Karen Sigmon-Smith, MPH, CHLC

In this Director role, Karen designs, directs, and manages initiatives, policies, and processes that drive innovation and partnerships to accelerate the widespread adoption of functional medicine and the transformation of healthcare.  Karen holds both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in public health from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.  She has a series of certifications, trainings, and awards, including the Triad Business Journal’s Businesswoman of the Year 2021, Certified Holistic Life Coach, Certified Wellness Coach, and Certified Yoga Instructor. Karen brings to this role a wealth of experience with local government, large healthcare systems, and academic medical institutions. Her work has focused on building alliances with non-traditional partners to improve population health and address social determinants in marginalized populations. 

Karen is a native North Carolinian and she bleeds Tarheel blue. She can often be found playing golf, kayaking, hiking in the mountains, or reading a good book on a rock by a waterfall. She is an avid traveler and enjoys exploring other cultures, traditions, and food. Her husband is retired from both the US Army and local law enforcement. They enjoy rides on his Harley and spending time together with their son, Jayden, and pit bull, Scooby.