Kennedy Hewitt is making significant strides in enhancing public health accessibility through her community service and leadership initiatives in Tallahassee, Florida. As a graduate and teaching assistant in the College of Social Sciences and Public Policy at Florida State University (FSU), her outreach efforts have successfully connected students and residents to vital health resources, fostering a culture of health equity.
Hewitt has played a pivotal role in organizing the Public Health Professions Conference, which attracted over 300 students and professionals from across Florida. This event was designed to facilitate the exchange of ideas and networking among public health advocates. By managing various aspects of the conference, including finances and outreach, she has honed her leadership and organizational skills, vital for her career in public health.
Commitment to Community Service
In addition to her academic responsibilities, Hewitt is actively involved in the Tallahassee community. Through her work with Ability 1st, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting individuals with disabilities, she has contributed to the construction of wheelchair ramps, significantly improving accessibility in the area. Furthermore, she collaborated with the Department of Urban & Regional Planning to develop a cultural resource center for the Frenchtown community. This project embodies her commitment to community-based planning and inclusive public health initiatives.
Hewitt’s decision to attend Florida State University stemmed from a desire for personal and academic growth. “The welcoming community and opportunities for growth immediately stood out to me. FSU’s commitment to innovation, leadership, and service inspired me to push myself and pursue my passions,” she explains. Her journey from undergraduate studies to pursuing a Master of Public Health has equipped her with the tools necessary to advocate for health equity and community well-being.
Academic and Professional Development
Hewitt’s academic journey has been marked by valuable experiences that have shaped her professional skills. Serving on the planning team for FSU’s annual Public Health Professions Conference has enhanced her leadership and collaboration abilities. She emphasizes that the experience taught her the importance of teamwork in public health education, essential for addressing complex health challenges.
Her role at the Florida Department of Health as a data analyst in the STD Surveillance section allowed her to conduct a comprehensive ten-year epidemiological study on congenital syphilis trends across Florida. This research examined patterns related to race, ethnicity, and potential preventable factors, contributing to a deeper understanding of public health issues in the state.
Hewitt’s commitment to volunteerism is evident in her position as treasurer of the Master of Public Health Student Association, where she manages budgets and coordinates various events aimed at professional development. These roles reflect her dedication to fostering accessibility and inclusion while strengthening her leadership capabilities.
Through her experiences, Hewitt has witnessed the impact of her work on the Tallahassee community. As a graduate assistant, she collaborated with the accreditation coordinator to collect data that supports the continuous improvement of FSU’s public health programs. This effort ensures future students benefit from a rigorous academic environment.
In her teaching assistant role, she has created an inclusive learning atmosphere for undergraduate students, helping them navigate complex public health concepts. Her mentorship fosters academic growth and professional development, reinforcing the ties between FSU and the local community.
Hewitt’s multifaceted involvement showcases her commitment to advancing education, equity, and public service, aligning with FSU’s core values. Her initiatives are paving the way for a healthier, more inclusive future for the Tallahassee community.
