Gloria Smith is a public relations, advertising and promotions professional devoted to helping clients achieve specific marketing objectives and educational initiatives.

She learned to write so people read and react on Madison Avenue where she was an advertising copywriter promoting packaged goods such as L'eggs Pantyhose, Cheerios and Duracell Batteries, as well as not-for-profit organizations such as the Boys and Girls Clubs of America.

From a position as an award-winning fashion writer on the Warner's Lingerie account for Wells, Rich, Greene - a creative advertising boutique - she moved into the public relations arena in the early 1990's, most notably for KLM Royal Dutch Airlines. Her contributions to Native Americans, Beyond the Legends/Behind the myths, a production presented by the Turner Broadcast System, were recognized with a Corporate Identity Award.

As community relations director for an affiliate of the United Cerebral Palsy Association, Ms. Smith gained recognition for the organization while encouraging donations. Contributions to the not-for-profit organization tripled during her tenure and her writing for the association won her several local marketing awards. Today, she is responsible for media relations for the New York State Podiatric Medical Association (NYSPMA).

Also a freelance writer, Ms. Smith contributes articles frequently on a wide range of subjects from health to history and real estate. She is a columnist for the Hudson Valley Business Journal and the creator of Franchise Help Online, a monthly electronic newsletter, Ms. Smith often writes about franchise companies and diversity issues within the franchise community. Her articles are frequently cover stories for Franchising World magazine, the most respected publication serving the industry.