An introduction to Kathleen
Hello, I’m Kathleen Anne Smith.
I was born with congenital cytomegalovirus (CMV), a leading infectious cause of congenital disabilities in the United States. My experience growing up Deaf shaped my journey as an educator, advocate, community leader, and now author.
I wrote Through Their Eyes and Mine: A Story of CMV, Deafness, and Hope to share my story while helping others better understand CMV, Deafness, prevention, education, and the importance of supporting families.
leadership & advocacy
Kathleen currently serves as:
- President of the Minnesota Association of Deaf Citizens, 2025–2027
- Chair of the Minnesota Community Alliance for the National CMV Foundation
Through her advocacy, Kathleen connects with families, healthcare providers, educators, and community leaders to increase CMV awareness and strengthen education and prevention efforts.
She is also a single mother to a teenage CODA (Child of a Deaf Adult), bringing both personal and community perspectives to her advocacy.
PRESENTATIONS
Lived experience. Education. Advocacy.
Kathleen brings a unique perspective to conversations about congenital CMV, Deafness, education, and community advocacy.
Her presentations combine personal storytelling with practical, evidence-based information that helps audiences understand both the human experience and the broader impact of congenital CMV.
PRESENTATION topics
Kathleen can present about:
- CMV awareness and prevention
- Early diagnosis and intervention
- Supporting individuals and families affected by CMV
- Deaf education and advocacy
- Lived experience with congenital CMV
- Community leadership and empowerment
previous presentations
Kathleen has presented at professional and community events, including:
- Early Hearing Detection and Intervention (EHDI) Conference — Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- National CMV Conference — University of Minnesota
- National Association of the Deaf 58th Biennial Conference — San Francisco, California
Her audiences have included families, healthcare professionals, audiologists, educators, advocates, and community leaders.
invite kathleen to present
Bringing CMV Awareness, Deaf Education, and Advocacy to Communities Worldwide
Kathleen A. Smith is a Deaf author, educator, public speaker, and congenital cytomegalovirus (CMV) advocate dedicated to raising awareness, sharing lived experiences, and inspiring meaningful change.
As a recipient of the 2026 Silent Garden Distinguished Lecturer recognition from California State University, Fresno, Kathleen brings a unique perspective that combines her personal journey with congenital CMV, professional experience in Deaf education, and leadership in community advocacy.
Kathleen welcomes opportunities to collaborate with organizations, educators, healthcare professionals, and community leaders to increase understanding of congenital CMV and promote inclusion and accessibility.
Kathleen is available for:
- National and international conferences
- Professional development and educational training
- Healthcare and public health presentations
- Deaf and Hard of Hearing community events
- Parent and family support organizations
- University and college guest lectures
- Panel discussions and advocacy events
- Media interviews and virtual presentations
- Book signings and author events
Presentations are available throughout the United States and internationally, including the United Kingdom, either in person or virtually.
Interested in inviting Kathleen to speak?
Complete the presentation inquiry form to share information about your event, organization, and preferred dates.
“Every child born with congenital CMV impacts the lives of those around them in their own unique way. Their diagnosis does not define who they are — their potential does.”
Kathleen Smith