Principal Investigator/Program Director and Hawaii Lead Investigator
Institution: University of Hawaii Manoa; Human Nutrition, Food and Animal Sciences
Education:
- BA Biology, Beloit College, Wisconsin
- MS Nutrition, Cornell University, New York
- PhD Nutrition, Cornell University, New York
- Post-Doctoral Work, Public Health, University of Hawaii, Honolulu
What early experiences influenced you to work in childhood obesity prevention?
Early work in the Caribbean, on volunteer work camps, sparked my interest in diverse cultures, environments, lifestyles and health.
What advice would you give high school or undergraduate students that want to get into your professional field?
Follow your passion & instincts – observe, and learn from nature.
What do you think the Pacific Islanders will gain from the CHL program?
CHL’s approach integrates, identifies patterns and systems, and prioritizes that which is healthful in the native and local environment, in the broadest sense of the term “healthful” and “environment”. Being integrative and comprehensive we gather strength from each other, and are a unified force to provide positive sustainable change.
What does an average day look like for you?
An average day involves morning yoga; morning email; meetings with students, staff and colleagues; writing; dinner with family and friends; an evening run; more email; reading; and sleep!
What advice would you give caregivers of young children about best lifelong health practices related to CHL-connected efforts?
Look for healthful foods and activities that you and the children enjoy, and can eat/do on a regular basis. Try new ones regularly, enjoy them together, and have a “usual” routine, in order to establish a sustainable healthy lifestyle.
What do you love about Hawai’i?
I have lived in Hawaii, since 1988. I love the brilliance of the sun, the warmth of the ocean, the scents of the flowers, and the kindness of the people.