Arkansas Nurse Practitioner Association Member Spotlight: Brittany Smith, MSN, APRN, FNP-C

Each week, we shine a spotlight on one of our outstanding members to celebrate the individuals who make ANPA special. This week, we are pleased to feature Brittany Smith, MSN, APRN, FNP-C. Thank you, Brittany, for being such a valued part of our community and  your continued support. Take a moment to read her interview responses and get to know her better!

I have been an Advanced Practice Registered Nurse for four years, and have devoted my career to caring for people with compassion, respect, and understanding. What inspired me most to become an APRN was the opportunity to help others on a deeper level — not only by treating illness, but by truly connecting with patients and guiding them toward better health. I believe that knowledge is one of the most powerful tools in healthcare, and I’m passionate about educating and empowering individuals to take charge of their well-being. My greatest reward is knowing I’ve made a difference in someone’s life by providing the care, support, and guidance they deserve.

What is your background and how did you develop your skill set?
For the past four years, I’ve worked as an APRN in urgent care, providing compassionate care and helping patients feel supported and informed about their health. My nursing career spans more than 14 years, including experience in the emergency department and intensive care unit, where I cared for patients during some of their most critical moments. One of the most meaningful parts of my journey was serving as a travel nurse in New York City during the height of the COVID-19 crisis — an experience that strengthened my dedication to caring for others and deepened my passion for making a difference.

What is your biggest success to date?
One of my proudest accomplishments has been being named “Best of the Best” Urgent Care in Northwest Arkansas in 2024. This recognition means so much to me because it reflects the trust and appreciation of the patients and community I care so deeply about.

What has been your biggest challenge?
One of the greatest challenges has been learning to balance my calling as a healthcare provider with being a mom. In January, my 4-year-old son was diagnosed with leukemia, and our world changed overnight. Walking through this journey alongside him has been the hardest thing I’ve ever faced, yet it has also given me a deeper understanding of strength, love, and resilience. It’s taught me what it truly means to show up for others — not just as a nurse, but as a human being. This experience has deepened my compassion for every patient and family I care for, because I know firsthand how much kindness, understanding, and support can mean during life’s most difficult moments.

What inspires you to hit the ground running each morning?
What inspires me to hit the ground running every morning is my family — they are truly my heart and my “why.” I want my children to grow up seeing the value of hard work, strength, and compassion, and to know that with determination, anything is possible. Providing for them and creating a life full of love and opportunity motivates me every single day. My patients also inspire me, knowing that I have the chance to make a difference in someone’s life — to support them, care for them, and walk beside them in their health journey — gives me a deep sense of purpose. It’s what drives me to give my very best every day.

What’s an interesting fact about you that most people don’t know?
An interesting and fun part of my story, I was crowned the 50th Annual Lincoln, Arkansas Rodeo Queen in 2003! I grew up rodeoing all through high school, and those experiences taught me grit, determination, and how to hold on tight — lessons that still guide me today in both life and healthcare. It’s a chapter of my past that I’m proud of and one that shaped the hardworking, passionate person I am today.

When you’re not working, what is your favorite thing to do?
When I’m not caring for patients, you’ll almost always find me with my family — my husband, our 4-year-old son, and our 1-year-old daughter. We’re very close with our parents and siblings too, and family time is truly the heart of my life. Some of our favorite memories are made outdoors — spending weekends at the lake, fishing, and camping together. Those moments mean everything to me and keep me grounded, reminding me what life is really all about.

Congratulations, Brittany!

****Do you know a NP who should be featured or do you want to be featured on our page? Follow this link and help us celebrate the great Nurse Practitioners across Arkansas by sharing the link to complete an interview.

Also, we’d love to hear about NPs making an impact in your area! Share their recognition with us at webmaster@anpassociation.org, so we can help shine a spotlight on their incredible achievements!