Joanna Chowdhury – graduating Master of Public Health (MPH) student and two-time COSSPP alumna – was named Northwest Regional Health Manager for Special Olympics Florida.
In this position, Chowdhury works closely with clinicians and students, training them to support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This role is hands-on and collaborative, supporting work with volunteers for health education classes at partnered community facilities and coordinating noninvasive health screenings at sporting events and partner sites.
“What makes this role so special is that I get to do something I absolutely love — bridging the clinical side of healthcare with public health in a way that genuinely makes a difference,” Chowdhury said.
Chowdhury chose to attend FSU because of the Center for Academic Retention & Enhancement (CARE). CARE at FSU provides first-generation students with academic preparation and support through programming and advising to face unique challenges due to educational or economic circumstances.
“It was the deciding factor for me, and looking back, it completely shaped the trajectory of my education and career,” Chowdhury said. “CARE gave me access to resources I didn’t even realize I needed to be successful in college — life coaching, case management, university housing, and a support system that showed up for me consistently.”
Through CARE, Chowdhury learned about COSSPP’s Combined Pathways program, which allowed her to blend two of her interests — public health and social sciences — while saving time and money. The pathway helped her transition seamlessly from her dual bachelor’s degrees (B.S. Public Health and Interdisciplinary Social Science ’24) into the Master of Public Health (MPH) program, giving her a clear direction toward the field she now works in.
Chowdhury’s dual degree in ISS and public health shapes her understanding of both fields. Taking a variety of courses, such as urban and regional planning and public administration, influenced her perspective on policies that impact health care. “It taught me to view public health as a connected system where history, policy, and environment all shape outcomes” Chowdhury said.
The support from FSU shaped her academic and personal development. One professor, specifically, Ladanya Ramirez Surmeier, Ph.D., made a lasting impact during Chowdhury’s most difficult moments. Following the passing of her father, Dr. Ramirez Surmeier encouraged her to seek mental health support despite cultural stigma.
“She reminded me that I could not advocate for others if I was not willing to advocate for myself,” Chowdhury said. “Her advice became the missing piece in my healing.”
Chowdhury is and has been involved in several organizations and programs, including Lambda Theta Alpha Latin Sorority, Inc., CARE, FSU University Housing, and the Master of Public Health Student Association. These organizations have provided her with community, mentorship, friendships, and opportunities for professional development.
As graduation approaches in Fall 2025, Chowdhury hopes to continue advancing health equity and mentoring future public health professionals.
To learn more about each of Walker’s programs, click the following links: Master of Public Health and Interdisciplinary Social Science.