Anita Beijer, a University of Florida College of Public Health and Health Professions Master of Public Health student in social and behavioral sciences, is the recipient of a Fighter Scholarship from the Quell Foundation, a nonprofit organization dedicated to eliminating the stigma surrounding mental illness by fostering open dialogue and expanding access to education, support and resources.
Beijer is among 40 students nationwide to receive Quell Foundation scholarships for the 2025-2026 year. The Fighter Scholarship is awarded to select high school seniors or current undergraduate or graduate students who are being treated for a diagnosed mental health condition.
“The Fighter Scholarship honors individuals with lived experience who are making a difference, and Anita embodies that mission fully,” said Lindsey King, Ph.D., M.P.H., a clinical associate professor and director of the college’s social and behavioral sciences program. “We’re so proud of her accomplishments and the impact she continues to make both on campus and beyond by bridging public health and medicine in meaningful, community-centered ways.”
Beijer’s efforts to advance mental health and wellbeing include serving as a research assistant at UF Health Florida Recovery Center, an addiction treatment facility. She is a volunteer with Eat Breathe Thrive, a nonprofit focused on helping people recover from eating disorders and body image challenges, and she is a founding team member of IfYoureReadingThis at UF. IfYoureReadingThis is a mental health community for students that promotes social support networks.
“Anita is an exceptional student who has demonstrated remarkable tenacity in the face of significant adversity, all while maintaining a strong academic performance,” said Brittney Dixon-Daniel, Ph.D., M.P.H., a clinical assistant professor and director of the Bachelor of Public Health program. “She is passionate about mental health and offers support to others who may be navigating similar challenges. Anita exemplifies the spirit and qualifications of the Quell Foundation Fighter Scholarship through her courage, compassion and commitment to making a difference.”