Danielle Kemp

Details

Dining Services Dietitian, University of California
Santa Barbara, CA
Age: 26
Education: B.S. in applied nutrition from California Polytechnic State University
Years at organization: 2

Why Selected?

According to Bonnie Crouse, assistant director of residential dining, Danielle has made an impact on dining services by:

•Implementing a new software program that provides students detailed nutritional analysis of all dining commons menus and recipes

•Exceeding all expectations for special events planning, including innovative activities and educational information for Sustainability Week, Sustainable Fish Day and Nutrition Week

•Restructuring dining services’ comprehensive Environmental Student Internship program and mentoring students who’ve completed research and projects for dining staff

Get to know

Q. What has been your proudest accomplishment?

The successful implementation of an online nutrition software program, which allows customers to view nutritional information, perform calculations, and filter by preference, location or allergen from any technology device. Above all this allows our customers to make better food choices that positively affect their health and lives.
 

Q. What would you say you excel at over more seasoned colleagues?

My enthusiasm and drive to help make change. In part due to my age, I am able to provide a different perspective and am often an advocate for changing something for the better. I am also eager to become involved in different projects and programs that will make a difference in the lives around me.
 

Q. What's the best career advice you've been given?

Communication is the backbone of any relationship, workplace or personal, and if your intentions are sincere and your drive is not just self-serving, it’s best to talk to anyone you encounter in life in this way.
 

Q. What's been the biggest challenge you've had to overcome?

Understanding the different aspects necessary for change. Change can be difficult and complex, but being an advocate for change that will better the lives of our students, staff and the community is something that makes the bumps and exertion worth it in the end.
 

Q. What would you like to accomplish in your career in the next two years?

I want to continue to educate and influence our student residents who eat in our dining commons. I want to have a positive effect on their dietary choices and allow them to become knowledgeable about the foods that they are consuming. Learning and teaching is a part of what we do here at the university and educating our students about healthy eating habits is just another great area that we focus on. We have a great learning opportunity that allows us to influence our students before they are independent.  

Q. What can you look back at now and laugh at?

How nervous I was about doing my first presentation in front of a lecture hall full of numerous students. Now, this is very common for me to do so I don’t get as nervous.