About Kathleen Anne Smith
Hello, and welcome.
My name is Kathleen Anne Smith, and I am an author, advocate, and educator born with congenital cytomegalovirus (CMV)—the leading infectious cause of congenital disabilities in the United States.
I am the author of Through Their Eyes and Mine: A Story of CMV, Deafness, and Hope, a memoir that blends lived experience, education, and advocacy. In the book, I share my journey growing up Deaf due to CMV, the educational path I navigated, and why CMV awareness, prevention, and early education matter deeply.
Leadership & Advocacy
I currently serve as President of the Minnesota Association of Deaf Citizens (2025–2027) and as Chair of the Minnesota Community Alliance for the National CMV Foundation. Through my work, I partner with families, healthcare providers, educators, and advocates to raise awareness about CMV and support prevention and education efforts.
Personal Life
I am also a single mother to a teenage son who is a CODA (Child of a Deaf Adult), and my advocacy is grounded in both lived experience and community leadership.