Linda Smith received a Bachelor's degree in Home Economics and a Master's of Education degree from the University of Illinois in 1974 and 1983, respectively.

She began her Extension career as the Christian County Youth Advisor in 1974 and continued working with 4-H and youth programming until 1986 when she became the Christian County Home Economics Advisor. In 1992 she accepted her present position as Christian County Extension Director.

Smith is a member of the Illinois Extension Association of Family and Consumer Sciences (IEAFCS), and Epsilon Sigma Phi (ESP). She was the recipient of the Extension Outstanding Program Award in 1983 and the M. S. Williams Award for Outstanding Program, as well.