At the College of Social Sciences and Public Policy, we believe students should get more than a degree during their time at FSU. That’s why we encourage them to engage in experiences beyond the classroom: to discover their passions, build lasting connections, and prepare for meaningful careers after graduation.
This year, thanks to the generosity of our alumni, faculty, staff, and friends, we’re proud to share that we not only reached our fundraising goal for FSU’s 2025 Great Give—we exceeded it.
Together, we raised $5,450 for our signature initiative: The Future is Made in Bellamy.
This initiative enhances our students’ academic journeys by funding transformational opportunities outside of regular coursework—things like undergraduate research, service-learning, leadership training, and community engagement projects.
These are the kinds of experiences that develop confidence, leadership skills, and career clarity that can’t be fully supported by State of Florida funds alone.
Originally launched under the leadership of Dean Emeritus David Rasmussen, Ph.D. (Dean, 2003–2016), The Future is Made in Bellamy continues to reflect the College’s core mission: preparing students to enter the workforce with confidence, contribute meaningfully to their communities, and tackle real-world problems with insight, skill, and purpose.
“Through this initiative, our students excel outside of their regular coursework by engaging with the world community beyond campus,” said Dean Tim Chapin. “They gain unique opportunities for research, service, and experience that transform their awareness and expand their future life and career options.”
Because of the support of our community, our students are not only thriving academically, but also growing into resilient, thoughtful leaders. Thank you for helping them succeed — both at FSU and far beyond.
Here are just a few examples of the incredible experiences our students are gaining outside the classroom through their involvement with student organizations at FSU.
Student Leadership Council (SLC)
The College of Social Sciences and Public Policy Student Leadership Council (COSSPP SLC) is made up of student leaders dedicated to enhancing the lives of students within the college and fostering community. Through its membership, mentorship program, community service, professional opportunities, and network, the council aims to bring out the best in COSSPP students. In collaboration with Dean Chapin and the college’s leadership, the SLC has seen great success in event turnout, membership, and recognition across the university this year.
Grounded in its three core values—leadership, service, and mentorship—the SLC had 60 exemplary members representing majors across the college. Together, they hosted 48 events during the year. Signature programs included bringing Frother’s Daughter to Bellamy’s steps for free coffee and hosting the 11th annual Agree to Disagree, which provided a safe, engaging space for civil discourse. The council also launched new traditions, such as a formal induction ceremony for selected members.
New professional programming brought out hundreds of students and centered on the 2024 election in the fall and the Florida Legislative Session in the spring. Highlights included Breakdown the Ballot, featuring election law attorneys who discussed voting procedures and ballot language, and Voterfest, an interactive event with performances, tabling, and a scavenger hunt encouraging students to vote early at the Union. In the spring, the SLC hosted its first Day at the Capitol, bringing 30 members to meet with representatives, senators, and staff for an inside look at Florida’s legislative process. In partnership with the FSU College of Law, the council also organized a law student panel with LSAT prep giveaways and a campus tour.
The SLC expanded its philanthropic efforts by hosting Florida’s first Winter Walk to raise funds and awareness about homelessness. The Tallahassee event drew more than 50 participants and raised $1,500 for the Kearney Center. Members also participated in Relay for Life to support the American Cancer Society, fundraising through share-it nights, candy grams, a Just Dance event, and a kickball tournament. Many members highlighted share-it nights after General Body Meetings as favorite opportunities for bonding.
The SLC’s mentorship program expanded college-wide this year, with more than 60 participants. Activities included a speed-friending kickoff, reveal event, bowling night, and other opportunities for connection. To close the year, the council hosted its annual gala honoring student dedication, graduating seniors, and the Officer Board. Their advisor, Tonja Guilford, was recognized by FSU Student Organizations and Involvement as Advisor of the Year.
For more information on SLC events or how to apply, visit @fsucossppslc on Instagram.
Women’s Leadership Network (WLN)
The COSSPP Women’s Leadership Network (WLN) works to develop the next generation of leaders and cultivate a supportive community of women interested in sharing their expertise with others. Open to all COSSPP students, WLN programming enhances professional networks, sharpens executive skills, and strengthens connections between alumni and students.
This year, the WLN hosted six events in its Alumna Speaker Series, giving students the chance to hear directly from COSSPP graduates about their paths to leadership and success. Additional professional development programming included a LinkedIn workshop, a fellowship presentation, and a study abroad workshop, all designed to help students grow beyond the classroom.
Social events such as a Tie-Dye Social and a Paint-a-Pot Social encouraged members to build both professional relationships and personal friendships. In Spring 2025, the WLN also organized a luncheon and leadership lecture with COSSPP Distinguished Alumna Kathy Mears (B.S. Sociology ’03, M.P.A. ’11), assistant commissioner of agriculture for the State of Florida. Mears encouraged students to face challenges with confidence and to embrace mistakes as opportunities for growth.
Throughout the year, the WLN also offered regular “Refresh & Refuel” work sessions, creating a welcoming space for interdisciplinary connection and collaboration.
Master’s in Applied American Politics and Policy Association (MAAPPA)
The Master’s in Applied American Politics and Policy Association (MAAPPA) provides students with opportunities for engagement, professional development, and leadership within applied politics and policy.
This past November, MAAPPA elected a new executive board, kicking off a year of milestones. Since then, the program has celebrated the graduation of 29 students across the Fall 2024 and Spring 2025 semesters and welcomed 54 new students into the program.
In February, MAAPPA debuted a new tradition: the Legislative Session Kickoff. The inaugural event brought together students, professors, alumni, and friends for an evening of food, fellowship, and live music by House of Rock.
In March, the annual MAAPP at the Cap event immersed students in Florida’s legislative process. The day featured a keynote by State Representative and FSU alumna Hillary Cassel, as well as networking opportunities with MAAPP alumni working in politics and policy. Students connected with professionals through lunch, guest lectures, and a reception.
In April, MAAPPA continued its beloved Profs and Pours tradition, an annual fundraiser at Madison Social where faculty step behind the bar to serve drinks and raise funds while building connections with students.
Looking ahead, 2025 marks the 25th anniversary of the MAAPP program. With a network of more than 600 alumni nationwide, MAAPPA will celebrate this milestone with special events in Tallahassee and opportunities for alumni to reconnect with the program.
Stay connected with MAAPPA on Instagram @FloridaStateMAAPP and X @FSUMAAPPprogram.
Master of Public Health Student Association (MPHSA)
The mission of the Master of Public Health Student Association (MPHSA) is to increase awareness of public health concerns and policies while enhancing the health of FSU students, faculty, and the surrounding community. Each year, MPHSA engages graduate students through health-related activities, volunteer opportunities, networking events, professional seminars, and its signature Public Health Professions Conference.
Tragically, this year’s conference, scheduled for April 19 in the FSU Ballrooms, was cancelled following the violent events on campus two days earlier. While saddened by this senseless act, MPHSA recognizes the hard work, resources, and dedication that went into planning the 3rd annual conference, themed “Health Advocacy and Action: Uniting Experts and Advocates to Drive Impactful Change in Public Health.” The organization remains committed to this mission and looks forward to hosting the next conference in Spring 2026. As members emphasized: We Are FSU Strong.
Beyond the conference, MPHSA organized two socials to strengthen fellowship among students, along with seminars on mental health and sexual health in collaboration with the Center for Health Advocacy & Wellness. Members also participated in opioid and breast cancer awareness workshops with the Big Bend Area Health Education Center, and a Career Pathways Seminar featuring an alumni panel.
Service remained a central focus, with students volunteering at Grace Mission to serve meals in the Frenchtown community and partnering with Ability 1st to build accessibility ramps that support independent living for people with disabilities. Students also took part in a Capitol field trip during Florida’s legislative session, gaining firsthand insight into the policymaking process.
Finally, MPHSA celebrated graduating students with its traditional hooding ceremony each semester—congratulations to the newest alumni of the program!
Through these organizations and many more, COSSPP students are expanding their learning, building professional networks, and preparing to become leaders in their fields.
To explore all student organizations in the college, visit cosspp.fsu.edu/get-involved/student-organizations.
For frequent updates and opportunities reposted from our student groups, follow us on social media, particularly on Instagram @FSUCOSSPP for these updates.
For more information about how to make the most out of your time while you’re here, visit cosspp.fsu.edu/get-involved.