Advisory Team

I am an associate professor of nutrition and public health instruction in the College of Public Health at Temple University (main campus), Philadelphia. I am also a registered dietitian nutritionist who worked in the clinical, community, and private practice settings. I lead several campus initiatives and research projects aimed at improving sustainable access to whole, nutritious foods for all at Temple University and in the Philadelphia region.

Favorite fruit or veggie: All!

Favorite physical activity: Walking and biking 

As one of the founding PA NEN members and member of several committees, I bring history and a support of a community based organization PA NEN is.  My work has been in community outreach.

Favorite fruit or veggie: All!

Favorite physical activity: Family activities 

I began my journey as a Nutrition Educator, teaching elementary students in Philadelphia schools about MyPlate and engaging families through school- community events. As the Community Project Coordinator at HPC, I lead initiatives in schools, health centers and pantries, focusing on school garden projects and tailored programs based on community needs. Additionally, through my business Chosen Kids LLC, I promote children's health with creative activities while valuing family time spent exploring gardening.

Favorite fruit or veggie:  Watermelon and cucumber - they taste even better when I grow them myself!

Favorite physical activity: Dance fitness (Zumba)

I have 16 years of experience working PA SNAP-Ed at Drexel University's Eat Right Philly Program. I have experience with curriculum and intervention development and evaluation in SNAP-Ed.

Favorite fruit or veggie: Berries, green beans, mushrooms and peppers

Favorite physical activity: Hiking, walking, gardening, and playing golf

I'm a registered dietitian nutritionist with over 15 years of experience specializing in accessible, evidence-based nutrition care focused on chronic disease prevention. As the owner of Pennsylvania Nutrition Services and an early intervention nutrition therapist, I provide personalized nutrition therapy and support local initiatives for better food access. I'm also a freelance writer for health publications, passionate about making nutrition approachable and empowering people to make informed, healthy choices.

Favorite fruit or veggie: Nectarines and edamame 

Favorite physical activity: Pilates

I facilitate training and technical assistance for federal child nutrition programs operators in their efforts to connect children with eating and learning about local foods. In many settings, children participating in child nutrition programs meals may potentially benefit from SNAP-Ed opportunities.

Favorite fruit or veggie: Collard greens 

Favorite physical activity: Brisk walking in the woods

I have been teaching nutrition courses to both graduate and undergraduate students for the past 10 years, preparing many of them for careers as Registered Dietitians (RD). I also have experience developing and implementing community-based nutrition education programs, such as a heart-healthy eating initiative in Chester, PA called Food Matters, which combined nutrition classes, cooking demonstrations, and take-home groceries. My experience equips me to bring practical, evidence-based insights to the advisory committee in community and nutrition education.

Favorite fruit or veggie: Dragon fruit

Favorite physical activity: Dance

I have over 30 years working in Community and Public Health, mentoring dietetic interns, and training staff. I am actively involved is creating nutrition education handouts, management training programs, and evaluation of staff performance. I have also been an adjunct professor for graduate students at Immaculata University.

Favorite fruit or veggie: All kinds of berries- strawberries, blueberries, raspberries!

Favorite physical activity: Walks with my children and Flea Market hunting!

I'm the mom to 2 kind adult children, wife to a force of nature, and the founder of an incredible labor of love, CHOP Out Hunger.

Favorite fruit or veggie: Mango

Favorite physical activity: Walking in nature

I have an interesting background - coming from a long line of PA Dutch Farmers, experiencing food insecurity at various points throughout my life, and being a nutrition/food nerd for as long as I can remember. I have a Bachelor of Science in Biobehavioral Health from Penn State and am working on finishing my Masters in Public Health with a focus on Global Health & a minor in Public Administration at the Penn State College of Medicine. I currently work as a Nutrition Educator at Helping Harvest Fresh Food Bank, which is a job that never truly feels like work because of how much I love it!

Favorite fruit or veggie: Raspberries or mango

Favorite physical activity: Playing Dance Dance Revolution (DDR)

I am a Registered Dietitian with over ten years of experience working in Community Nutrition settings. I have experience with nutrition needs assessment, program design and assessment. I am a very good communicator, creative, and love to connect and collaborate with others.

Favorite fruit or veggie: Berries

Favorite physical activity: Strength training