Dhuha has lived in Ames for over 22 years. Her father's occupation as a university professor allowed her to travel and live in many different parts of the world while growing up. She graduated high school from Saudi Arabia and then moved to Qatar where she attended Qatar University and graduated with a BS degree in Biomedical Sciences/Analytical Chemistry. Dhuha moved to Ames in 1991 to attend Iowa State University where she received both her MS and PhD degrees in Animal Physiology. She is one of 5 siblings who all attended and graduated ISU with a variety of degrees and specialties.
Dhuha worked as a research scientist at the USDA's National Animal Disease Center and at the Department of Biomedical Sciences at ISU before deciding to become a stay at home Mom in 2002.
Besides her passion for science, Dhuha has always been interested in women's issues, education and promoting equality. She has served as a volunteer at ACCESS and as a member on the YWCA board. Dhuha has given dozens of lectures and talks to promote understanding of women in the Arab and Muslim worlds. She is currently involved in organizing efforts to aid Syrian war refugees.
Dhuha met her husband, Omar Smadi, while attending ISU. Omar was a graduate student in the civil engineering graduate program when they first met. He is currently an adjunct professor in the Department of Civil Engineering and a Research Scientist at the Institute for Transportation at Iowa State University. Dhuha is currently a full time mom to their 3 daughters; Sura, Seema and Seera, all students at Gilbert (10th, 8th, and 5th grade respectively). She enjoys volunteering in the classroom and going on field trips. Dhuha has served on the District Advisory Committee (DAC) and the Gilbert calendar committee. Dhuha has been involved in organizing the PTO carnival for the last 4 years as well as being part of the GEF Rock Hop live auction committee. She looks forward to being involved with supporting the districts efforts for many years to come.
