Beth Ames

I never thought I would be working in the Lansing area after graduating from MSU. However, after spending a few years out of the State I was ready to return home to friends and family and this job presented itself at a very opportune time. I was unhappy with my job in the Chicago area when a friend working as a dietitian in Michigan told me about this opportunity. I quickly applied, interviewed, and was offered the position all in a matter of weeks.

As the Obesity Program Nutrition Coordinator, I work with other State employees, community groups, local agencies and interested individuals on the development of a comprehensive plan for preventing obesity in Michigan citizens. I also develop and monitor contracts, and provide guidance, consultation, and training to local agencies in the design, development, and implementation of nutrition components of a comprehensive Obesity Prevention and Control effort. Specifically, I oversee the State’s Faith-Based Obesity Program, which includes nutrition and physical activity interventions in faith-based settings, as well as a new initiative to launch fruit and vegetable mini-markets within faith-based organizations throughout the state. I also work with other State staff to implement local nutrition efforts within disease-specific program areas and participate in the grant application and progress report process with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Finally, I serve as the State’s Breastfeeding Coordinator, working with breastfeeding partners across the state to help attain the State’s goal of increased initiation, duration, and exclusivity of breastfeeding among Michigan mothers.

Job Title:	Obesity Program Nutrition Coordinator
Company:	Michigan Department of Community Health
College:	Case Western Reserve University, MA, Public Health Nutrition, Cleveland, OH
High School:	Okemos High School, Okemos, MI
Lives In:	Okemos