Experienced Program Nutritionist with 10+ years of expertise in providing nutritional care, breastfeeding support, and health education within WIC programs. Proven ability to lead, develop educational resources, and collaborate with healthcare professionals to promote participant health outcomes. Passionate about community health and culturally sensitive care.
Overview
13
13
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Senior Nutritionist
WIC
01.2023 - Current
Senior Nutritionist January 2022 – Present WIC Program, Fall River MA
Plan, supervise, and evaluate the nutrition component of the WIC program to ensure compliance with federal regulations and state policies, including areas such as nutritional risk determination, counseling, and food package prescriptions.
Develop and implement local program nutrition procedures based on state WIC policies and guidelines.
Recruit, hire (in collaboration with Program Director), train, and supervise nutritionists and nutrition assistants, ensuring effective service delivery and adherence to program standards.
Mentor and guide staff in providing comprehensive nutrition services and education to WIC participants, ensuring that staff maintain up-to-date knowledge and skills through annual Continuing Education Units (CEUs) and annual performance reviews.
Develop and manage nutrition education strategies, including individual and group follow-up sessions, and oversee the planning of nutrition education at Farmers' Markets.
Collaborate with the Breastfeeding Coordinator to provide breastfeeding promotion and support, including overseeing the Mother to Mother Breastfeeding Peer Counseling Program.
Act as a liaison between state agencies, local programs, and the healthcare community, fostering relationships with healthcare providers and community partners.
Supervise the delivery of nutrition education and counseling services, ensuring a focus on participant-centered care and individualized nutrition care plans.
Evaluate and monitor participant service hours, staffing schedules, and participant flow to ensure efficient service delivery.
Perform high-level administrative duties, including certifying high-risk prenatal and postpartum individuals, infants, and children, as well as providing referrals and nutrition education.
Assist in program evaluation and continuous improvement efforts by evaluating service delivery and recommending new strategies.
Program Nutritionist & Breastfeeding Coordinator
WIC Program (Women, Infants, and Children)
08.2012 - 12.2022
Program Nutritionist & Breastfeeding Coordinator WIC Program Fall River MA August 2012 – December 2022
Nutrition Services: Delivered nutrition services to WIC applicants and participants, including high-risk prenatal and postpartum individuals, infants, and children. Conducted anthropometric and hematological data collection, dietary assessments, nutritional risk evaluations, and prescribed food packages tailored to individual needs.
Counseling & Education: Provided nutrition and breastfeeding counseling, educating participants on best practices for infant and maternal health. Delivered personalized follow-up nutrition education and referred participants to additional health and social services as needed.
Program Development & Evaluation: Assisted in the development and evaluation of educational materials, group nutrition education sessions, and outreach activities. Played an integral role in creating and implementing nutrition policies to improve program delivery and participant outcomes.
Leadership & Training: Supported senior nutritionists in training paraprofessional WIC staff and conducted quality assurance activities to ensure program standards were maintained. Collaborated with the health care community to address participant needs and ensure comprehensive care.
Breastfeeding Support & Promotion: As Breastfeeding Coordinator, developed and managed breastfeeding promotion programs, including participant education classes, support groups, and prenatal breastfeeding counseling.
Peer Counselor Program: Oversaw the peer counselor program, providing training, support, and evaluation in collaboration with senior nutritionists and program directors.
Community & Professional Collaboration: Coordinated with local breastfeeding resources, healthcare professionals, and community organizations to enhance breastfeeding support. Contributed to annual events like World Breastfeeding Week and participated in the Breastfeeding Promotion Task Force.
Staff Training & Resource Development: Ensured staff were up-to-date on the latest breastfeeding research and best practices. Developed and maintained breastfeeding protocols and materials for participant education, promoting effective, culturally sensitive support across diverse communities.