Swathi Kannan serves as Events Director of the Freddie Ford Family Foundation. A junior at Washington University in St. Louis, Swathi is pursuing a double major in Psychology and Anthropology with a specialization in Global Health and a minor in Biology. She is a nationally certified Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) and a recipient of the prestigious Danforth Scholarship at WashU, an honor recognizing students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, leadership, and a commitment to serving others.

Swathi's passion for service is rooted in her commitment to uplifting underserved communities. As a Patient Care Technician at Barnes-Jewish Hospital, she works directly with patients, providing hands-on care and support while gaining valuable insight into the challenges individuals face within the healthcare
system. Her experiences at the bedside have deepened her commitment to advocating for vulnerable populations and expanding access to compassionate, equitable care.

Swathi is a passionate advocate for the autism community. She is dedicated to promoting understanding, acceptance, and inclusion, and to ensuring that people have the support, resources, and opportunities they need to thrive. She strongly believes that communities become stronger when every person is valued and able to participate fully.

Swathi is currently involved in research focused on Alzheimer's disease, contributing to efforts to better understand the mechanisms underlying neurodegeneration and cognitive decline. Her involvement in scientific research has further strengthened her dedication to advancing medical knowledge and improving patient outcomes. She hopes to bridge the gap between scientific discovery and meaningful community impact, ensuring that advancements in healthcare translate into inclusivity for all.

At the heart of Swathi's work is a passion for combining science, service, and advocacy to create lasting positive change. Through her involvement with the Freddie Ford Family Foundation, she strives to empower others, strengthen community relationships, and inspire a shared commitment to service.