Linda Suydam is the president and principal spokesperson for CHPA under the guidance and direction of the CHPA Board of Directors.

Suydam joined CHPA as its president in June 2002. Since then she has directed the establishment of CHPA’s educational foundation whose goal is improved public health through safe and effective OTC use; has increased opportunities for synergistic cooperation between member firms by establishing the annual Market Exchange and retail immersion events; and enhanced the association’s positive relationship with the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) through educational seminars, conferences, and joint learning opportunities.

Prior to joining CHPA, Suydam enjoyed a 21-year career at FDA, rising from an entry-level position to senior associate commissioner, the highest-ranking, non-political executive position in the agency. During her career, she received the Presidential Meritorious Rank Award, the Department of Health and Human Services Distinguished Service Award, and the Public Health Service Superior Service Award. She left FDA for three years to serve as the associate vice president of the Health Sciences Center of the University of New Mexico with responsibility for planning, development, public relations, and marketing.

Suydam is a member of several boards of directors, including the World Self-Medication Industry Federation and the Food and Drug Law Institute, for which she serves as treasurer.

Education:
B.A., College of New Jersey
M.A., George Washington University
M.P.A., D.P.A., University of Southern California

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