Tell us about your job.
I'm the Nutritionist-Dietitian for FamilyCare Health Plans, a Coordinated Care Organization in Portland, Oregon. My position is responsible for developing and supporting innovative programs and interventions to improve the health of FamilyCare Health Plan members. As a member of the Health and Quality department, I have the opportunity to explore how clinical health measures are impacted by diet and nutrition. In addition to coordinating a dietitian internship program with Oregon State University, I also provide support for primary care providers, primary care clinics, and RDNs in our service area.
What do you find most interesting about your job?
I have the opportunity to impact change at the patient, organizational, community, and policy levels. On a daily basis you might find me developing education materials for patients and providers, making recommendations for Medicaid and Medicare benefits, fostering relationships with key community-based and public health organizations, and developing initiatives to meet quality metrics. I am also a part of my company’s employee wellness committee, which creates programming for internal wellness education.
How did you get into this field?
Before joining FamilyCare last year, I coordinated the WIC clinic in Clark County, WA for 5 years. I have a degree in Public Health Nutrition, so I enjoy program coordination and policy development and being able to look at these through the nutrition lens.
Where were you born and raised?
I was born in Lansing, Michigan and raised just south of there in Jackson, Michigan. I moved to the Pacific Northwest in 1996 after graduating from high school.
Where did you go to college and/or complete an intership?
I did my undergraduate work at University of Portland in Portland, Oregon, my Masters degree in Public Health Nutrition at the University of Washington in Seattle, Washington, and my internship at Oregon Health and Science University in Portland, Oregon.
Besides your profession, what are your hobbies?
Zumba, yoga, boating and relaxing on the Columbia River, attending Broadway Musicals and movies.
What are your favorite foods?
Thai, Mexican, Indian and Vietnamese foods, and any food that is new and interesting! There is so much to choose from at the Portland food scene, including food carts.
What is on your bucket list?
I want to travel to Europe and South America.
How long have you been a member of NEP, and why did you join?
I joined the NEP DPG when I joined FamilyCare in April 2014. I was given the opportunity to join several DPGs, and I knew effective communication of nutrition education would be crucial to my success.
Are there any other interesting things you would like to share with NEP members?
I inherited my grandmother’s spoon collection, which included utensils from all around the world.