Our Team
Dr. Gregory Smith, Founder, CEO, Scientific Advisor
Gregory Smith, MD, MPH, earned his medical degree from Rush Medical School in Chicago and a Master of Public Health from Harvard University. He completed his residency in Preventive Medicine at Walter Reed Army Medical Center. Following his service as a Major in the US Army, Dr. Smith has practiced medicine in California, Georgia, and Florida for over 35 years. Since his initial training in medical cannabis in California in 2000, he has been at the forefront of research on cannabinoid medications. Additionally, he directed a Tropical Medicine program at Tulane University.
Dr. Smith currently serves as Medical Advisor to several medical cannabis companies and as Scientific Advisor and Brand Ambassador for numerous plant-based and nutraceutical product lines. To further advance research, development, and education within the plant-based medicine industry, he founded NeX Therapeutics. A dedicated traveler, Dr. Smith frequently lectures at medical conferences around the world. He is also a prolific author, with over a dozen peer-reviewed medical publications, multiple cannabis education books, two medical textbooks, and a novel to his name.
Rae Borch, Chief Innovations Officer
Originally from Maine, Rae graduated from Eckerd College with a Bachelor of Arts in Psychology and a minor in Journalism. During her time at Eckerd, she served on the Editorial Board of the student newspaper, The Current, demonstrating a commitment to journalistic integrity and excellence for which she was awarded “Best Off-Campus Op-Ed” in 2017. She began her professional journey as General Manager of GLS Inc. in 2019, working closely alongside Dr. Smith on a variety of research projects before making her way up to a senior role at NeX Therapeutics.
As Chief Innovations Officer at NeX, she is committed to the constant improvement and optimization of systems and processes within the company. Her attention to detail and pursuit of excellence extends across all aspects of the company, from research to product design to marketing. Through her work at NeX and other endeavors, Rae seeks to bring greater awareness to the mind-body connection, with particular emphasis on how it can be understood through a scientific lens. Soon to be a Certified Yoga Instructor and Ayurvedic Medicine Specialist through the Yoga Alliance, Rae is passionate about harnessing the healing power of plants and alternative therapeutic modalities to help people look and feel their best.
Katy Kasper, Chief Communications Officer
Katy leads the strategic direction and execution of all communication initiatives. With over six years of experience in marketing, and a bachelor’s degree in communications from the University of South Florida, Katy has honed her skills in developing and implementing comprehensive communication strategies that align with our company's goals and objectives. Notably, Katy is a distinguished member of the foremost professional fraternity for men and women, Delta Sigma Pi; this affiliation reflects her commitment to excellence, professionalism, and continuous learning within the field of marketing and business.
Furthermore, Katy is currently advancing her career by pursuing a certification in life coaching, demonstrating a commitment to personal and professional development. Driven by a passion for excellence, Katy is committed to leveraging communication as a strategic tool to drive business growth and enhance brand equity. Her leadership and vision help in positioning NeX Therapeutics as a leader in its industry, fostering trust and credibility with both internal and external audiences.
Shannon Powell, Chief Research Officer
Shannon M. Powell, WTS, from Scranton, PA, and presently calls Tampa, FL, home. With a foundation in cosmetology from the esteemed Paul Mitchell School and specialized training in trichology from The World Trichology Society, Shannon brings a wealth of knowledge to her work. A seasoned professional in both cosmetology and trichology, Shannon's expertise spans the spectrum of beauty industry products and the intricate science of hair and scalp health. Armed with the ability to diagnose and treat a myriad of hair and scalp conditions, from alopecia to dandruff, Shannon stands as a trusted authority in the field.
In 2022, Shannon assumed the role of Chief Research Officer at NeX Therapeutics, spearheading initiatives aimed at advancing scientific knowledge in the cosmetic and wellness sectors. With publications in esteemed medical journals commencing in early 2024, Shannon continues to elevate the standards of medical research and shape the future of the cosmetic and wellness industries.