Martez Smith is a doctoral candidate in Nursing and Health Science at the University of Rochester School of Nursing. He holds a Bachelor of Social Work from Ohio State University and a Master of Social Work from Long Island University Brooklyn. His research interests include addressing racial, sexual and gender minority health disparities through community-driven, asset-based interventions. In addition to conducting research, Martez works alongside a nationwide cadre of activists, organizing for social justice with the Keeping Ballroom Community Alive Network (KBCAN), which he co-founded in 2015.

Since 2010, Martez has worked on numerous health and social welfare initiatives, starting as a HIV case management intern in his hometown of Columbus, Ohio. Martez has since worked as a HIV test counselor, research assistant/coordinator on HIV and sexual health studies, consultant on national and state HIV awareness campaigns, and aided with the startup of the Office of Supportive/Affordable Housing and Services (OSAHS), an innovative initiative to procure 15,000 units of supportive housing in NYC. These experiences led to his role as the Community Co-Chair of the Ending The Epidemic Task Force Black MSM Subcommittee, leading the implementation of recommendations to improve HIV care continuum outcomes for Black MSM across New York State.

In his spare time, Martez enjoys traveling, reading, cooking and spending time with family. He has also participated in the house/ballroom community since 2009, currently a member of the House of Xclusive-Lanvin in mainstream ballroom and a member of the House of Hua Mulan in Kiki ballroom.

Brooklyn, NY – University of Rochester - One-Year Full-Time 2020 HIV League Scholar ($3,500)