.png)
Graduate Student
University of Minnesota Department of Food Science and Nutrition
Melissa Jansma holds a B.S. in Foundations of Education and an M.Ed. where she focused on curriculum and design from the University of Minnesota. She is currently enrolled as a doctoral student in the Department of Food Science and Nutrition (FScN) at the University of Minnesota. Within FScN, Melissa has worked on identifying gaps in nutrition undergraduate education. This includes the development of experiential learning cohorts, summer internships, review and redesign of food and nutrition management, and a freshman seminar development. She has created a Professionals in Higher Education course component that brings in professionals from well-known companies to advise and mentor students on project development and transferable skills.
Melissa works closely with the Community Health Hub located in Midtown Global Market on culinary wellness. In cooperation with the Community Health Hub director, Melissa has expanded the Neighborhood Nutrition program to include a focus on the intersection of food, health, and culture. Currently, the project is working with chefs to replace refined grains with whole grains in culturally significant dishes and raise awareness of the health benefits and cultural significance of ancient whole grains.