Wendy Smith MBE

Wendy was awarded an MBE in the Queen’s New Year’s Honours List in March 2018 for her outstanding contributions to oral health promotion and dental education in the South West.

With a background in teaching, training and health education, Wendy has worked in the education and community sector for more than 25 years. Her role as Community Engagement Lead at Well Connected, draws together this experience with her knowledge and passion for community engagement which has led to the development of a variety of projects and programmes. Her leadership has helped shape innovative partnerships between academic institutions, local organisations, and community groups.

She plays a pivotal role in designing and delivering programmes which impact on both wellbeing initiatives, research, Public and Patient Involvement, undergraduate and post graduate education. She has led a wide range of programmes; from interprofessional learning experiences to award-winning oral health themed community projects.

Wendy is keen to share good practice; she has presented at both national and international conferences and is co-author for several articles; check out the most recent ones here:

Dental student resilience - developing strategies and behaviours | British Dental Journal

Exploring health conditions: learning beyond the textbook

Known for her authentic and empathetic leadership style, Wendy brings humour, compassion, and strategic insight to every project.