Desorae Giles-Smith was born and raised in Fort Lauderdale, Florida by her loving parents Leveorn and Laura Giles. Desorae Giles-Smith graduated with honors from Blanche Ely High School. She graduated from the University of Florida with a Bachelor’s Degree from the College of Journalism. She earned her Master’s Degree from Florida Atlantic University.

She began working for the City of Lauderhill after graduating from the University of Florida. She started as an Administrative Aide in the Mayor’s Office. She has worked in many positions of increasing responsibility at the City such as Administrative Manager, Human Resources and Risk Management Director, Assistant City Manager, and served as the first African American and first female Deputy City Manager. She currently serves as the City Manager in the City of Lauderhill.

She is member or has been a member of many organizations such as the International Personnel Management Association, Society for Human Resources Management, National Forum of Black Public Administrators, City of Fort Lauderdale Budget Committee, Fort Lauderdale Chapter of Jack and Jill, City of Fort Lauderdale Vision Committee, the Broward County Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, the North Broward County Chapter of the Links, NAACP, Mid-Town Business Association, Northwest Democratic Club, Lauderhill Boys and Girls Club (Served as President), Sistrunk Historical and Nature Preservation Society, Junior League of Fort Lauderdale, Fort Lauderdale Jack and Jill Nursery Board, and the Broward County Early Learning Coalition.

She has received several awards from the Girl Scouts of America, American Cancer Society, the Boys and Girls Clubs of Broward County, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. and the Fort Lauderdale Charmettes for her service to the community.

She is married to Senator Christopher L. Smith and has two wonderful sons, Christopher “Squirmy” Smith and Christian “Scrunchy” Smith.

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