Meet the THRIVE Team
Meet the THRIVE Team
Adeline “Addy” Assani-Uva, MS, RD, LDN, CDCES
Why THRIVE?
“The study allows for educating and empowering individuals to manage hypertension and access healthy produce. I am passionate about individuals embracing the “Food is Medicine” model as part of their healthcare interventions.”
Favorite Healthy Snack?
Plantains
Janice Dugbartey, MPH
Why THRIVE?
“I am passionate about eating healthy to avoid and replace medications.”
Favorite Healthy Snack?
Greek yogurt and granola
Irma Iribe, BS
Why THRIVE?
“Because I like to promote healthy eating to the community. I like the idea of having a community to be able to live its happiest, healthiest life. Anyone needs to take care of themselves with better nutrition, increased physical activity, and regular doctor visits to drastically decrease risk of chronic health conditions.”
Favorite Healthy Snack?
Watermelon, cucumbers & cherry tomatoes
Natania Kurien
Why THRIVE?
“I thought it would be really interesting to interact with participants and see the short and long term impacts the intervention can have. I also think that culturally sensitive nutritional information is so important and interesting!”
Favorite Healthy Snack?
Fruit!
D’Janee Kyeremeh
Why THRIVE?
“I joined THRIVE because it gave me the opportunity to reach out to
diverse communities that I otherwise wouldn’t have had the ability to interact
with.”
Favorite Healthy Snack?
Baby carrots with ketchup
Faith Elise Metlock, BSN, RN
Why THRIVE?
“I joined THRIVE because I understand the importance of healthy eating in reducing hypertension risk, yet I recognize the barriers that prevent many from accessing nutritious food. Through community engagement, our team hopes to help bridge this gap, making healthier choices more attainable for everyone.”
Favorite Healthy Snack?
Cucumber slices
Moji Olusola-Bello, MD
Why THRIVE?
“The mission of THRIVE – Food is Medicine aligns perfectly with my passion for preventing cardiovascular complications.”
Favorite Healthy Snack?
Almonds
Maricielo Saldarriaga, BS, MS
Why THRIVE?
“I joined THRIVE to help address high blood pressure in the community because I am passionate about contributing to public health and making a tangible impact on people’s lives..”
Favorite Healthy Snack?
Yogurt with blueberries
Tosin Tomiwa, MPA
Why THRIVE?
“I joined the THRIVE team as it allows me the opportunity to contribute positively to research focused on personalized care for marginalized populations, fostering a more equitable and healthier society.”
Favorite Healthy Snack?
Cherry/Watermelon
India E. Washington, BS, BA
Why THRIVE?
“Food is a critical yet often overlooked aspect of holistic health. By participating in THRIVE, I aim to support the community, highlighting how proper nutrition can prevent chronic diseases.”
Favorite Healthy Snack?
Acai bowl