Fred Smith Sr. is originally from Oconee County, Georgia. He earned a bachelor’s degree in sociology from Paine College and a master’s degree in journalism and mass communications from the University of Georgia. Fred is a co-founder of the Athens Area Black History Bowl and has served on the board of the Athens Historical Society. Fred also previously served as the local branch president of The National Association of the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP).

This is Fred's first time running for public office.

Fred currently serves as executive director of the East Athens Development Corporation, a role he assumed after previously serving as interim executive director. Fred has previously worked as district director, regional representative in the Labor Department’s Career Development Division, regional administrator and head of the Georgia Department of Community Affairs’ Family Self-Sufficiency Program in Atlanta.