Dr. Sandra BastinDr. Sandra Bastin, Extension professor in the Department of Nutrition and Food Science(NFS), has been selected to be a member of the National Institute for Food and Agriculture (NIFA) Nutrition and Health Committee for Program Planning and Guidance.

She was chosen for her professional experience, her expertise, and her expressed interest in service to Extension. Bastin's years of service, key responsibilities and geographic representation were also considered.

The purpose of this committee that was formed in 2008 is to work with NIFA national program leaders (NPL) to strategically position extension programs for the future. The 12 committee members that are chosen for three year terms represent all regions of the country and are from the 1862 and 1890 land-grant institutions.

According to the NIFA website, the committee's efforts are to: "1) ensure an abundant and safe food supply for all; and 2) help families, youth, and individuals to become physically, mentally, and emotionally healthy."

The committee's work is further divided into five subcommittees/key activities:

  • evaluation indicators;
  • curriculum oversight;
  • nutrition and physical activity policies and programs;
  • professional training; and
  • communication and resource links.

Bastin will serve on the curriculum development/review subcommittee.

Dr. Janet MullinsDr. Janet Mullins, Extension professor in the Department of Nutrition and Food Science, will serve on the evaluation subcommittee. The goal of this subcommittee is to develop measures to capture the outcomes of interventions that seek to improve nutrition, health and physical activity.

"Our department is certainly honored [that] both Janet and Sandra have been selected to be involved in the NIFA Nutrition and Health Committee for Program Planning and Guidance," said Dr. Janet Kurzynske,  department chair.

To read more about the NIFA Nutrition and Health Committee take a look at their brochure at: http://www.nifa.usda.gov/nea/food/pdfs/health_committee.pdf