Kem Smith

Kem Smith earned a high school diploma from Hazelwood Central High School. She earned graduate degrees from Fontbonne University in 2001 and Lindenwood University in 2016. She also graduated from National University in 2022. Her career experience includes working as a teacher.[1]

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Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

Dr. Kem Smith is a multi-passionate writer, artist, actress, comedian, and educator from St. Louis, Missouri. In addition to her artistic endeavors, Dr. Kem proudly serves as an English teacher, inspiring and guiding her students to embrace the power of language. She has a Master of Arts degree from Fontbonne University, a Master of Fine Arts degree from Lindenwood University, and a Doctorate in Higher Education Administration Leadership. Dr. Kem combines her passion for education with her expertise in leadership to make a meaningful impact in the academic realm. To continue her passion and dedication to education, in February 2024, Dr. Kem declared her Candidacy for Missouri State Representative District 68 learn more at DrkemforMO.com or KemSmith.com.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

Bring more state economic dollars to North St. Louis County.Support Unions and collaborate with county officials to create new jobs.Secure the necessary resources for our public schools to adequately educate our children.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Education, economic development, women's reproductive rights, health care equality, labor and economic development, and small business growth.

Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy?

Shirley Chisholm Documentary

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

An elected official should be a listener and a researcher. It's important to be informed and ready to make smart decisions on behalf of the constituents she serves.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

The core responsibilites are attendance, participation, preparation, and cooperation.

What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?

Desert Storm wasn't the first but I remember being 17 and hearing about people going to war. Listening to my parents discuss Ronald Regan in the 1980's was the first time I recall being considered about politics impacting Americans.

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

My first real job was at Halls Ferry 14 Cine in North St. Louis County. I worked there for the summer when I was 16 years old.

What do you believe is the ideal relationship between the governor and state legislature?

The ideal relationship between the governor and state legislature should be professional and progressive. Both branches need to understand their role and keep the will of the people before any personal gain.

What do you perceive to be your state's greatest challenges over the next decade?

Our state's greatest challenge is unity. We need to be so strong that one cannot fall since all the others are holding her up. We have to commit to our motto, "Let the welfare of the people be the supreme law."

Do you believe that it’s beneficial for state legislators to have previous experience in government or politics?

Yes, it is beneficial to bring experience to any field. It is just as important to be coachable.

Do you believe it’s beneficial to build relationships with other legislators? Please explain your answer.

I believe in the power of building relationships with legislators. A fundamental key to effective teaching and learning is cooperative team work.

Is there a particular legislator, past or present, whom you want to model yourself after?

I am inspired by Shirley Chisholm and John Lewis.

Are you interested in running for a different political office (for example, the U.S. Congress or governor) in the future?

I am interested in my current campaign. I have to focus on the now.

What committees interest you?

Elementary and Secondary Education, Higher Education, Tourism, and Economic Development.

What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?

There should be financial transparency in government and accountability for all.