After earning bachelor's and master's degrees in nursing and a doctorate in sociology, Smoyak became a faculty member at Rutgers University.

She has been the editor-in-chief of the Journal of Psychosocial Nursing and Mental Health Services since 1981.

Smoyak was appointed to oversee reform efforts at Greystone Park Psychiatric Hospital in New Jersey.

[1] Some of her most recent research examines the effects of energy drinks on college students.

[2] Smoyak received the 2011 Award for Distinguished Service from the American Psychiatric Nurses Association.