Meet the sos 2015 breakout presenters
Rosalie Aguilar
Rosalie Aguilar, MS, is project coordinator for Salud America!, The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation’s (RWJF) National Research Network to Prevent Obesity Among Latino Children. Prior to her role as coordinator, Rosalie worked as a Salud America! Curator, interviewing role models & collecting case studies of individuals who are making a positive difference for Latino health. She has previously contributed to numerous local-level community based research programs aimed at preventing diabetes and obesity among Latinos and is currently pursuing her PhD in Translational Science. Her research interests include Latino health disparities, childhood obesity prevention, and e-health communication.
Rosalie Aguilar, MS, is project coordinator for Salud America!, The Robert Wood Johnson Foundation’s (RWJF) National Research Network to Prevent Obesity Among Latino Children. Prior to her role as coordinator, Rosalie worked as a Salud America! Curator, interviewing role models & collecting case studies of individuals who are making a positive difference for Latino health. She has previously contributed to numerous local-level community based research programs aimed at preventing diabetes and obesity among Latinos and is currently pursuing her PhD in Translational Science. Her research interests include Latino health disparities, childhood obesity prevention, and e-health communication.
Greta Anglin
Greta Anglin is a Group Account Director at VI Marketing and Branding. She is the key contact and communication planner for two accounts - the Oklahoma State Department of Health and Oklahoma Tobacco Settlement Endowment Trust. She is responsible for social marketing campaigns that influence knowledge, attitudes and behavior of Oklahoma residents. Greta is heavily involved in strategy, implementation and research/evaluation of marketing campaigns.
Greta Anglin is a Group Account Director at VI Marketing and Branding. She is the key contact and communication planner for two accounts - the Oklahoma State Department of Health and Oklahoma Tobacco Settlement Endowment Trust. She is responsible for social marketing campaigns that influence knowledge, attitudes and behavior of Oklahoma residents. Greta is heavily involved in strategy, implementation and research/evaluation of marketing campaigns.
Heather Atteberry
Heather Atteberry received her Masters of Public Health from the University of Texas School of Public Health and has worked at the Michael & Susan Dell Center for Healthy Living since November 2007 in child obesity prevention program implementation and evaluation. At the Center, she has coordinated the implementation and measurements for multiple projects (Active Play-Active Learning, TCOPPE, SPAN 2009-11 survey, CORD), including student and parent surveys, height and weight measurements, and environmental and grocery store audits. She is currently the Center Coordinator for Michael & Susan Dell Center for Healthy Living which aims to advance health and healthy living for children and families through innovative research, cutting edge community-based programs, and dissemination of evidence-based practices.
Heather Atteberry received her Masters of Public Health from the University of Texas School of Public Health and has worked at the Michael & Susan Dell Center for Healthy Living since November 2007 in child obesity prevention program implementation and evaluation. At the Center, she has coordinated the implementation and measurements for multiple projects (Active Play-Active Learning, TCOPPE, SPAN 2009-11 survey, CORD), including student and parent surveys, height and weight measurements, and environmental and grocery store audits. She is currently the Center Coordinator for Michael & Susan Dell Center for Healthy Living which aims to advance health and healthy living for children and families through innovative research, cutting edge community-based programs, and dissemination of evidence-based practices.
Ona Balkus
Ona Balkus is an attorney in Harvard’s Food Law and Policy Clinic. After teaching cooking-based nutrition classes in her home town of Washington, DC, Ona decided to pursue a career dedicating to improve the food system. In her current role, she provides legal and policy guidance to community advocacy groups and nonprofits who are working to improve their communities’ food systems. Her clients have included advocacy coalitions in Mississippi, the Appalachian region, and the Navajo Nation, among others.
Ona Balkus is an attorney in Harvard’s Food Law and Policy Clinic. After teaching cooking-based nutrition classes in her home town of Washington, DC, Ona decided to pursue a career dedicating to improve the food system. In her current role, she provides legal and policy guidance to community advocacy groups and nonprofits who are working to improve their communities’ food systems. Her clients have included advocacy coalitions in Mississippi, the Appalachian region, and the Navajo Nation, among others.
Katrina Betancourt
Katrina Betancourt is the Chair Elect for the Arkansas Coalition for Obesity Prevention (ArCOP). She has earned a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Kinesiological Science and is currently working on her Doctorate in Health Education with an emphasis in Health Program Planning and Health Policy. Her focus area has been concentrated in worksite interventions to promote lifelong health by increasing community and organizational level worksite program systems and through education and training of best practice interventions. She is a Certified Public and Government Manager and currently works with fifty-three Growing Healthy Communities (GHC) across the state. Her mission is to increase access to healthy and affordable foods and physical activity through policy, environment, and system changes while increasing the economic value of communities.
Katrina Betancourt is the Chair Elect for the Arkansas Coalition for Obesity Prevention (ArCOP). She has earned a Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Kinesiological Science and is currently working on her Doctorate in Health Education with an emphasis in Health Program Planning and Health Policy. Her focus area has been concentrated in worksite interventions to promote lifelong health by increasing community and organizational level worksite program systems and through education and training of best practice interventions. She is a Certified Public and Government Manager and currently works with fifty-three Growing Healthy Communities (GHC) across the state. Her mission is to increase access to healthy and affordable foods and physical activity through policy, environment, and system changes while increasing the economic value of communities.
Augusta Bilbro
Augusta Bilbro is the Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention Program Director and Mississippi Delta Health Collaborative Clinical Coordinator at the Mississippi State Department of Health, Office of Preventive Health (OPH). She is dedicated to cultivating a culture of continuous quality improvement within healthcare systems to better address the patients’ needs. Mrs. Bilbro initiated and implemented plans to increase the number of American Society of Hypertension (ASH) Hypertension Specialists and ASH designated hypertension practice centers through a partnership with the Mississippi Task Force on Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention and the Mississippi State Medical Association. She was an integral partner in implementing the OPH Chronic Disease Bureau’s first Hypertension and Diabetes Quality Improvement Initiative, and more recently, the Mississippi Quality Improvement Initiative II. Mrs. Bilbro is the former chair of the Mississippi State Department of Health Worksite Wellness Council, a member of the National Association of Chronic Disease Directors and Mississippi Task Force on Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention. She attained her Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Southern Mississippi.
Augusta Bilbro is the Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention Program Director and Mississippi Delta Health Collaborative Clinical Coordinator at the Mississippi State Department of Health, Office of Preventive Health (OPH). She is dedicated to cultivating a culture of continuous quality improvement within healthcare systems to better address the patients’ needs. Mrs. Bilbro initiated and implemented plans to increase the number of American Society of Hypertension (ASH) Hypertension Specialists and ASH designated hypertension practice centers through a partnership with the Mississippi Task Force on Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention and the Mississippi State Medical Association. She was an integral partner in implementing the OPH Chronic Disease Bureau’s first Hypertension and Diabetes Quality Improvement Initiative, and more recently, the Mississippi Quality Improvement Initiative II. Mrs. Bilbro is the former chair of the Mississippi State Department of Health Worksite Wellness Council, a member of the National Association of Chronic Disease Directors and Mississippi Task Force on Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention. She attained her Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Southern Mississippi.
Kate Blackburn
Kate Blackburn is the Director of FitWorth, Mayor Betsy Price’s healthy city initiative, where she champions the strategic direction and programmatic implementation of the mission to create a movement for more movement and healthier choices in Fort Worth. Her passion for civic engagement and nonprofit innovation were cultivated during her time at Catholic Charities Fort Worth, in Refugee Services and then Public Relations, where she developed an advocacy initiative for the organization’s work throughout Texas. She has had the opportunity to be civically engaged personally, as Chair of Catholic Charities USA’s Young Professionals Network, Advocacy Chair for Need YPO, and involvement in SteerFW, the American Red Cross, and the Cowtown Marathon’s CALF program. Kate has a Bachelor’s in Political Science, as well as a Master’s in International Peace and Conflict Studies, as well as a Graduate Certificate in Lifestyle Health from UNT Health Science Center.
Kate Blackburn is the Director of FitWorth, Mayor Betsy Price’s healthy city initiative, where she champions the strategic direction and programmatic implementation of the mission to create a movement for more movement and healthier choices in Fort Worth. Her passion for civic engagement and nonprofit innovation were cultivated during her time at Catholic Charities Fort Worth, in Refugee Services and then Public Relations, where she developed an advocacy initiative for the organization’s work throughout Texas. She has had the opportunity to be civically engaged personally, as Chair of Catholic Charities USA’s Young Professionals Network, Advocacy Chair for Need YPO, and involvement in SteerFW, the American Red Cross, and the Cowtown Marathon’s CALF program. Kate has a Bachelor’s in Political Science, as well as a Master’s in International Peace and Conflict Studies, as well as a Graduate Certificate in Lifestyle Health from UNT Health Science Center.
Ericka Burroughs-Girardi
Ericka Burroughs-Girardi is one of 11 coaches employed by County Health Rankings & Roadmaps. She is an anthropologist with more than a decade of experience guiding community partners in creating a shared vision of achieving a healthy community. Ericka served as a Research Associate for the University of South Carolina’s Prevention Research Center where she helped develop a community health advocacy and leadership skills-building program for lay leaders. She has coached community-based organizations, local governments, and community health planning groups in the principles of community engagement and collective impact, health policy advocacy, and health equity. Ericka served as the Health Equity Coordinator for the Florida Department of Health in Orange County, where she led the effort to establish a focus on health equity in Central Florida including the co-founding of the first food policy council and creation of the first award for health equity efforts in the region. She created a nationally recognized influenza vaccination promotion toolkit. Ericka holds a Master of Arts in Applied Anthropology from the University of South Florida and Master
of Public Health from the University of South Carolina. She resides in Deltona, Florida.
Ericka Burroughs-Girardi is one of 11 coaches employed by County Health Rankings & Roadmaps. She is an anthropologist with more than a decade of experience guiding community partners in creating a shared vision of achieving a healthy community. Ericka served as a Research Associate for the University of South Carolina’s Prevention Research Center where she helped develop a community health advocacy and leadership skills-building program for lay leaders. She has coached community-based organizations, local governments, and community health planning groups in the principles of community engagement and collective impact, health policy advocacy, and health equity. Ericka served as the Health Equity Coordinator for the Florida Department of Health in Orange County, where she led the effort to establish a focus on health equity in Central Florida including the co-founding of the first food policy council and creation of the first award for health equity efforts in the region. She created a nationally recognized influenza vaccination promotion toolkit. Ericka holds a Master of Arts in Applied Anthropology from the University of South Florida and Master
of Public Health from the University of South Carolina. She resides in Deltona, Florida.
Rachel A. Campos
Rachel Campos joined the Georgia Health Policy Center in February of 2010. She provides technical assistance to rural health initiatives across the country with a focus on building their capacity and long-term sustainability, specific to childhood obesity. In addition, she provides technical assistance to Georgia’s Student Health and Physical Education (SHAPE) grantees to develop Wellness Committees and physical activity and nutrition plans within school communities for an opportunity to achieve a greater level of overall fitness and health. Before joining the GHPC, Rachel was an evaluation coordinator with a research firm where she oversaw evaluation plans for two federally funded programs. She brings with her expertise in planning, implementing, and
evaluating health promotion programs in both the public and private sectors. Originally from Louisiana, Rachel attended Tulane University where she studied Health Communication and Community Nutrition and received a Master of Public Health. She also has a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology with a minor in Psychology from the University of New Orleans.
Rachel Campos joined the Georgia Health Policy Center in February of 2010. She provides technical assistance to rural health initiatives across the country with a focus on building their capacity and long-term sustainability, specific to childhood obesity. In addition, she provides technical assistance to Georgia’s Student Health and Physical Education (SHAPE) grantees to develop Wellness Committees and physical activity and nutrition plans within school communities for an opportunity to achieve a greater level of overall fitness and health. Before joining the GHPC, Rachel was an evaluation coordinator with a research firm where she oversaw evaluation plans for two federally funded programs. She brings with her expertise in planning, implementing, and
evaluating health promotion programs in both the public and private sectors. Originally from Louisiana, Rachel attended Tulane University where she studied Health Communication and Community Nutrition and received a Master of Public Health. She also has a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology with a minor in Psychology from the University of New Orleans.
Teresa Carithers
Dr. Carithers is a nutritional epidemiologist with a PhD in Preventive Medicine. Her research includes nutrition policy evaluations, child nutrition relationships, and cultural based health research. She is currently the Associate Dean in the School of Applied Sciences and is currently conducting research on the Nutrition Integrity Assessment Project and the Jackson Heart Study.
Dr. Carithers is a nutritional epidemiologist with a PhD in Preventive Medicine. Her research includes nutrition policy evaluations, child nutrition relationships, and cultural based health research. She is currently the Associate Dean in the School of Applied Sciences and is currently conducting research on the Nutrition Integrity Assessment Project and the Jackson Heart Study.
Joyce Chen
Joyce is a senior at Elkins High School and President of the Oliver Foundation Teen Advisory Board. At Elkins, she is ranked first in her class and serves as the President of Student Council and is the founding editor-in-chief of the newspaper. Joyce is also a member of the current Fort Bend ISD Gifted and Talented Mentorship cohort. Born in Taiwan, she enjoys dancing and discovering new street food.
Joyce is a senior at Elkins High School and President of the Oliver Foundation Teen Advisory Board. At Elkins, she is ranked first in her class and serves as the President of Student Council and is the founding editor-in-chief of the newspaper. Joyce is also a member of the current Fort Bend ISD Gifted and Talented Mentorship cohort. Born in Taiwan, she enjoys dancing and discovering new street food.
Hwanseck Choi
As a biostatistician at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, Hwanseck participated in multiple projects in cardiovascular diseases research, cancer research, social behavior research, and clinical trials. She was involved in the design of the studies, data entry design, data coding, data edit checking, analyses, and statistical report preparation for over 60 studies as a member of the statistical team, using multiple statistical packages such as SAS, SPSS, STATA, and ArcGIS, etc. Since she has transferred from a statistician in a research institution to an Assistant Professor in a teaching-focused organization, she has been developing a new research topic, obesity. There are several reasons for her choice: (1) one of the research projects in which she participated at her previous position was the relationship between obesity and depression, and (2) Mississippi continually ranks among the states with the highest obesity prevalence rates. One of her research projects she has been working on is, “Church-based programs to reduce obesity prevalence rates in African-American young females in the Delta area of Mississippi: Comparison between positive and negative communication methods.” According to previous research, the targeted group is among the groups with the highest obesity prevalence rates, and the church-based approach might be the most appropriate method to achieve the goal of reducing the obesity prevalence rate effectively and efficiently. This on-going research will help her to understand the issues of this proposed research project and contribute as an investigator for it in even more ways.
As a biostatistician at the University of Alabama at Birmingham, Hwanseck participated in multiple projects in cardiovascular diseases research, cancer research, social behavior research, and clinical trials. She was involved in the design of the studies, data entry design, data coding, data edit checking, analyses, and statistical report preparation for over 60 studies as a member of the statistical team, using multiple statistical packages such as SAS, SPSS, STATA, and ArcGIS, etc. Since she has transferred from a statistician in a research institution to an Assistant Professor in a teaching-focused organization, she has been developing a new research topic, obesity. There are several reasons for her choice: (1) one of the research projects in which she participated at her previous position was the relationship between obesity and depression, and (2) Mississippi continually ranks among the states with the highest obesity prevalence rates. One of her research projects she has been working on is, “Church-based programs to reduce obesity prevalence rates in African-American young females in the Delta area of Mississippi: Comparison between positive and negative communication methods.” According to previous research, the targeted group is among the groups with the highest obesity prevalence rates, and the church-based approach might be the most appropriate method to achieve the goal of reducing the obesity prevalence rate effectively and efficiently. This on-going research will help her to understand the issues of this proposed research project and contribute as an investigator for it in even more ways.
Mariah L. Cole
Mariah Cole, J.D. is the Director of Program Management in the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Center for Health Policy at Meharry Medical College where she oversees a twelve credit hour curriculum for medical, dental, graduate, and doctoral students who are particularly interested in health policy, especially as it relates to health disparities. Her work at Meharry Medical College pays a keen eye to serving the underserved and exposing students to the social determinants of health that disproportionately affect impoverished communities. Her research interests often deal with criminal laws and population health in a way that seeks to improve the criminal justice system or alleviates the often negative experiences that underserved groups have with the health care system. She is a graduate of the University of Mississippi where she earned a BA in English. She also earned a JD degree from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock William H. Bowen School of Law and is licensed to practice law in Tennessee. Her legal background allowed her the opportunity to complete an internship with the Mississippi Center for Justice, where she worked with a public health law attorney and advocated for the rights of underserved citizens to access free or reduced health care.
Mariah Cole, J.D. is the Director of Program Management in the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation Center for Health Policy at Meharry Medical College where she oversees a twelve credit hour curriculum for medical, dental, graduate, and doctoral students who are particularly interested in health policy, especially as it relates to health disparities. Her work at Meharry Medical College pays a keen eye to serving the underserved and exposing students to the social determinants of health that disproportionately affect impoverished communities. Her research interests often deal with criminal laws and population health in a way that seeks to improve the criminal justice system or alleviates the often negative experiences that underserved groups have with the health care system. She is a graduate of the University of Mississippi where she earned a BA in English. She also earned a JD degree from the University of Arkansas at Little Rock William H. Bowen School of Law and is licensed to practice law in Tennessee. Her legal background allowed her the opportunity to complete an internship with the Mississippi Center for Justice, where she worked with a public health law attorney and advocated for the rights of underserved citizens to access free or reduced health care.
Kelly Cornett
Kelly Cornett serves as the Physical Activity Coordinator for the Georgia Department of Public Health contributing to the world of health promotion and chronic disease prevention amidst leaders in public health. She is currently facilitating Georgia Shape’s “Power Up for 30” initiative which encourages all elementary schools to integrate 30 more minutes of physical activity into the school day using low-to no-cost resources. She strives to translate evidence-based research into public health practice with a passion for education, teamwork, leadership, and wellness. A native of Minnesota, she completed her Bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology from the Honors College at Michigan State University followed by obtaining a Master’s degree in Exercise Physiology from James Madison University. During her studies, she gathered experience in several school-based physical activity intervention programs and coordinated community-based physical activity promotion programs for women and children while managing community partnerships to create innovative curriculum. During her undergraduate career, she concurrently built a foundation in data collection and statistical analysis. She served on a team of researchers in the local school district conducting physical fitness assessments and data collection as part of a grant project developing curriculum in schools and communities. She supports a multidisciplinary approach for policy and outreach efforts while capitalizing on the impact of research translation and community partnerships.
Kelly Cornett serves as the Physical Activity Coordinator for the Georgia Department of Public Health contributing to the world of health promotion and chronic disease prevention amidst leaders in public health. She is currently facilitating Georgia Shape’s “Power Up for 30” initiative which encourages all elementary schools to integrate 30 more minutes of physical activity into the school day using low-to no-cost resources. She strives to translate evidence-based research into public health practice with a passion for education, teamwork, leadership, and wellness. A native of Minnesota, she completed her Bachelor’s degree in Kinesiology from the Honors College at Michigan State University followed by obtaining a Master’s degree in Exercise Physiology from James Madison University. During her studies, she gathered experience in several school-based physical activity intervention programs and coordinated community-based physical activity promotion programs for women and children while managing community partnerships to create innovative curriculum. During her undergraduate career, she concurrently built a foundation in data collection and statistical analysis. She served on a team of researchers in the local school district conducting physical fitness assessments and data collection as part of a grant project developing curriculum in schools and communities. She supports a multidisciplinary approach for policy and outreach efforts while capitalizing on the impact of research translation and community partnerships.
Tiffany Crank
Tiffany holds a Bachelors of Science in Microbiology (2004) and a Masters of Public Health with a concentration in Social and Behavioral Sciences (2013). She is currently employed with the Gaston County Department of Health and Human Services where she has worked as Health Education Coordinator for the last 3.5 years. She is currently working on the initiatives of obesity prevention and teen pregnancy prevention. She is also a member of the North Carolina Society of Public Health Educators.
Tiffany holds a Bachelors of Science in Microbiology (2004) and a Masters of Public Health with a concentration in Social and Behavioral Sciences (2013). She is currently employed with the Gaston County Department of Health and Human Services where she has worked as Health Education Coordinator for the last 3.5 years. She is currently working on the initiatives of obesity prevention and teen pregnancy prevention. She is also a member of the North Carolina Society of Public Health Educators.
Amy DeLisio - Nutrition, Worksite Wellness
Amy DeLisio is currently the Deputy Director at the Public Health Institute Center for Wellness and Nutrition with over ten years of experience working on nutrition and obesity prevention programs serving vulnerable populations. Ms. DeLisio’s work includes a broad variety of initiatives that reach low resource populations through federal, state and privately-funded interventions. Major focus areas of the Center include healthy retail initiatives, worksite wellness interventions, policy, system and environmental change strategies and partnership engagement and development. Amy is passionate about building the evidence base through effective educational, environmental and policy strategies that increase access to healthy food and safe spaces that advance health equity in low resource communities. Ms. DeLisio is a Registered Dietitian with a Master’s degree in Public Health from the University of Southern California, Los Angeles.
Amy DeLisio is currently the Deputy Director at the Public Health Institute Center for Wellness and Nutrition with over ten years of experience working on nutrition and obesity prevention programs serving vulnerable populations. Ms. DeLisio’s work includes a broad variety of initiatives that reach low resource populations through federal, state and privately-funded interventions. Major focus areas of the Center include healthy retail initiatives, worksite wellness interventions, policy, system and environmental change strategies and partnership engagement and development. Amy is passionate about building the evidence base through effective educational, environmental and policy strategies that increase access to healthy food and safe spaces that advance health equity in low resource communities. Ms. DeLisio is a Registered Dietitian with a Master’s degree in Public Health from the University of Southern California, Los Angeles.
Leslie Denner
Leslie Denner is a Marketing Coordinator at VI Marketing and Branding. She helps manage the Shape Your Future campaign, which encourages Oklahomans to eat better, move more and be tobacco free. Leslie is very involved in social media strategy and execution.
Leslie Denner is a Marketing Coordinator at VI Marketing and Branding. She helps manage the Shape Your Future campaign, which encourages Oklahomans to eat better, move more and be tobacco free. Leslie is very involved in social media strategy and execution.
Diane M. Dowdy
Diane M. Dowdy, PhD is currently an Assistant Professor in the Health Promotion and Community Health Sciences at the Texas A&M Health Science Center’s School of Rural Public Health. She has a long history of leadership in the development and implementation of programs at multiple levels: community, state, and national activities. Previously, as Deputy Director of the Active for Life ® National Program Office, and currently as Program Director for the Texas Childhood Obesity Prevention Policy Evaluation (T-COPPE) project (both sponsored by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation), she has worked to create highly-functional multidisciplinary teams, balancing critical programmatic needs while remaining responsive to the needs of project partners and the demands of their individual organizations/systems. Prior to these responsibilities, Dr. Dowdy had extensive experience in the healthcare/community education fields as director of health promotion and community health education services. Involved in health promotion programs, worksite wellness, and patient and community health education programs, Dr. Dowdy planned, implemented, and evaluated both disease management and healthy lifestyle programs in a variety of formats allowing both individualization of approach and multiple access points.
Diane M. Dowdy, PhD is currently an Assistant Professor in the Health Promotion and Community Health Sciences at the Texas A&M Health Science Center’s School of Rural Public Health. She has a long history of leadership in the development and implementation of programs at multiple levels: community, state, and national activities. Previously, as Deputy Director of the Active for Life ® National Program Office, and currently as Program Director for the Texas Childhood Obesity Prevention Policy Evaluation (T-COPPE) project (both sponsored by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation), she has worked to create highly-functional multidisciplinary teams, balancing critical programmatic needs while remaining responsive to the needs of project partners and the demands of their individual organizations/systems. Prior to these responsibilities, Dr. Dowdy had extensive experience in the healthcare/community education fields as director of health promotion and community health education services. Involved in health promotion programs, worksite wellness, and patient and community health education programs, Dr. Dowdy planned, implemented, and evaluated both disease management and healthy lifestyle programs in a variety of formats allowing both individualization of approach and multiple access points.
Rachel England
Rachel England current serves as the Seed-to-Plate Nutrition Education Program™ Coordinator at Recipe for Success Foundation. She previously worked for KIPP Houston Public Schools as a bilingual first grade teacher, kindergarten teacher and grade level chair. She graduated from Washington University in St. Louis with a B.A. in Spanish and Latin American Politics.
Rachel England current serves as the Seed-to-Plate Nutrition Education Program™ Coordinator at Recipe for Success Foundation. She previously worked for KIPP Houston Public Schools as a bilingual first grade teacher, kindergarten teacher and grade level chair. She graduated from Washington University in St. Louis with a B.A. in Spanish and Latin American Politics.
Melissa Fahrenbruch
Melissa Fahrenbruch BS, MEd is the Program and Professional Development Team Lead in the Division of Population Health’s School Health Branch, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Melissa earned a BS in Education from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, and began her professional career in Lincoln, NE. She has over 12 years of experience in the education field. A daughter of educators, Melissa’s first teaching position was with the Charles Culler Middle School. After four years of teaching at Culler and serving as an assistant coach (golf, soccer and basketball) at Lincoln Southeast, Melissa moved to Omaha, NE, where she was a physical education teacher and coach at Omaha North High School. Upon completion of her MEd in Education Leadership from Doane College, Melissa was appointed Assistant Athletic Director/Dean of Students. She was also balancing her time as the head Women’s Golf coach at the University of Nebraska-Omaha, which earned her 2003 North Central Conference Coach of the Year. Melissa was then presented with an opportunity to extend her knowledge beyond the school walls and return to her home state of Kansas to the State Department of Education as the Coordinated School Health Director. She was also the lead author of the Kansas Physical Education and Health Education Standards, and she worked collaboratively with the Governor’s council on the “Healthy Kansas, Healthy Schools Initiative” with coordinated school health schools. Her leadership and expertise in coordinated school health landed her in her current position, Team Lead in CDC/DPH. Melissa currently oversees two school health cooperative agreements for states and national organizations and is the lead for internal and external professional development events for CDC staff and funded partners. A sign on Melissa’s office door says, “If I can’t be seen, then I am on the green.” That statement holds true, as you can usually find her on the golf course on weekends with her husband, Fred. Melissa is a former University of Nebraska student-athlete, where she lettered four years as a member of the women’s golf team. Her “Big Red” blood still runs through her veins; she is currently on the Board of Directors of Georgians for Nebraska, the largest Nebraska Alumni group in the country. If all her extra curricular activities don’t keep her busy, she is usually on the weekends riding her Harley Davidson Softail.
Melissa Fahrenbruch BS, MEd is the Program and Professional Development Team Lead in the Division of Population Health’s School Health Branch, National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Melissa earned a BS in Education from the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, and began her professional career in Lincoln, NE. She has over 12 years of experience in the education field. A daughter of educators, Melissa’s first teaching position was with the Charles Culler Middle School. After four years of teaching at Culler and serving as an assistant coach (golf, soccer and basketball) at Lincoln Southeast, Melissa moved to Omaha, NE, where she was a physical education teacher and coach at Omaha North High School. Upon completion of her MEd in Education Leadership from Doane College, Melissa was appointed Assistant Athletic Director/Dean of Students. She was also balancing her time as the head Women’s Golf coach at the University of Nebraska-Omaha, which earned her 2003 North Central Conference Coach of the Year. Melissa was then presented with an opportunity to extend her knowledge beyond the school walls and return to her home state of Kansas to the State Department of Education as the Coordinated School Health Director. She was also the lead author of the Kansas Physical Education and Health Education Standards, and she worked collaboratively with the Governor’s council on the “Healthy Kansas, Healthy Schools Initiative” with coordinated school health schools. Her leadership and expertise in coordinated school health landed her in her current position, Team Lead in CDC/DPH. Melissa currently oversees two school health cooperative agreements for states and national organizations and is the lead for internal and external professional development events for CDC staff and funded partners. A sign on Melissa’s office door says, “If I can’t be seen, then I am on the green.” That statement holds true, as you can usually find her on the golf course on weekends with her husband, Fred. Melissa is a former University of Nebraska student-athlete, where she lettered four years as a member of the women’s golf team. Her “Big Red” blood still runs through her veins; she is currently on the Board of Directors of Georgians for Nebraska, the largest Nebraska Alumni group in the country. If all her extra curricular activities don’t keep her busy, she is usually on the weekends riding her Harley Davidson Softail.
Bradlee Few
Bradlee is a senior at The Kinkaid School in Houston, TX and Event Coordinator for the Oliver Foundation Teen Advisory Board. She is the founder and president of the Foodie Club and is Captain of the Varsity Cross Country and Track teams at Kinkaid. Bradlee is also a Peer Mentor and Admissions Ambassador at Kinkaid and is active in Jack and Jill of America. She recently completed her Gold Award in Girl Scouts.
Bradlee is a senior at The Kinkaid School in Houston, TX and Event Coordinator for the Oliver Foundation Teen Advisory Board. She is the founder and president of the Foodie Club and is Captain of the Varsity Cross Country and Track teams at Kinkaid. Bradlee is also a Peer Mentor and Admissions Ambassador at Kinkaid and is active in Jack and Jill of America. She recently completed her Gold Award in Girl Scouts.
Katie Garfield
Katie Garfield is a Clinical Fellow at the Center for Health Law and Policy Innovation (CHLPI) of Harvard Law School. Katie joined CHLPI in 2014, and currently works in a variety of subject areas, including CHLPI’s diabetes (Providing Access to Healthy Solutions) and Food Is Medicine initiatives. Prior to joining CHLPI, Katie was an associate at Ropes & Gray LLP. Katie received her B.A. from Yale University in 2007, her MPhil from the University of Cambridge in 2008, and her J.D. from Harvard Law School in 2011. She is a licensed member of the Massachusetts bar.
Katie Garfield is a Clinical Fellow at the Center for Health Law and Policy Innovation (CHLPI) of Harvard Law School. Katie joined CHLPI in 2014, and currently works in a variety of subject areas, including CHLPI’s diabetes (Providing Access to Healthy Solutions) and Food Is Medicine initiatives. Prior to joining CHLPI, Katie was an associate at Ropes & Gray LLP. Katie received her B.A. from Yale University in 2007, her MPhil from the University of Cambridge in 2008, and her J.D. from Harvard Law School in 2011. She is a licensed member of the Massachusetts bar.
Annice Garza
Annice Garza has served as an administrator in the Los Fresnos Consolidated Independent School District since 2010. In her current role as Curriculum Coordinator, she leads the development and maintenance of a positive coordinated education program to meet the needs of all children and manages training programs for professional personnel in the following content areas: Science, Social Studies, Physical Education, Languages Other Than English, and Fine Arts. Annice also oversees the implementation of the CATCH Coordinated School Health program for the district. In her previous work, she was a classroom teacher and assistant counselor for the Point Isabel Independent School District. Annice earned a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction, as well as a Principal Certification, from the University of Texas at Brownsville.
Annice Garza has served as an administrator in the Los Fresnos Consolidated Independent School District since 2010. In her current role as Curriculum Coordinator, she leads the development and maintenance of a positive coordinated education program to meet the needs of all children and manages training programs for professional personnel in the following content areas: Science, Social Studies, Physical Education, Languages Other Than English, and Fine Arts. Annice also oversees the implementation of the CATCH Coordinated School Health program for the district. In her previous work, she was a classroom teacher and assistant counselor for the Point Isabel Independent School District. Annice earned a Master of Education in Curriculum and Instruction, as well as a Principal Certification, from the University of Texas at Brownsville.
Danielle Hairston Green
Ms. Hairston Green holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice and a Master’s Degree in Community Psychology and Social Change from Penn State University. She is currently pursuing her doctoral candidate for the PhD in Educational Leadership with Prairie View A&M University in Houston, Texas. As a program specialist with Family and Consumer Science within the Cooperative Extension Program, she will be responsible for training and providing technical support in nutrition education for county based staff to address needs of limited resource clientele, and collaborating with state and federal specialists in nutrition and other disciplines. In addition, she will also be responsible for analyzing and interpreting trends and data necessary for 1890 county personnel to use as they develop and implement programs to meet local needs. She also served as an Adolescent Health Educator and Prevention specialist for 15 years at various nonprofit organizations. In her roles she was sought after to speak and facilitate workshops at state, local, and national level conferences on several health topics. She also successfully implemented two leadership development training centers for teens, worksite wellness programs, and have written and designed several health and wellness curriculum and presentations. Danielle's goal with the cooperative extension program is to help further the strategic goals of the extension as it relates to Family and Consumer Services. She also hopes to support the county agents to empower families, across the state, to become stronger advocates for their health, safety and educational achievement.
Ms. Hairston Green holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminal Justice and a Master’s Degree in Community Psychology and Social Change from Penn State University. She is currently pursuing her doctoral candidate for the PhD in Educational Leadership with Prairie View A&M University in Houston, Texas. As a program specialist with Family and Consumer Science within the Cooperative Extension Program, she will be responsible for training and providing technical support in nutrition education for county based staff to address needs of limited resource clientele, and collaborating with state and federal specialists in nutrition and other disciplines. In addition, she will also be responsible for analyzing and interpreting trends and data necessary for 1890 county personnel to use as they develop and implement programs to meet local needs. She also served as an Adolescent Health Educator and Prevention specialist for 15 years at various nonprofit organizations. In her roles she was sought after to speak and facilitate workshops at state, local, and national level conferences on several health topics. She also successfully implemented two leadership development training centers for teens, worksite wellness programs, and have written and designed several health and wellness curriculum and presentations. Danielle's goal with the cooperative extension program is to help further the strategic goals of the extension as it relates to Family and Consumer Services. She also hopes to support the county agents to empower families, across the state, to become stronger advocates for their health, safety and educational achievement.
Jeff Hatala
Jeff Hatala, PhD is an assistant professor in the Texas A&M School of Public Health in the Department of Health Policy and Management. Dr. Hatala received his doctorate in Health Services Policy and Management in 2013 and masters in mass communication from the University of South Carolina. His main research interest pertains to obesity and obesity-related conditions and how public health organizations can strengthen their role in prevention work through management and policy mechanisms. He has served as reviewer of several obesity-related manuscripts for the Journal of Public Health Management and Practice, Journal of Health Care for the Poor and Underserved, and the Journal of Preventive Medicine. He has published one obesity prevention article in the Journal of Management Policy and Practice and has another in press (scheduled to be published in May 2015) in Southern Medical Journal. He has presented obesity-related research at the Southwest Academy of Management and at the 2013 Southern Obesity Summit.
Jeff Hatala, PhD is an assistant professor in the Texas A&M School of Public Health in the Department of Health Policy and Management. Dr. Hatala received his doctorate in Health Services Policy and Management in 2013 and masters in mass communication from the University of South Carolina. His main research interest pertains to obesity and obesity-related conditions and how public health organizations can strengthen their role in prevention work through management and policy mechanisms. He has served as reviewer of several obesity-related manuscripts for the Journal of Public Health Management and Practice, Journal of Health Care for the Poor and Underserved, and the Journal of Preventive Medicine. He has published one obesity prevention article in the Journal of Management Policy and Practice and has another in press (scheduled to be published in May 2015) in Southern Medical Journal. He has presented obesity-related research at the Southwest Academy of Management and at the 2013 Southern Obesity Summit.
Jackie Hawkins
Ms. Hawkins received a Master’s of Science degree in Rural Public Policy and Planning with Rural Health as her area of specialty. She has been employed for the State of Mississippi since 1988, working with several state agencies and has over twenty years of experience in community outreach, including fifteen years in public health. She is currently a Bureau Director with the Mississippi Delta Health Collaborative/Mississippi State Department of Health, a heart disease and stroke prevention project for the rural Mississippi Delta. In this position, Ms. Hawkins has gained much experience and notoriety for her work in policy, environmental, and systems change. Ms. Hawkins has co-authored presentations and articles highlighting this work. Ms. Hawkins has presented oral and poster presentation at the National Obesity Conference Presentation title “Working Together for Healthy Hearts; October 2012, Charlotte, NC. Also Ms. Hawkins presented “ A Healthy Change is Taking Place All across the Mississippi Delta: Facilitating Policy and Environmental Systems Change at the Local Public Health Level” (National Association of City and County Health Officials); “Building Community Capacity in Rural Mississippi Delta for Policy and Environmental Systems Change” (Xavier University 4th Annual Health Disparities Conference). Publications are, Policy, Systems, and Environmental Change in the Mississippi Delta: Considerations for Evaluation Design,(2015), Planning for the Strategic Recruitment of Barbershops for Blood Pressure Screening and referral in the Mississippi Delta Region, (2014) and Mississippi Delta Health Collaborative featured in the US Department of Health and Human Services December 2014 Surgeon General Report. Ms. Hawkins received the 2013 University of Mississippi Medical Center Rural Health Champion award for her dedication and service to communities throughout Mississippi.
Ms. Hawkins received a Master’s of Science degree in Rural Public Policy and Planning with Rural Health as her area of specialty. She has been employed for the State of Mississippi since 1988, working with several state agencies and has over twenty years of experience in community outreach, including fifteen years in public health. She is currently a Bureau Director with the Mississippi Delta Health Collaborative/Mississippi State Department of Health, a heart disease and stroke prevention project for the rural Mississippi Delta. In this position, Ms. Hawkins has gained much experience and notoriety for her work in policy, environmental, and systems change. Ms. Hawkins has co-authored presentations and articles highlighting this work. Ms. Hawkins has presented oral and poster presentation at the National Obesity Conference Presentation title “Working Together for Healthy Hearts; October 2012, Charlotte, NC. Also Ms. Hawkins presented “ A Healthy Change is Taking Place All across the Mississippi Delta: Facilitating Policy and Environmental Systems Change at the Local Public Health Level” (National Association of City and County Health Officials); “Building Community Capacity in Rural Mississippi Delta for Policy and Environmental Systems Change” (Xavier University 4th Annual Health Disparities Conference). Publications are, Policy, Systems, and Environmental Change in the Mississippi Delta: Considerations for Evaluation Design,(2015), Planning for the Strategic Recruitment of Barbershops for Blood Pressure Screening and referral in the Mississippi Delta Region, (2014) and Mississippi Delta Health Collaborative featured in the US Department of Health and Human Services December 2014 Surgeon General Report. Ms. Hawkins received the 2013 University of Mississippi Medical Center Rural Health Champion award for her dedication and service to communities throughout Mississippi.
Tamaria J. Hawkins
Tamaria J. Hawkins, MBA, MPH. Hawkins is currently employed with the Louisiana Rural Health Association (LRHA) as a Growing Up Fit Together (GUFT) Program Coordinator. Prior to her employment with LRHA, she worked as a GUFT Program Coordinator for Teche Action Clinic for two years. The parishes she serves are Plaquemines, St. Charles, St. James, St. John, Lafourche, St. Bernard, Jefferson and works with St. Mary. She has over ten years of experience in working in the healthcare field, and has worked in the areas of chemical research, public health, medicine, and business administration. Ms. Hawkins holds a B.S. in Biology Pre-med, a M.P.H. in Community Health Practice, and a M.B.A. in Healthcare Management, and has also completed basic medical sciences at the American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine. Hawkins is certified in American Heart CPR & First Aid and has completed the NIH certification for Protecting Human Research Participants.
Tamaria J. Hawkins, MBA, MPH. Hawkins is currently employed with the Louisiana Rural Health Association (LRHA) as a Growing Up Fit Together (GUFT) Program Coordinator. Prior to her employment with LRHA, she worked as a GUFT Program Coordinator for Teche Action Clinic for two years. The parishes she serves are Plaquemines, St. Charles, St. James, St. John, Lafourche, St. Bernard, Jefferson and works with St. Mary. She has over ten years of experience in working in the healthcare field, and has worked in the areas of chemical research, public health, medicine, and business administration. Ms. Hawkins holds a B.S. in Biology Pre-med, a M.P.H. in Community Health Practice, and a M.B.A. in Healthcare Management, and has also completed basic medical sciences at the American University of the Caribbean School of Medicine. Hawkins is certified in American Heart CPR & First Aid and has completed the NIH certification for Protecting Human Research Participants.
Rusty Hohlt
Rusty Hohlt has 10 years of professional experience working in community health education as a part of Texas A&M AgriLife Extension. She received her Bachelor of Science degree from Texas State University in Family and Consumer Sciences and a Master of Science degree from Texas A&M University – Kingsville in Agriculture Sciences. Professionally Hohlt has worked as a County Extension Agent in rural and urban counties, and currently as an Extension Program Specialist with the Texas Grow! Eat! Go! program. Previous community health initiatives she has coordinated include development and support of a local diabetes self-management, prevention, and awareness educational program; development and coordination of a state-wide healthy weight initiative; development and coordination of county employee wellness programs; initiatives to fight childhood overweight; and coordination of a regional focus on providing education about the importance of family mealtime. Rusty’s work has been recognized with the Award for Superior Service for Texas AgriLife Extension Service (2014 & 2015), and multiple state and national awards with the National Association of Extension 4-H Agents and National Extension Association of Family & Consumer Sciences.
Rusty Hohlt has 10 years of professional experience working in community health education as a part of Texas A&M AgriLife Extension. She received her Bachelor of Science degree from Texas State University in Family and Consumer Sciences and a Master of Science degree from Texas A&M University – Kingsville in Agriculture Sciences. Professionally Hohlt has worked as a County Extension Agent in rural and urban counties, and currently as an Extension Program Specialist with the Texas Grow! Eat! Go! program. Previous community health initiatives she has coordinated include development and support of a local diabetes self-management, prevention, and awareness educational program; development and coordination of a state-wide healthy weight initiative; development and coordination of county employee wellness programs; initiatives to fight childhood overweight; and coordination of a regional focus on providing education about the importance of family mealtime. Rusty’s work has been recognized with the Award for Superior Service for Texas AgriLife Extension Service (2014 & 2015), and multiple state and national awards with the National Association of Extension 4-H Agents and National Extension Association of Family & Consumer Sciences.
Ahfiya Howard
Ahfiya Howard is a current doctoral student in public health at Jackson State University, where she received her undergraduate and graduate degrees in social work. She currently teaches at Jackson State University in the Bachelor of Social Work Program and acts as the field liaison for senior-level students in the field practicum experience. She also works at the Mississippi Economic Policy Center, where she focuses her work on food access and health policy issues, particularly examining Community Eligibility in Mississippi, food deserts and health disparities, among other social policy issues in the state.
Ahfiya Howard is a current doctoral student in public health at Jackson State University, where she received her undergraduate and graduate degrees in social work. She currently teaches at Jackson State University in the Bachelor of Social Work Program and acts as the field liaison for senior-level students in the field practicum experience. She also works at the Mississippi Economic Policy Center, where she focuses her work on food access and health policy issues, particularly examining Community Eligibility in Mississippi, food deserts and health disparities, among other social policy issues in the state.
Emily Keenum
Emily Keenum is the Health Initiative Coordinator for Virginia's Taking Steps to Healthy Steps Healthy Success Early Care and Education Collaboratives (ECELC) childhood obesity prevention project. Virginia’s ECELC project has reached 101 child care programs in 5 regions of the state, providing information, resources, and opportunities for child care and preschool educators interested in improving the health experiences of the children in their care.
Emily Keenum is the Health Initiative Coordinator for Virginia's Taking Steps to Healthy Steps Healthy Success Early Care and Education Collaboratives (ECELC) childhood obesity prevention project. Virginia’s ECELC project has reached 101 child care programs in 5 regions of the state, providing information, resources, and opportunities for child care and preschool educators interested in improving the health experiences of the children in their care.
Debra Kibbe
Debra Kibbe is a Senior Research Associate in the Georgia Health Policy Center at Georgia State University where she has worked since October 2011 on obesity and health-related policy and programs throughout the United States. From 1998 to 2011, Debra served as Director of the Physical Activity and Nutrition (PAN) Program for the International Life Sciences Institute Research Foundation (ILSI RF) headquartered in Washington, D.C. where she coordinated, evaluated and published results from several school, community and health care intervention projects aimed at the prevention and management of pediatric overweight. Prior to joining the PAN program, Debra was the assistant volleyball competition manager for the 1996 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Atlanta, Georgia. Active at the national level, Debra is faculty for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetic’s certificate program on child and adolescent overweight and was a member of the education subcommittee of the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans Implementation Plan initiative. Debra co-chairs the data and evaluation sub-group of the Georgia SHAPE childhood obesity prevention initiative. She is an experienced presenter completing more than 100 presentations throughout the United States and 15 countries on topics ranging from school-based health interventions to social marketing to improving obesity management practice patterns among clinicians. Debra earned her B.S. in Psychology from Hiram College (Ohio), and her M.S. in Personnel & Employment Relations from Georgia State University.
Debra Kibbe is a Senior Research Associate in the Georgia Health Policy Center at Georgia State University where she has worked since October 2011 on obesity and health-related policy and programs throughout the United States. From 1998 to 2011, Debra served as Director of the Physical Activity and Nutrition (PAN) Program for the International Life Sciences Institute Research Foundation (ILSI RF) headquartered in Washington, D.C. where she coordinated, evaluated and published results from several school, community and health care intervention projects aimed at the prevention and management of pediatric overweight. Prior to joining the PAN program, Debra was the assistant volleyball competition manager for the 1996 Olympic and Paralympic Games in Atlanta, Georgia. Active at the national level, Debra is faculty for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetic’s certificate program on child and adolescent overweight and was a member of the education subcommittee of the Physical Activity Guidelines for Americans Implementation Plan initiative. Debra co-chairs the data and evaluation sub-group of the Georgia SHAPE childhood obesity prevention initiative. She is an experienced presenter completing more than 100 presentations throughout the United States and 15 countries on topics ranging from school-based health interventions to social marketing to improving obesity management practice patterns among clinicians. Debra earned her B.S. in Psychology from Hiram College (Ohio), and her M.S. in Personnel & Employment Relations from Georgia State University.
Alice Kirk
Alice Kirk, MPH, Extension Health Specialist I,Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, has been with Extension for almost 19 years. She provides leadership for the development, implementation and evaluation of Extension educational programs for all 254 Texas counties in the areas of childhood overweight and increasing physical activity. Alice serves as a conduit between researched best practices and Extension County based educational programs. She provides oversight to the Statewide Walk Across Texas program and Balancing Food & Play programs. She also supports various grant initiatives including the Transforming Texas Grant in Starr Co. and Texas Grow Eat Go projects. Alice conducts workshops, delivers trainings and presentations at local, state and national levels on Extension health and wellness programs and physical activity. She also serves on various local, state and national committees; including Texas Action for Healthy Kids, HEB Health Advisory Task Force, National Rural Health Association and her son’s local School PTA. Alice has a Bachelor’s degree in Community Health and a Masters in Social and Behavioral Health, both from Texas A&M University.
Alice Kirk, MPH, Extension Health Specialist I,Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service, has been with Extension for almost 19 years. She provides leadership for the development, implementation and evaluation of Extension educational programs for all 254 Texas counties in the areas of childhood overweight and increasing physical activity. Alice serves as a conduit between researched best practices and Extension County based educational programs. She provides oversight to the Statewide Walk Across Texas program and Balancing Food & Play programs. She also supports various grant initiatives including the Transforming Texas Grant in Starr Co. and Texas Grow Eat Go projects. Alice conducts workshops, delivers trainings and presentations at local, state and national levels on Extension health and wellness programs and physical activity. She also serves on various local, state and national committees; including Texas Action for Healthy Kids, HEB Health Advisory Task Force, National Rural Health Association and her son’s local School PTA. Alice has a Bachelor’s degree in Community Health and a Masters in Social and Behavioral Health, both from Texas A&M University.
Kathy Knight
Dr. Kathy Knight is a native Mississippian. She earned the baccalaureate degree in Biology from the University of Mississippi, her masters degree in nutrition from Mississippi State University, and her Ph.D. in Human Nutrition from Auburn University. Dr. Knight is currently Associate Professor in the Department of Nutrition and Hospitality Management at the University of Mississippi. She teaches graduate and undergraduate classes in nutrition and food preparation. In 2007, she was honored with the Thomas Crowe Outstanding Teacher Award for the University’s School of Applied Sciences. Dr. Knight’s research interests center on child nutrition and weight management. In addition to being the PI for the school-based nutrition education program, Eating Good…and Moving Like We Should, she is the PI for the University’s wellness program, Rebel Well. She has also co-authored a laboratory manual for use in beginning food preparation classes. She is married to Dr. Scott Knight and they are the parents of two adult children.
Dr. Kathy Knight is a native Mississippian. She earned the baccalaureate degree in Biology from the University of Mississippi, her masters degree in nutrition from Mississippi State University, and her Ph.D. in Human Nutrition from Auburn University. Dr. Knight is currently Associate Professor in the Department of Nutrition and Hospitality Management at the University of Mississippi. She teaches graduate and undergraduate classes in nutrition and food preparation. In 2007, she was honored with the Thomas Crowe Outstanding Teacher Award for the University’s School of Applied Sciences. Dr. Knight’s research interests center on child nutrition and weight management. In addition to being the PI for the school-based nutrition education program, Eating Good…and Moving Like We Should, she is the PI for the University’s wellness program, Rebel Well. She has also co-authored a laboratory manual for use in beginning food preparation classes. She is married to Dr. Scott Knight and they are the parents of two adult children.
Jerome Kolbo
Dr. Kolbo is a Professor of Social Work within the College of Health at The University of Southern Mississippi (USM). He is the Principal Investigator (PI) of the 2015 Child and Youth Prevalence of Obesity Study (CAYPOS), and has been the PI of the CAYPOS since 2003. The CAYPOS is a collaborative effort between the Mississippi Department of Education, the Mississippi State Department of Health, and USM to establish and monitor the prevalence of obesity biennially among weighted, representative samples of public school students (K-12) in Mississippi. With Co-PIs at Mississippi State University and the University of Mississippi, Dr. Kolbo recently completed work with the Center for Mississippi Health Policy on a five year Robert Wood Johnson Foundation funded initiative to evaluate the impact and effectiveness of recent state legislation requiring schools to implement a number of local wellness policies and coordinated school health programs that are part of the Mississippi Healthy Student Act. This study relied on the CAYPOS data to evaluate the impact and effectiveness of the Act. The findings from these studies have been disseminated through a number of state and national scholarly journals and shared widely by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and the First Lady, Michelle Obama.
Dr. Kolbo is a Professor of Social Work within the College of Health at The University of Southern Mississippi (USM). He is the Principal Investigator (PI) of the 2015 Child and Youth Prevalence of Obesity Study (CAYPOS), and has been the PI of the CAYPOS since 2003. The CAYPOS is a collaborative effort between the Mississippi Department of Education, the Mississippi State Department of Health, and USM to establish and monitor the prevalence of obesity biennially among weighted, representative samples of public school students (K-12) in Mississippi. With Co-PIs at Mississippi State University and the University of Mississippi, Dr. Kolbo recently completed work with the Center for Mississippi Health Policy on a five year Robert Wood Johnson Foundation funded initiative to evaluate the impact and effectiveness of recent state legislation requiring schools to implement a number of local wellness policies and coordinated school health programs that are part of the Mississippi Healthy Student Act. This study relied on the CAYPOS data to evaluate the impact and effectiveness of the Act. The findings from these studies have been disseminated through a number of state and national scholarly journals and shared widely by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and the First Lady, Michelle Obama.
Mike Lopez
Mike Lopez joined the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service’s Family Development and Resource Management unit in 2011. As an Extension Health Specialist, Mike focuses his effort on human populations and the effect of the built environment on healthy living. He provides leadership for the development, implementation, and evaluation of Extension educational programs in the areas of planning for active living communities, physical activity, food access, and obesity. Mike’s educational background includes a B.S. degree in Biomedical Sciences and a Master of Urban Planning (MUP) degree, with a concentration in Active Living and Healthy Communities, both coming from Texas A&M University. He also earned a certificate in Environmental Hazard Management.
Mike Lopez joined the Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service’s Family Development and Resource Management unit in 2011. As an Extension Health Specialist, Mike focuses his effort on human populations and the effect of the built environment on healthy living. He provides leadership for the development, implementation, and evaluation of Extension educational programs in the areas of planning for active living communities, physical activity, food access, and obesity. Mike’s educational background includes a B.S. degree in Biomedical Sciences and a Master of Urban Planning (MUP) degree, with a concentration in Active Living and Healthy Communities, both coming from Texas A&M University. He also earned a certificate in Environmental Hazard Management.
LaCiana McIntyre
LaCiana McIntyre, MS, Health and Wellness Coordinator, The Partnership for a Healthy Mississippi. As the Health and Wellness Coordinator, LaCiana McIntyre is responsible for implementing the Partnership’s signature, interactive childhood obesity prevention program, “Just Have a Ball” in elementary schools throughout the state of Mississippi. The Just Have a Ball program educates 3rd-5th grade students about the importance of healthy nutrition choices and being physically active. As a recent graduate of Mississippi State University, McIntyre holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Kinesiology and a Master of Science degree in Food Science, Nutrition and Health Promotion; along with an extensive passion for creating and promoting wellness throughout Mississippi.
LaCiana McIntyre, MS, Health and Wellness Coordinator, The Partnership for a Healthy Mississippi. As the Health and Wellness Coordinator, LaCiana McIntyre is responsible for implementing the Partnership’s signature, interactive childhood obesity prevention program, “Just Have a Ball” in elementary schools throughout the state of Mississippi. The Just Have a Ball program educates 3rd-5th grade students about the importance of healthy nutrition choices and being physically active. As a recent graduate of Mississippi State University, McIntyre holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Kinesiology and a Master of Science degree in Food Science, Nutrition and Health Promotion; along with an extensive passion for creating and promoting wellness throughout Mississippi.
Donna Meyer
Dr. Donna Meyer currently is Director of Shareholder Advocacy for Mercy Investment Services, Inc.; she actively participates with the Interfaith Center on Corporate Responsibility (ICCR), serving on its board from 2007 to 2013. She uses her expertise in health care and public health to provide leadership for SRI issues such as food and nutrition as well as for Domestic and Global Health. Prior to retirement, Dr. Meyer provided direction for the CHRISTUS Health SRI Program as part of her overall community health responsibilities. Dr. Meyer holds a faculty appointment at the Saint Louis University College for Public Health & Social Justice. She has served on the Board of Directors of a number of health-related organizations. She currently serves on the Board of the Texas Health Institute, as chair of the SRI committee for Salient Partners, as an Advisor to Community Benefit Connect, as a member of the Catholic Health Initiatives Mission and Ministry Committee, and on the University of Texas Research Conflicts of Interest Committee. Dr. Meyer is a Fellow of the American College of Health Care Executives; she earned her BS and MS from the University of Minnesota and her Doctorate from the University of Texas School of Public Health.
Dr. Donna Meyer currently is Director of Shareholder Advocacy for Mercy Investment Services, Inc.; she actively participates with the Interfaith Center on Corporate Responsibility (ICCR), serving on its board from 2007 to 2013. She uses her expertise in health care and public health to provide leadership for SRI issues such as food and nutrition as well as for Domestic and Global Health. Prior to retirement, Dr. Meyer provided direction for the CHRISTUS Health SRI Program as part of her overall community health responsibilities. Dr. Meyer holds a faculty appointment at the Saint Louis University College for Public Health & Social Justice. She has served on the Board of Directors of a number of health-related organizations. She currently serves on the Board of the Texas Health Institute, as chair of the SRI committee for Salient Partners, as an Advisor to Community Benefit Connect, as a member of the Catholic Health Initiatives Mission and Ministry Committee, and on the University of Texas Research Conflicts of Interest Committee. Dr. Meyer is a Fellow of the American College of Health Care Executives; she earned her BS and MS from the University of Minnesota and her Doctorate from the University of Texas School of Public Health.
Adrienne Mundorf
Adrienne Mundorf, MPH is the policy and advocacy manager at the Tulane Prevention Research Center (PRC). Adrienne conducts research on and advocates for evidence-based strategies to improve the health through improvements to the built environment and the promotion of healthy behaviors. She is chair of the New Orleans Food Policy Advisory Committee (FPAC), a coalition of food, nutrition and agriculture-focused organizations and nonprofits with a common goal of equitable access to healthy food among New Orleans residents. Adrienne also leads the PRC’s evaluation of kitchen and garden programming at the Edible Schoolyard New Orleans. In addition to her work with the PRC, Adrienne is a Teaching Associate for the nutrition track at the Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine and manages internationally-focused food access and nutrition projects. Prior to her work in New Orleans, Adrienne worked as a human resources generalist for an architecture firm in Chicago where she started an employee wellness program. Internationally, Adrienne has consulted for GIZ, FAO, the Ministries of Education and Forestry in Malawi, Village Reach, and the National Association of People Living with HIV/AIDS in Malawi on nutrition programming and policy. She served as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Malawi, helping to mobilize community groups and lead trainings on HIV, sustainable agriculture and nutrition. Adrienne received her Master’s in Public Health in Community Nutrition from Tulane University and her undergraduate degree in political science from Kalamazoo College.
Adrienne Mundorf, MPH is the policy and advocacy manager at the Tulane Prevention Research Center (PRC). Adrienne conducts research on and advocates for evidence-based strategies to improve the health through improvements to the built environment and the promotion of healthy behaviors. She is chair of the New Orleans Food Policy Advisory Committee (FPAC), a coalition of food, nutrition and agriculture-focused organizations and nonprofits with a common goal of equitable access to healthy food among New Orleans residents. Adrienne also leads the PRC’s evaluation of kitchen and garden programming at the Edible Schoolyard New Orleans. In addition to her work with the PRC, Adrienne is a Teaching Associate for the nutrition track at the Tulane University School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine and manages internationally-focused food access and nutrition projects. Prior to her work in New Orleans, Adrienne worked as a human resources generalist for an architecture firm in Chicago where she started an employee wellness program. Internationally, Adrienne has consulted for GIZ, FAO, the Ministries of Education and Forestry in Malawi, Village Reach, and the National Association of People Living with HIV/AIDS in Malawi on nutrition programming and policy. She served as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Malawi, helping to mobilize community groups and lead trainings on HIV, sustainable agriculture and nutrition. Adrienne received her Master’s in Public Health in Community Nutrition from Tulane University and her undergraduate degree in political science from Kalamazoo College.
Donna Nichols
Donna Nichols has more than 30 years of public health promotion policy, program, partnership, and practice experience and has held numerous professional, management and leadership positions within three state health agencies and across multiple community settings and sectors. Her academic credentials are in health education and she is a certified health education specialist. Donna is recognized as an influential state and national health promotion leader in the area of health promotion policy analysis and development and has proven success in implementing large scale, evidence-based public health partnership and program initiatives as the former Senior Prevention Policy Analysis with the Texas Department of State Health Services. Currently, she is a faculty associate and community health specialist with the University of Texas, Michael and Susan Dell Center for Health Living, a university-based, nationally recognized research organization aimed at improving children’s health. In addition, Donna is the Health Policy and Partnerships Director for the Directors of Health Promotion and Education, a national non-profit organization aimed at providing and supporting proven health promotion programs and policies nationwide.
Donna Nichols has more than 30 years of public health promotion policy, program, partnership, and practice experience and has held numerous professional, management and leadership positions within three state health agencies and across multiple community settings and sectors. Her academic credentials are in health education and she is a certified health education specialist. Donna is recognized as an influential state and national health promotion leader in the area of health promotion policy analysis and development and has proven success in implementing large scale, evidence-based public health partnership and program initiatives as the former Senior Prevention Policy Analysis with the Texas Department of State Health Services. Currently, she is a faculty associate and community health specialist with the University of Texas, Michael and Susan Dell Center for Health Living, a university-based, nationally recognized research organization aimed at improving children’s health. In addition, Donna is the Health Policy and Partnerships Director for the Directors of Health Promotion and Education, a national non-profit organization aimed at providing and supporting proven health promotion programs and policies nationwide.
D’Andra Bradford Odom
D’Andra Bradford Odom is the Minority Outreach Director at the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals and Southeast Louisiana Health Education Center. She received her Bachelor of Science degree from Grambling State University in Grambling, LA and her Masters of Public Administration (Public Policy) from Southern University in Baton Rouge, LA. She has been working in public health for the State of Louisiana for five years and has over ten years of public policy experience. Mrs. Odom's primary focus is in public health, health disparities, and food access. Her research interests are in the areas of food tourism, childhood obesity, and minority health. She has a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Information Systems from Grambling State University in Grambling, LA and a Masters in Public Administration with a concentration in Public Policy from Southern University and A&M College in Baton Rouge, LA. Mrs. Odom has a strong passion for public health, minority health, policy, and social justice and welcomes the opportunity to share her passion with others. When she is not working in public health (minority health) and policy she enjoys traveling, dining, reading, entertaining family and friends, and running a catering business with her husband.
D’Andra Bradford Odom is the Minority Outreach Director at the Louisiana Department of Health and Hospitals and Southeast Louisiana Health Education Center. She received her Bachelor of Science degree from Grambling State University in Grambling, LA and her Masters of Public Administration (Public Policy) from Southern University in Baton Rouge, LA. She has been working in public health for the State of Louisiana for five years and has over ten years of public policy experience. Mrs. Odom's primary focus is in public health, health disparities, and food access. Her research interests are in the areas of food tourism, childhood obesity, and minority health. She has a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Information Systems from Grambling State University in Grambling, LA and a Masters in Public Administration with a concentration in Public Policy from Southern University and A&M College in Baton Rouge, LA. Mrs. Odom has a strong passion for public health, minority health, policy, and social justice and welcomes the opportunity to share her passion with others. When she is not working in public health (minority health) and policy she enjoys traveling, dining, reading, entertaining family and friends, and running a catering business with her husband.
Julie Parker
Dr. Parker has over 20 years experience working in early childhood and community-based programs. She has most recently been key personnel on a NIH grant that focuses on childhood obesity. The grant sponsors a collaborative project that focuses on health education for young children, families and communities. She is the co-author of an evidence based, integrated early childhood health science curriculum. The curriculum aligns with Next Generation Science Standards and provides children opportunities to use science practices such as asking questions, planning and carrying out investigations, analyzing and interpreting data, using math and computational thinking, and obtaining, evaluating and communicating information, all while teaching about nutrition and physical activity.
Dr. Parker has over 20 years experience working in early childhood and community-based programs. She has most recently been key personnel on a NIH grant that focuses on childhood obesity. The grant sponsors a collaborative project that focuses on health education for young children, families and communities. She is the co-author of an evidence based, integrated early childhood health science curriculum. The curriculum aligns with Next Generation Science Standards and provides children opportunities to use science practices such as asking questions, planning and carrying out investigations, analyzing and interpreting data, using math and computational thinking, and obtaining, evaluating and communicating information, all while teaching about nutrition and physical activity.
Sjonna Paulson
Sjonna Paulson, APR, became the first Director of Communications for the Oklahoma Tobacco Settlement Endowment Trust in November 2007. She is an accredited public relations counselor and holds a bachelor's degree in journalism/public relations. For more than 25 years, Paulson has had an active career in public relations and marketing with a diverse array of for-profits and non-profits organizations receiving both local and national professional awards.
Sjonna Paulson, APR, became the first Director of Communications for the Oklahoma Tobacco Settlement Endowment Trust in November 2007. She is an accredited public relations counselor and holds a bachelor's degree in journalism/public relations. For more than 25 years, Paulson has had an active career in public relations and marketing with a diverse array of for-profits and non-profits organizations receiving both local and national professional awards.
Joseph "Lee" Pearson
Dr. Lee Pearson is the Director of Operations for the SC Institute of Medicine and Public Health, a non-partisan group working to inform policies that improve health and health care in South Carolina. Dr. Pearson has 20 years of experience in addressing public health priorities. He has a considerable administrative background, having led a diverse array of public health programs and initiatives. Dr. Pearson has also served in leadership roles for several statewide efforts, including the state’s obesity prevention initiative. He holds a doctorate in public health from the USC Arnold School of Public Health where he serves as adjunct faculty in the Department of Health Promotion, Education, and Behavior.
Dr. Lee Pearson is the Director of Operations for the SC Institute of Medicine and Public Health, a non-partisan group working to inform policies that improve health and health care in South Carolina. Dr. Pearson has 20 years of experience in addressing public health priorities. He has a considerable administrative background, having led a diverse array of public health programs and initiatives. Dr. Pearson has also served in leadership roles for several statewide efforts, including the state’s obesity prevention initiative. He holds a doctorate in public health from the USC Arnold School of Public Health where he serves as adjunct faculty in the Department of Health Promotion, Education, and Behavior.
Shelby Polk
Shelby Polk is an Associate Professor of Nursing and the Director of Nurse Practitioner Programs (MSN & DNP) at Delta State University Robert E. Smith School of Nursing. She is currently employed as a family nurse practitioner at the Healthy Lifestyle Center in Cleveland, MS. Shelby received a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree from The University of Alabama Birmingham (UAB) in 2009; a Master of Science in Nursing degree from The University Medical Center (UMC) in 2002; national certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC) in 2002; national certification as a Diabetes Educator (CDE) in 2006; and certification as a Patient Educator (CPE) in 2013. In August 2013 the Robert E. Smith School of Nursing at Delta State University was awarded a three-year HRSA grant targeting obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Shelby serves as the Project Director for the Delta Healthy Families Project. The Healthy Lifestyle Center, funded by the HRSA grant, opened in August 2014, with a primary focus on nutrition and physical activity to assist individuals, families, and communities develop healthy lifestyles and improve health outcomes in the Mississippi Delta.
Shelby Polk is an Associate Professor of Nursing and the Director of Nurse Practitioner Programs (MSN & DNP) at Delta State University Robert E. Smith School of Nursing. She is currently employed as a family nurse practitioner at the Healthy Lifestyle Center in Cleveland, MS. Shelby received a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) degree from The University of Alabama Birmingham (UAB) in 2009; a Master of Science in Nursing degree from The University Medical Center (UMC) in 2002; national certification as a Family Nurse Practitioner (FNP-BC) in 2002; national certification as a Diabetes Educator (CDE) in 2006; and certification as a Patient Educator (CPE) in 2013. In August 2013 the Robert E. Smith School of Nursing at Delta State University was awarded a three-year HRSA grant targeting obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Shelby serves as the Project Director for the Delta Healthy Families Project. The Healthy Lifestyle Center, funded by the HRSA grant, opened in August 2014, with a primary focus on nutrition and physical activity to assist individuals, families, and communities develop healthy lifestyles and improve health outcomes in the Mississippi Delta.
Jenny Rasico
Jenny Rasico is the Garden Coordinator of the Flippin Community School Garden ; a dual usage space that includes rabbits, goats, fruit trees, rain water collection , community and classroom beds and a Market Garden. She is also Market Manager for the Flippin Farmers' Market, Treasurer for Marion County Hometown Health ,a SNAP Ed employee at the Marion County Extension Office -working with 3 county school districts in nutrition education (All have gardens or are starting them) , a member of ArCOP ( Arkansas Coalition for Obesity Prevention), and mother of 5 with a growing homestead that includes a garden, fruit trees, chickens, and a goat.
Jenny Rasico is the Garden Coordinator of the Flippin Community School Garden ; a dual usage space that includes rabbits, goats, fruit trees, rain water collection , community and classroom beds and a Market Garden. She is also Market Manager for the Flippin Farmers' Market, Treasurer for Marion County Hometown Health ,a SNAP Ed employee at the Marion County Extension Office -working with 3 county school districts in nutrition education (All have gardens or are starting them) , a member of ArCOP ( Arkansas Coalition for Obesity Prevention), and mother of 5 with a growing homestead that includes a garden, fruit trees, chickens, and a goat.
Desta Reff
Desta Reff is a social justice documentarian and breastfeeding advocate, working to promote public health and policy change in the Mississippi Delta. She currently serves in a joint position as Harvard Law School’s Delta Clinical Fellow and as a Post-Doctoral Research Fellow with the Social Science Research Center at Mississippi State University. While her efforts include a number of important areas such as food access, combatting the school-to-prison pipeline, and minority property rights, her specific focus is early childhood and increasing breastfeeding rates in Mississippi. As one of the state’s only breastfeeding policy advocates, Desta works with local stakeholders to create comprehensive strategies to promote breastfeeding in Mississippi. In only a short time, Desta has seen many policy successes, including the passage of a Mississippi State Senate resolution to support breastfeeding, the introduction of two state breastfeeding bills, and the passage of several municipal resolutions in support of breastfeeding. She is also the founder and co-leader of Clarksdale Baby University, a parenting program that works with families with children 0-3 on building knowledge, strategies, and skills to help their children succeed. In addition to her policy work, Desta is also a visual legal advocate. Her films have screened across the country and have been used in several policy advocacy campaigns. She received her JD from Harvard Law School in 2013 and her BA from the University in Tampa in 2003. She balances her legal and film work with her most important job, being a mother to her two children.
Desta Reff is a social justice documentarian and breastfeeding advocate, working to promote public health and policy change in the Mississippi Delta. She currently serves in a joint position as Harvard Law School’s Delta Clinical Fellow and as a Post-Doctoral Research Fellow with the Social Science Research Center at Mississippi State University. While her efforts include a number of important areas such as food access, combatting the school-to-prison pipeline, and minority property rights, her specific focus is early childhood and increasing breastfeeding rates in Mississippi. As one of the state’s only breastfeeding policy advocates, Desta works with local stakeholders to create comprehensive strategies to promote breastfeeding in Mississippi. In only a short time, Desta has seen many policy successes, including the passage of a Mississippi State Senate resolution to support breastfeeding, the introduction of two state breastfeeding bills, and the passage of several municipal resolutions in support of breastfeeding. She is also the founder and co-leader of Clarksdale Baby University, a parenting program that works with families with children 0-3 on building knowledge, strategies, and skills to help their children succeed. In addition to her policy work, Desta is also a visual legal advocate. Her films have screened across the country and have been used in several policy advocacy campaigns. She received her JD from Harvard Law School in 2013 and her BA from the University in Tampa in 2003. She balances her legal and film work with her most important job, being a mother to her two children.
Beth Richards
Beth Richards serves as Development and Marketing Director for the Safe Routes to School National Partnership (National Partnership). In this role, she manages the fundraising and marketing activities, including corporate sponsorships and cause marketing partnerships, and leads marketing and communications planning and social media campaigns. She helped to create the Fire Up Your Feet pilot program and manages the program’s national expansion and partnerships. In addition, Beth serves as the liaison to the more than 600 partner affiliates of the National Partnership, working with them to expand opportunities for collaboration. Prior to joining the National Partnership in 2010, Beth served as State Vice President of Income Development for the American Cancer Society where she led a team of committed volunteers and staff and was responsible for thirty grassroots events in New Hampshire, raising nearly $4 million. From 2005 to 2008, Beth worked as a consultant on fundraising and advocacy campaigns for such organizations as the Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids, the American Heart Association, Susan G. Komen for the Cure, as a Senior Consultant with M+R Strategic Services and as an independent consultant to multiple arts organizations in Philadelphia and New Hampshire. Before moving to New England in 2004, Beth was a leader in the Philadelphia arts community for more than a decade, serving as executive director of Elfreth’s Alley, a national historic landmark, and as associate director of the Arts & Business Council of the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce.
Beth Richards serves as Development and Marketing Director for the Safe Routes to School National Partnership (National Partnership). In this role, she manages the fundraising and marketing activities, including corporate sponsorships and cause marketing partnerships, and leads marketing and communications planning and social media campaigns. She helped to create the Fire Up Your Feet pilot program and manages the program’s national expansion and partnerships. In addition, Beth serves as the liaison to the more than 600 partner affiliates of the National Partnership, working with them to expand opportunities for collaboration. Prior to joining the National Partnership in 2010, Beth served as State Vice President of Income Development for the American Cancer Society where she led a team of committed volunteers and staff and was responsible for thirty grassroots events in New Hampshire, raising nearly $4 million. From 2005 to 2008, Beth worked as a consultant on fundraising and advocacy campaigns for such organizations as the Campaign for Tobacco Free Kids, the American Heart Association, Susan G. Komen for the Cure, as a Senior Consultant with M+R Strategic Services and as an independent consultant to multiple arts organizations in Philadelphia and New Hampshire. Before moving to New England in 2004, Beth was a leader in the Philadelphia arts community for more than a decade, serving as executive director of Elfreth’s Alley, a national historic landmark, and as associate director of the Arts & Business Council of the Greater Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce.
Tom Root
Tom Root is the CEO and Founder of HOPSports. Inc., which is recognized by First Lady Michelle Obama as a curative solution to childhood obesity. The recipient of over $20 Million in grant funding, HOPSports has been a repeated program choice for its sustainability and research-proven efficacy. For over a decade the HOPSports Training System has been the cornerstone of Coordinated School Health models in schools, after school programs, health facilities, and recreation centers in over 2,000 sites nationwide. Together with partners including PHIT America, the NFL, WNBA, MLB, USDA, Blue Cross Blue Shield, the American College of Sports Medicine, US Rowing and USA Volleyball, HOPSports offers a digital Coordinated School Health Platform which integrates local culture and curriculum in a research-proven wellness model. Tom’s global worldview combines advocacy, publishing and speaking to create substantive behavior change. Most recently Tom contributed a foreword to the 2014 Sagamore publication “Physical Education and Health: Global Perspectives and Best Practice”. As the founding sponsor of the 2010 Global Forum for Physical Education Pedagogy (GoFPEP) in Grundy Center, Iowa, Tom looks forward to GoFPEP 2016 hosted by Turkey and endorsed by over 100 universities and institutions world-wide . Recent keynote addresses include the International Conference in Sport Coaching Science (Taiwan, 2010), the 14th Commonwealth International Sports Science Congress (India, 2010), National Sport University
(Taiwan, 2010), the 5th Asia-Pacific Conference (Shanghai, 2011), the International Forum of Physical Education and Sports Science
(IFPESS), (India, 2012), and GoFPEP 2012 and 2014 (in Germany and South Africa respectfully).
Tom Root is the CEO and Founder of HOPSports. Inc., which is recognized by First Lady Michelle Obama as a curative solution to childhood obesity. The recipient of over $20 Million in grant funding, HOPSports has been a repeated program choice for its sustainability and research-proven efficacy. For over a decade the HOPSports Training System has been the cornerstone of Coordinated School Health models in schools, after school programs, health facilities, and recreation centers in over 2,000 sites nationwide. Together with partners including PHIT America, the NFL, WNBA, MLB, USDA, Blue Cross Blue Shield, the American College of Sports Medicine, US Rowing and USA Volleyball, HOPSports offers a digital Coordinated School Health Platform which integrates local culture and curriculum in a research-proven wellness model. Tom’s global worldview combines advocacy, publishing and speaking to create substantive behavior change. Most recently Tom contributed a foreword to the 2014 Sagamore publication “Physical Education and Health: Global Perspectives and Best Practice”. As the founding sponsor of the 2010 Global Forum for Physical Education Pedagogy (GoFPEP) in Grundy Center, Iowa, Tom looks forward to GoFPEP 2016 hosted by Turkey and endorsed by over 100 universities and institutions world-wide . Recent keynote addresses include the International Conference in Sport Coaching Science (Taiwan, 2010), the 14th Commonwealth International Sports Science Congress (India, 2010), National Sport University
(Taiwan, 2010), the 5th Asia-Pacific Conference (Shanghai, 2011), the International Forum of Physical Education and Sports Science
(IFPESS), (India, 2012), and GoFPEP 2012 and 2014 (in Germany and South Africa respectfully).
Doreleena Sammons-Hackett
Doreleena Sammons Hackett, SM, CPM (aka Doreleena Sammons-Posey), Policy, Environment and Systems (PES) Change Director at the Directors of Health Promotion and Education (DHPE) Doreleena Sammons Hackett is responsible for providing support to programs and practitioners at state level on health policy and systems change. She provides on-going technical assistance to Systems Change for HealthTM (SCH) trained sites and state health agency (SHA) program staff to promote policy, environmental, and systems change approaches for subject matter experts. She has over 30 years of experience in chronic disease prevention and health promotion program development and implementation including nutrition, cardiovascular disease prevention, women’s health, health education, physical activity and program integration. She is Certified Master Trainer in Chronic Disease Self-Management (as instructed by Stanford University Patient Education Research Center) and a Certified Public Manager (CPM) from Rutgers, The State University. Doreleena Sammons Hackett received her Bachelor’s Degree in pre-medicine from Bennett College for Women in Greensboro, NC and her Master’s Degree in public health nutrition from the Harvard School of Public Health in Boston, MA. She spent 10 years working for the Supplemental Food Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC), which began in a rural health department in NC, to becoming the WIC Director for the State of Georgia. Her career also includes being an Independent Public Health Consultant providing technical assistance; grant and proposal development; budgeting; state/federal grant process; coalition building, team building; and training to Minority Community-Based Organizations (MCBOs) and Faith-Based Organizations (FBOs). Mrs. Hackett has worked extensively with African American women on chronic disease prevention and health promotion including nutrition programs. She has also has been a Scientific Peer Reviewer for the Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas (CPRIT) on cancer prevention grants to fund groundbreaking cancer research and prevention programs and services in Texas. She has numerous publications and awards and has dedicated her life and career to public health and health equity for at-risk populations.
Doreleena Sammons Hackett, SM, CPM (aka Doreleena Sammons-Posey), Policy, Environment and Systems (PES) Change Director at the Directors of Health Promotion and Education (DHPE) Doreleena Sammons Hackett is responsible for providing support to programs and practitioners at state level on health policy and systems change. She provides on-going technical assistance to Systems Change for HealthTM (SCH) trained sites and state health agency (SHA) program staff to promote policy, environmental, and systems change approaches for subject matter experts. She has over 30 years of experience in chronic disease prevention and health promotion program development and implementation including nutrition, cardiovascular disease prevention, women’s health, health education, physical activity and program integration. She is Certified Master Trainer in Chronic Disease Self-Management (as instructed by Stanford University Patient Education Research Center) and a Certified Public Manager (CPM) from Rutgers, The State University. Doreleena Sammons Hackett received her Bachelor’s Degree in pre-medicine from Bennett College for Women in Greensboro, NC and her Master’s Degree in public health nutrition from the Harvard School of Public Health in Boston, MA. She spent 10 years working for the Supplemental Food Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC), which began in a rural health department in NC, to becoming the WIC Director for the State of Georgia. Her career also includes being an Independent Public Health Consultant providing technical assistance; grant and proposal development; budgeting; state/federal grant process; coalition building, team building; and training to Minority Community-Based Organizations (MCBOs) and Faith-Based Organizations (FBOs). Mrs. Hackett has worked extensively with African American women on chronic disease prevention and health promotion including nutrition programs. She has also has been a Scientific Peer Reviewer for the Cancer Prevention and Research Institute of Texas (CPRIT) on cancer prevention grants to fund groundbreaking cancer research and prevention programs and services in Texas. She has numerous publications and awards and has dedicated her life and career to public health and health equity for at-risk populations.
Natalie Talis
Natalie Talis serves as the Policy Associate for the National Farm to School Network (NFSN). In this role, Natalie supports farm to school advocacy efforts by collaborating with NFSN core partners (staff, regional leads, state leads and advisors), partner organizations and grassroots community members. Natalie provides expertise around public health, education and state policies. A native of Cleveland, OH, she received a Master of Public Health in Health Policy from the George Washington University. Natalie is based in Washington, DC. and serves as the Policy Associate for the National Farm to School Network (NFSN). In this role, Natalie supports farm to school advocacy efforts by collaborating with NFSN core partners (staff, regional leads, state leads and advisors), partner organizations and grassroots community members. Natalie provides expertise around public health, education and state policies. A native of Cleveland, OH, she received a Master of Public Health in Health Policy from the George Washington University. Natalie is based in Washington, DC.
Natalie Talis serves as the Policy Associate for the National Farm to School Network (NFSN). In this role, Natalie supports farm to school advocacy efforts by collaborating with NFSN core partners (staff, regional leads, state leads and advisors), partner organizations and grassroots community members. Natalie provides expertise around public health, education and state policies. A native of Cleveland, OH, she received a Master of Public Health in Health Policy from the George Washington University. Natalie is based in Washington, DC. and serves as the Policy Associate for the National Farm to School Network (NFSN). In this role, Natalie supports farm to school advocacy efforts by collaborating with NFSN core partners (staff, regional leads, state leads and advisors), partner organizations and grassroots community members. Natalie provides expertise around public health, education and state policies. A native of Cleveland, OH, she received a Master of Public Health in Health Policy from the George Washington University. Natalie is based in Washington, DC.
Rebecca Turner
Rebecca Turner is a registered dietitian, nutritionist, and a certified specialist in sports dietetics (CSSD) with the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Using science based food and behavior strategies, Rebecca helps individuals master mind over fork and develop a positive relationship with food that enhances overall wellbeing and athletic performance. She serves as nutrition affairs program manager for the Southeast Dairy Association, where she conducts television, radio and print interviews on nutrition throughout Mississippi and Louisiana. As a credible resource, she is a columnist for the Clarion Ledger’s fitness page and appears on WLBT Midday twice monthly. She is the official nutritionist for Mississippi Public Broadcasting’s healthy cooking show, Fit to Eat. Frequently, she contributes to EatJackson.com, Well-Being Magazine, Parents and Kids Magazine and others. Rebecca extends her nutrition expertise past the personal plate and into the community to help seek solutions to end hunger in Mississippi. She serves as a board member for the Mississippi Food Network, the only Feeding America food bank in the state. Rebecca is also a key leader of the Hunger Free Jackson Coalition, active in Mississippians for Health and Wellness, and Mississippi Action for Healthy Kids. Rebecca graduated from the University of Southern Mississippi with both a Bachelor and Master of Science degree in nutrition and food systems. Awarded Mississippi Recognized Young Dietitian of the Year, 2012 and received the Circle of Excellence Award from SUDIA, 2014.
Rebecca Turner is a registered dietitian, nutritionist, and a certified specialist in sports dietetics (CSSD) with the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Using science based food and behavior strategies, Rebecca helps individuals master mind over fork and develop a positive relationship with food that enhances overall wellbeing and athletic performance. She serves as nutrition affairs program manager for the Southeast Dairy Association, where she conducts television, radio and print interviews on nutrition throughout Mississippi and Louisiana. As a credible resource, she is a columnist for the Clarion Ledger’s fitness page and appears on WLBT Midday twice monthly. She is the official nutritionist for Mississippi Public Broadcasting’s healthy cooking show, Fit to Eat. Frequently, she contributes to EatJackson.com, Well-Being Magazine, Parents and Kids Magazine and others. Rebecca extends her nutrition expertise past the personal plate and into the community to help seek solutions to end hunger in Mississippi. She serves as a board member for the Mississippi Food Network, the only Feeding America food bank in the state. Rebecca is also a key leader of the Hunger Free Jackson Coalition, active in Mississippians for Health and Wellness, and Mississippi Action for Healthy Kids. Rebecca graduated from the University of Southern Mississippi with both a Bachelor and Master of Science degree in nutrition and food systems. Awarded Mississippi Recognized Young Dietitian of the Year, 2012 and received the Circle of Excellence Award from SUDIA, 2014.
Tameka Ivory Walls
Tameka Ivory Walls is a Bureau Director with the Mississippi Delta Health (MDHC) Collaborative, Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH). She received her Bachelor of Science in Biology and Master of Science in Environmental Science from Mississippi Valley State University. Currently, she is pursuing a PhD in Public Health. Prior to joining MDHC, she worked as a Special Projects Officer with the Office of Oral Health at MSDH. She successfully completed the New Leader Program in Leadership and Management with USDA Graduate School. She was honored by CDC and other agencies as an Emerging Leader in Environmental Public Health. Mrs. Walls performed water quality research with USDA in Stoneville, MS. Recently, she managed the research project that evaluated an alternate method for human papillomavirus (HPV) screening recommending strategies to decrease cervical cancer rates in the Delta. She served as Delta Regional Director of the Mississippi Partnership Comprehensive Cancer Coalition, Community Health Advisor, and has been successful in maintaining partnerships with agencies that promote prevention and provide services to communities affected by cancers and cardiovascular diseases. She has facilitated alliances and collaborations with churches, healthcare systems, community based organizations, policy makers, and community health workers. Her research experience includes cancer, cardiovascular disease and metabolic disease risk prevention in high-risk populations. Mrs. Walls, a results-driven and team oriented professional, has worked in the Mississippi Delta training, directing, and leading diverse groups.
Tameka Ivory Walls is a Bureau Director with the Mississippi Delta Health (MDHC) Collaborative, Mississippi State Department of Health (MSDH). She received her Bachelor of Science in Biology and Master of Science in Environmental Science from Mississippi Valley State University. Currently, she is pursuing a PhD in Public Health. Prior to joining MDHC, she worked as a Special Projects Officer with the Office of Oral Health at MSDH. She successfully completed the New Leader Program in Leadership and Management with USDA Graduate School. She was honored by CDC and other agencies as an Emerging Leader in Environmental Public Health. Mrs. Walls performed water quality research with USDA in Stoneville, MS. Recently, she managed the research project that evaluated an alternate method for human papillomavirus (HPV) screening recommending strategies to decrease cervical cancer rates in the Delta. She served as Delta Regional Director of the Mississippi Partnership Comprehensive Cancer Coalition, Community Health Advisor, and has been successful in maintaining partnerships with agencies that promote prevention and provide services to communities affected by cancers and cardiovascular diseases. She has facilitated alliances and collaborations with churches, healthcare systems, community based organizations, policy makers, and community health workers. Her research experience includes cancer, cardiovascular disease and metabolic disease risk prevention in high-risk populations. Mrs. Walls, a results-driven and team oriented professional, has worked in the Mississippi Delta training, directing, and leading diverse groups.
Veronyca Washington
Veronyca Washington, a Memphis, TN native, started with the West TN Delta Initiative in 2011 as a Community Health Educator and is now Program Supervisor. In this role she has increased program partnerships by 30% & expanded program reach by 25%. She completed her Master of Science in Public Health at Meharry Medical College in Nashville, TN in 2010 honing in her commitment to underserved communities.
Veronyca Washington, a Memphis, TN native, started with the West TN Delta Initiative in 2011 as a Community Health Educator and is now Program Supervisor. In this role she has increased program partnerships by 30% & expanded program reach by 25%. She completed her Master of Science in Public Health at Meharry Medical College in Nashville, TN in 2010 honing in her commitment to underserved communities.
Tonitrice Wicks
Tonitrice Wicks has a true passion for promoting nutrition and physical activity among children and their families. Ms. Wicks earned her Bachelor’s of Science in Health Care Administration and Master’s of Public Health in Epidemiology and Biostatistics from Jackson State University. She is currently a doctoral candidate completing a Ph.D. in Clinical Health Sciences from the University of Mississippi Medical Center. She has over eleven years of public health experience with a special interest in obesity prevention, health disparities, and food access. Ms. Wicks served as a Division Director of Community and School Health at the Mississippi State Department of Health for three years. Currently, she serves as the Cooperative Extension Program Community Resource Development Educator at Alcorn State University.
Tonitrice Wicks has a true passion for promoting nutrition and physical activity among children and their families. Ms. Wicks earned her Bachelor’s of Science in Health Care Administration and Master’s of Public Health in Epidemiology and Biostatistics from Jackson State University. She is currently a doctoral candidate completing a Ph.D. in Clinical Health Sciences from the University of Mississippi Medical Center. She has over eleven years of public health experience with a special interest in obesity prevention, health disparities, and food access. Ms. Wicks served as a Division Director of Community and School Health at the Mississippi State Department of Health for three years. Currently, she serves as the Cooperative Extension Program Community Resource Development Educator at Alcorn State University.
Cheryl A. Williams
Cheryl A. Williams, Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, has a distinct background in clinical nutrition, academia, health promotion and behavior change. Her current responsibilities at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta include coordination of education and training for
healthcare providers to improve their skills related to managing childhood obesity comorbidities and encouraging healthy habits and behavior change. Cheryl serves as a content expert for health promotion materials, including those for community marketing campaigns and the school setting. She is also the project lead for the early childhood obesity prevention program Prevention at the Pediatrician’s Office.
Cheryl A. Williams, Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, has a distinct background in clinical nutrition, academia, health promotion and behavior change. Her current responsibilities at Children's Healthcare of Atlanta include coordination of education and training for
healthcare providers to improve their skills related to managing childhood obesity comorbidities and encouraging healthy habits and behavior change. Cheryl serves as a content expert for health promotion materials, including those for community marketing campaigns and the school setting. She is also the project lead for the early childhood obesity prevention program Prevention at the Pediatrician’s Office.
Sunny Young
Sunny Young is the director of Edufood Consulting LLC, a school food reform consulting firm, program director of Good Food for Oxford Schools (GFOS), a project that combines farm to school initiatives, school gardens, and nutrition education, and state lead of the Mississippi Farm to School Network. Her passion for good, clean, and fair food arose during a semester working on a fair trade vanilla farm in Madagascar. Young left the farm knowing that she wanted to dedicate her career to food justice. After graduating college, Young moved to Boulder, CO, where she worked with Chef Ann Cooper, also known as the “Renegade Lunch Lady,” in her mission to change the way kids eat. Alongside Cooper, Young became a Jill-of-all-trades, working with the Boulder Valley School District’s School Food Project and coordinating Cooper’s Food Family Farming Foundation (F3). In 2012, Young moved to the state of Mississippi where she runs the Oxford School District’s GFOS initiative, the first school food reform program of its kind in the state. Additionally, Young serves as the National Farm to School Network’s Mississippi liaison, a role that allows her to work toward creating widespread change by bringing lessons learned from Oxford’s programs to all of Mississippi. The Mississippi Farm to School Network, funded by the WK Kellogg Foundation, will create programming, networking opportunities, and foster policy change to increase the practice of farm to school across the state of Mississippi.
Sunny Young is the director of Edufood Consulting LLC, a school food reform consulting firm, program director of Good Food for Oxford Schools (GFOS), a project that combines farm to school initiatives, school gardens, and nutrition education, and state lead of the Mississippi Farm to School Network. Her passion for good, clean, and fair food arose during a semester working on a fair trade vanilla farm in Madagascar. Young left the farm knowing that she wanted to dedicate her career to food justice. After graduating college, Young moved to Boulder, CO, where she worked with Chef Ann Cooper, also known as the “Renegade Lunch Lady,” in her mission to change the way kids eat. Alongside Cooper, Young became a Jill-of-all-trades, working with the Boulder Valley School District’s School Food Project and coordinating Cooper’s Food Family Farming Foundation (F3). In 2012, Young moved to the state of Mississippi where she runs the Oxford School District’s GFOS initiative, the first school food reform program of its kind in the state. Additionally, Young serves as the National Farm to School Network’s Mississippi liaison, a role that allows her to work toward creating widespread change by bringing lessons learned from Oxford’s programs to all of Mississippi. The Mississippi Farm to School Network, funded by the WK Kellogg Foundation, will create programming, networking opportunities, and foster policy change to increase the practice of farm to school across the state of Mississippi.
Lei Zhang
Dr. Lei Zhang was appointed Director of the Office of Health Data and Research in November 2007. He is responsible for directing and providing data and research support to the Maternal and Child Health, Oral Health, Chronic Disease, and Tobacco Control Programs. Prior to his current assignment, he served as a Bureau Director and Business Systems Analyst at the MSDH. He has also held adjunct academic appointments at the University of Mississippi Medical Center, the University of Southern Mississippi, and Jackson State University. Dr. Zhang earned his PhD and Master of Science in Preventive Medicine from the University of Mississippi and an MBA from the University of Louisiana at Monroe. He is also a certified public manager.
Dr. Lei Zhang was appointed Director of the Office of Health Data and Research in November 2007. He is responsible for directing and providing data and research support to the Maternal and Child Health, Oral Health, Chronic Disease, and Tobacco Control Programs. Prior to his current assignment, he served as a Bureau Director and Business Systems Analyst at the MSDH. He has also held adjunct academic appointments at the University of Mississippi Medical Center, the University of Southern Mississippi, and Jackson State University. Dr. Zhang earned his PhD and Master of Science in Preventive Medicine from the University of Mississippi and an MBA from the University of Louisiana at Monroe. He is also a certified public manager.
Rachel Zucker
Rachel Zucker has a Master of Public Health in Health Behavior from the Gillings School of Global Public Health at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She received her undergraduate degree from Carleton College in Psychology. Rachel first joined Prevention Partners as an intern in June 2013. She is now their Research & Evaluation Coordinator and ensures that Prevention Partners’ recommendations for policies, benefits, and environmental changes to support tobacco-free environments, physical activity, good nutrition, and a culture of wellness for employees are backed by strong, current evidence in the public health field. Rachel also develops and reviews the assessments for Prevention Partners’ suite of products and is involved in product development and continuous improvement. In her free time, Rachel can be found exploring North Carolina, hiking, running, watching stand-up comedy, and reading.
Rachel Zucker has a Master of Public Health in Health Behavior from the Gillings School of Global Public Health at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She received her undergraduate degree from Carleton College in Psychology. Rachel first joined Prevention Partners as an intern in June 2013. She is now their Research & Evaluation Coordinator and ensures that Prevention Partners’ recommendations for policies, benefits, and environmental changes to support tobacco-free environments, physical activity, good nutrition, and a culture of wellness for employees are backed by strong, current evidence in the public health field. Rachel also develops and reviews the assessments for Prevention Partners’ suite of products and is involved in product development and continuous improvement. In her free time, Rachel can be found exploring North Carolina, hiking, running, watching stand-up comedy, and reading.
