Alumni Spotlight: Laura J. Downey Walks Through Her Media Journey

Posted by Michael Walsh on

Written by Victoria Bile

School of Communication Alumna Laura J. Downey has continuously pursued further knowledge. At Florida State University, Downey majored in Communication for Business because of its flexible career options. After her undergraduate studies, she earned her Master of Science in Journalism from Florida A&M University.

Currently, Downey works as the executive editor of WebMD Magazine and its point-of-care products—which explain health conditions to patients. She communicates through her writing and editing—transferable skills that the journalist establishes as the foundation of most careers.

“Every business needs a good writer and a great communicator,” Downey said.

Downey’s time in the School of Communication—and Florida State overall—played a role in her success in connecting with others. Downey’s campus involvement and volunteer roles prepared her for her first job as a reporter for People, where proper communication skills determined your results.

“What we’re learning here [at FSU] can go across all trades,” Downey said.

After People, Downey worked as a fashion magazine editor in Las Vegas and returned to Tallahassee to teach magazine journalism at Florida A&M University. She then worked with Atlanta Best Media’s eight publications and ForbesTravelGuide.com. Downey also served as the senior executive editor at Modern Luxury Corporation. Afterward, the SCOM Alumna spent 18 months as a freelance journalist.

The journalist and lifestyle influencer ensures that she is always learning and growing. In Dec. 2023, she was unanimously voted in as president of the Georgia Chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists. In May 2024, Downey earned her second master’s degree in Ministry from Richmont Graduate University.

On September 13, 2024, Downey visited FSU College of Communication and Information students during an Alumni Lunch Hour. The executive editor relayed her career timeline and provided students with media expertise. Among her multitude of advice, Downey emphasized that voicing your ideas is a powerful way to be seen and heard in the workplace. It fosters collaboration, drives innovation and creates a culture of open communication.

Downey’s journey stands as a reminder for students to trust their instincts. It is often under the guidance of their intuition that they will encounter the most success.