In honor of black history month, I want to highlight the achievements of dietitian and educator, Gladys Jennings. Mrs. Jennings has a Bachelor's and Master's in Dietetics and has dedicated her career to research and health promotion through nutrition. Her research focuses on safety and improving nutrition among people of African descent. In addition to her dynamic role in academia at Washington State University, Mrs. Jennings' philanthropy includes contributing and fundraising for the National Organization of Blacks in Dietetics and Nutrition (NOBIDAN) and WSU's cultural center. As of 2008, at the age of 83, this inspirational woman had retired from her unprecedented presidency at WSU and continues to work as a self-employed nutrition consultant. There are not many blacks in the field of dietetics, which is one reason I am encouraged to pursue a career in this field. We are told time and again that African Americans are at a higher risk for several chronic conditions, including kidney disease, hypertension, and type 2 diabetes. Unfortunately, this dogma seems to have become the norm in the news and in classrooms across the country. I'm inclined to believe that these statistics are not an indication that our "blackness" makes us more susceptible to these illnesses, but rather an indication that somewhere there is a disconnect or discrepancy. Despite the progress that has been made in society, racism is still very much alive and the scientific community is not the only one to gloss over this fact. It may play out differently now in some cases, but the impact is quite similar. Racism, and the life stressors that come along with it, contribute to poorer health outcomes, period. To address and counter this, it is essential that we are represented in the area of nutrition and dietetics. We need voices to help interpret and explain the results of these scientific studies. Voices to advocate for programs and initiatives that foster healthier development of our children, so that they may grow up and become productive adults. As a Dietitian, I want to show that when equipped with the knowledge and resources, chronic illness in the black community can be prevented. Too much of the time, diagnosis comes too late. Whether this delay is by choice or due to a lack of health insurance coverage, it is unfavorable for prognosis. It is much easier and more cost effective to prevent the perils that accompany unhealthy dietary habits and a lack of physical activity. Educating is key. So, let us celebrate Mrs. Jennings, who has made great strides in tackling the health disparities that exist. It's a great battle and we must remain armed (by staying informed on health issues) so that we may continue to challenge and reject the "norms" that are forced upon us. Check out these recent posts:
9 Comments
tee
2/11/2014 08:41:11 am
I could not have expressed this any better myself. Excellent perspective.
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Alena Hickman
2/24/2014 06:50:03 am
Wow, I'm flattered...teehee =)
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Shani
2/11/2014 09:11:20 am
Sad, but true. We need more people, like you, who are willing to speak up, speak out, advocate, and act on our behalf! Your efforts are greatly appreciated!
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Alena Hickman
2/24/2014 06:49:08 am
Thank you, Shani.
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Mom
2/11/2014 06:57:00 pm
Wow! Impressive! It seems that Washington State University will need a replacementfor Mrs. Jennings. Interested?...
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Alena Hickman
2/24/2014 06:45:28 am
I just might be ;-)
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Karen Martin
2/23/2014 02:11:53 am
Thank you for this - not only the information about Mrs. Jennings but for your insight and wisdom regarding nutrition and your sincere desire to make positive changes in all aspects of health and nutrition for our people; political, spiritual and physical.
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Alena Hickman
2/24/2014 06:48:36 am
Thanks for your feedback! I shall carry on--may His will be done.
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7/9/2016 11:39:22 pm
This is a indicator of education level and national standards of practice.
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AuthorHello there, my name is Alena and I am a Registered Dietitian! This blog is a platform through which I can share my knowledge and perspectives on a variety of nutrition-related topics. Feel free to contribute by commenting. Archives
November 2021
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