Leah Foster Smith, MSN, APRN, CNN-NP, FNKF, FANNA, FAANP
Director of Advanced Practice Providers; Chief Education Officer, Metrolina Nephrology Associates; Interactive Nephrology
Leah Foster Smith, MSN, APRN, CNN-NP, FNKF, FANNA, FAANP is a nationally recognized nephrology nurse practitioner, educator, and thought leader with 24 years of advanced practice experience. She serves as Education Chair for the NKF Council of Advanced Practice Providers (CAPP), NKF NC Medical Advisory Board Member, and Past Chair of the NKF CAPP Executive Committee.
As Director of APPs at Metrolina Nephrology Associates, Leah leads the largest nephrology APP team in the country and created one of the first APP-led CKD clinics, now serving over 30,000 patients. She co-founded Interactive Nephrology, creating two nationally accredited nephrology APP training programs, Ready for Rounds and Cleared for Clinic, addressing critical gaps in APP onboarding and workforce development nationwide.
She is one of few nephrology NPs to hold Fellow status in three national organizations: American Association of Nurse Practitioners (FAANP), American Nephrology Nurses Association (FANNA), and National Kidney Foundation (FNKF). Leah serves in leadership roles within ANNA, ASN, NKF, and RPA.
A sought-after speaker with over 80 invited lectures, Leah is a published author and editor for core nephrology texts. Her career reflects a sustained commitment to leadership and innovation, advancing the role of APPs and shaping the future of nephrology practice.
Leah Foster Smith is transforming nephrology care by advancing APP leadership, education, and innovative clinical practice for thousands of patients nationwide.