Alea Stevens, MAND Membership Director
Provide us with a brief description of your job: I currently work as a Public Health dietitian in the WIC program. I work with pregnant moms, infants and children up to 5 years old and help them receive nutrition education and food benefits, promoting better health outcomes in the community.
What do you love about what you do? I love that this is a proactive nutrition role. I get to help clients make healthy choices and informed nutrition decisions as a form of preventative healthcare. Also, being the listening ear and encourager for women, children and families who need their voices heard during challenging times is one of my favorite things.
What are the challenges? With WIC being a supplemental nutrition program, it can be challenging when a family is in need of more than what can be provided. This is where clear communication of expectations and helping people get connected to other resources in the community is so important.
How has your MAND membership benefited you? MAND has expanded my network tremendously! I have met many wonderfully intelligent dietitians that have helped me grow professionally and personally.
What do you think is the future of nutrition and dietetics? The future is bright with so much opportunity for dietitians! There is a copious amount of confusing information available to people regarding nutrition, and we as dietitians have the chance to set the facts straight in many different settings.
What are your favorite activities/hobbies? I love spending time with my husband and family, traveling, dancing and throwing pottery.
What is your favorite restaurant in Minnesota? I have so many it’s hard to choose just one! Sushi is one of my favorites, so I would say, currently Billy Sushi in Minneapolis.
Please share your Instagram handle (and any other social media handles that you would like us to share): alea.joy
About MAND
Minnesota Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (MAND) is an affiliate of the Academy of Nutrition & Dietetics. We are the largest professional organization of nutrition health professionals in Minnesota, dedicated to optimizing Minnesotans' health through food and nutrition.