A Bridge to Diversity in Nutrition Training

Abstract

Data from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics indicates little diversity amongst registered dietitians and students training in nutrition currently and historically. The new national strategy and federal agency priorities recommend diversification of the nutrition workforce as a means of strengthening the practice to meet the needs of a more diverse nation – necessary to address disparities in nutrition and nutrition-related diseases. Importantly, innovation in research results from teams that are diverse, reinforcing the necessity of diversity in the nutrition workforce. We conducted Bridging the Gap 2, an intensive nutrition research program, to recruit undergraduates from groups underrepresented in nutrition and higher education. The 10-week program provided hands-on research experience with faculty mentors, professional development, and exposure to different areas of nutrition and food-related careers. Participants received a complimentary meal plan and housing on the campus of a 4-year university. The pilot cohort (n=6) included mostly women and half identified as Hispanic/Latino. Exit survey data indicated that the majority were somewhat or extremely satisfied with the program. Qualitative responses highlighted areas for improvement including support for transportation costs, a desire for more nutrition education, and more structured daily research activities. At the conclusion of the program 50% of students who were not nutrition majors initially, indicated that they will switch to the major. The pilot nutrition research program generated positive results that indicate the ability of targeted programming to engage those underrepresented in or not studying nutrition and may be important to diversify the nutrition workforce.