Multiplying Your Impact: Conducting Research to Inform Policy

Conducting and interpreting research to inform laws, regulations, and policies are important and crucial activities that Academy members should consider. Participation in these activities is essential to advancing the profession and health of the country. While research and policymaking are two distinct activities, researchers have a unique opportunity to influence policymaking through their work. This session demonstrates examples of how food and nutrition research has been used to inform policy in areas such as the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), the Women Infants and Children program (WIC), Medicaid and more. Speakers will present actionable ways for food and nutrition professionals to become more engaged in conducting policy-relevant research and translating research into policy, both in their daily work and through collaboration with the Academy.

Planned with the Research Dietetic Practice Group & the Legislative and Public Policy Committee

CPE Level: Level 2 (intermediate knowledge/experience)
CPEU: 1.5

Performance Indicators

• 3.2.6 Communicates with policy makers to influence decisions that impact the advancement of the profession
• 6.4.2 Demonstrates serious inquiry, examination, and experimentation aimed at the discovery and interpretation of knowledge, or the revision of guidelines, theories, policies or laws.
• 12.1.1 Advocates for and promotes food and nutrition programs and resources to address issues of food insecurity, nutritional health and overall health and wellness.

Learning Objectives

• Describe the relationship between conducting food/nutrition research and policymaking
• List examples of where food/nutrition research has influenced laws, regulations, or policies
• Identify ways that members can directly engage in translating food/nutrition research into policy

Moderator

• Mary N. Lesser, PhD, RD

Speakers

• Leighton Ku, PhD, MPH
• Lorrene D. Ritchie, PhD, MS, RD
• Alison L. Steiber, PhD, RDN