What is your background 

I am originally from Bottineau, North Dakota and graduated from high school in 2009. I graduated from the University of North Dakota in 2013 with my Bachelor of Science degree in Dietetics. After graduation, I began working as a licensed, registered dietitian for the Fargo VA Health Center part-time while I pursued my Master of Public Health (MPH) degree through NDSU. I graduated with my MPH in May 2015.

What did you specialize in at NDSU

My specialization was health promotion.

How did the NDSU MPH prepare you for the workforce

After completing my MPH degree, I was able to expand and create my current dietitian position within the VA, going to full-time employment, while opening up access for nutrition in Bismarck. The program helped develop skills and understanding on how to promote health in various populations while taking the various social and behavioral aspects into account. The program provided resources for collaboration with community partners and the skills necessary to grow these relationships to improve health of various populations.

What is your current position or academic pursuit

I continue to work as a licensed, registered clinical dietitian for the Fargo VA Health Center, based in Bismarck at the community based outpatient clinic. My primary duties include direct nutrition education with Veterans regarding a wide variety of health aspects and working in an interdisciplinary team to help individuals enhance their health. I am hoping that soon I can become a Certified Diabetes Educator (CDE).

How are you impacting the health of North Dakotans 

By offering Veterans in North Dakota information about the positive effects of primary prevention on disease processes through health promotion and disease prevention, we are able to improve health outcomes.