Rikki Smith- Wilson

Rikki Smith Wilson is the President & CEO (cofounder) of Smithwood Medical Institute, LLC (SMI) is a career school that provides an excellent educational experience for those seeking to attain certifications and training for healthcare careers.

As a native of Bay City, Texas, Rikki is a graduate of The University of Texas at Austin where she achieved her Bachelor of Science in Business while double minoring in Corporate Communications and Marketing from the Red McCombs School of Business. In order to further her education, she graduated from the University of St. Thomas & Texas Woman's University with her Master’s in Business Administration and Healthcare Administration. Rikki also is a Texas Educator with a Generalist EC-8 certification. During her third year of teaching she became the leader of her grade level cluster. She has thoroughly enjoyed the connection, interaction, and the impact that she has been able to have on her students.

In addition to her education, Rikki plays an active role within Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc, Houston Area Urban League Young Professionals, Texas Exes, Andrew Smith Jr. Foundation, Momentum Pac, Lakewood Dance Ministry/Church, and Reign Dance Company. Her passion and commitment for policy, politics, and being a part of the movement has been evident as she has participated in helping MPAC actively engage our peers on what is happening in our city’s government.

Also, within the community she has mentored young girls, and began a charitable 501c3 -The Andrew Smith Jr. Foundation, in honor of her late brother which provides scholarships to high school students.

After graduating from UT, Rikki was hired by The Houston Chronicle as an Advertising Executive who managed local and national advertising campaigns dollars. She was blessed to be named as the Ambassador recipient by the Galleria Chamber, awarded the Quality Performance Publisher’s Club award, “The Most Creative Approach” in representation of the Houston Chronicle ad division.