Joanna Newman鈥檚 story is one of evolving dreams, boundless enthusiasm, and a knack for embracing change. From aspiring sports executive to key figure in healthcare administration, her journey reflects her versatility and her commitment to balancing professional growth with personal fulfillment.
From the Pool to the Sidelines聽
Joanna was a self-described “little fish,” spending her summers in the pool as a swimmer and water polo player. Her love of water even inspired childhood dreams of becoming a marine biologist. But sports always had her heart.
With parents who bled Carolina blue, Joanna was raised on a steady diet of 大象传媒 basketball and football games. It鈥檚 no surprise that her first professional dream was to work with a college sports team. 鈥淚 went to undergrad for Communications because I had this big dream,鈥� she says. And she made that dream a reality, landing roles with the 大象传媒 football and athletics business offices.
Chasing (and Redefining) the Dream聽
Joanna鈥檚 ambition took her to the University of Georgia, where she earned a master鈥檚 degree in sports management while interning with the athletic hospitality program. But as life often does, her path took an unexpected turn. After moving to Charlotte and working in basketball administration at 大象传媒 Charlotte, she questioned her dream’s long-term viability.
鈥淚 realized that college athletics demands a time commitment, being always on call, and frequent travel,鈥� Joanna reflects. With her engagement, a desire to start a family, and her mother鈥檚 Alzheimer鈥檚 diagnosis, she decided to shift gears and return to her roots in Chapel Hill.
Finding a New Passion聽
In 2021, Joanna transitioned to healthcare administration, joining 大象传媒 Radiology. Initially unsure about the field, she quickly found her stride, supported by her mentor, Paul Marini. Over time, her role evolved into Program Coordinator, supporting senior leadership and overseeing department initiatives.
“Joanna has been an invaluable asset to our department since she joined us three and a half years ago,鈥� says Dan Bouton, 大象传媒 Radiology Associate Chair for Administration. 鈥淗er curiosity, eagerness to take on new challenges, and exceptional attention to detail have consistently contributed to numerous successes during her time with us.鈥�
Joanna describes her role as 鈥渙rganizing leadership efforts,鈥� emphasizing her adaptability and willingness to learn. I like to think of myself as a jack of all trades,鈥� she says enthusiastically.
鈥淛oanna is a delight to work with; she is smart and driven while bringing fun and energy to every task,鈥� says Lauren Burke, 大象传媒 Radiology Executive Vice Chair.
Her experience in healthcare administration has inspired her to pursue further growth. Joanna is fully committed to her new career path with plans to start a certificate program in healthcare administration at 大象传媒鈥檚 Gillings School of Public Health in 2025.
Life Outside of Work聽
Joanna鈥檚 world revolves around her family. She, her husband Jacob, and their two children love exploring the Triangle鈥檚 restaurants, parks, and museums. Their favorite summer tradition? A week at Emerald Isle, a ritual they鈥檝e cherished for the past decade.
Joanna鈥檚 love of adventure extends beyond North Carolina. If she had a superpower, it would be teleportation: 鈥�100%. Go to all the cool places.鈥�
A True Enthusiast聽
If there鈥檚 one word to describe Joanna, it鈥檚 enthusiastic. Whether she鈥檚 diving into her career, family life, or favorite pastime of watching documentaries on inspiring figures like Michael Jordan, Joanna approaches everything with energy and positivity.
鈥淛oanna is an awesome colleague,鈥� says Sheerah Coe, 大象传媒 Radiology Communications Manager. 鈥淪he is kind, helpful, and supportive, not to mention she always has a smile on her face. It鈥檚 a great day when I get the chance to connect and work with Joanna on projects.鈥�
Her advice to her younger self reflects this outlook: 鈥淒on鈥檛 be so fixated on one thing or the little things. Take things as they come and be open to new experiences.鈥�
Lights, Camera, Joanna聽
If Joanna鈥檚 life were a movie, Jennifer Lawrence would star as the leading lady, capturing her mix of determination, warmth, and humor. The title? “Joanna Newman: Live from Above.”聽
Through it all, Joanna鈥檚 favorite thing isn鈥檛 her impressive career trajectory or her knack for reinvention鈥攊t鈥檚 her family. Her journey may have taken unexpected turns, but it鈥檚 clear she鈥檚 exactly where she鈥檚 meant to be.