Dr. Liris Smith holds two undergraduate degrees from the University of Saskatchewan, a baccalaureate of science (Anatomy), and a baccalaureate in Physical Therapy. Liris completed her master’s degree in Physical Therapy at the University of Alberta in 1997. She spent 27 years working as a physical therapist, supervisor, manager and director of care in the Continuing Care Division of Yukon Government. In 2018, Liris resigned from YG to dedicate her time to her PhD studies, graduating in 2021 with a PhD in Health Sciences from the College of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan. Liris has remained active in her profession, representing the territory on national committees for the Canadian physiotherapy association, and received one of 100 Centenary Medals of Honor in 2021 for her dedication to the profession.
Liris has been a sessional instructor at YukonU (and Yukon College) for more than a decade, teaching courses such as Anatomy and Pathophysiology for the Practical Nursing program. She is committed to working in partnership with Yukon First Nations, and all citizens who received health care services in the newly formed Strategy for Patient Oriented Research (SPOR) unit. Liris and her husband have a son, daughter and granddaughter, all residing in Yukon. She enjoys music, handicrafts and outdoor pursuits, such as recreational running, hiking and biking.