This letter was submitted to the Minden Press-Herald by Shakera Williams with the purpose of introducing herself to our community.
Greetings Webster and Claiborne Parish,
I am Shakera Williams, the new Family and Consumer Sciences Assistant Nutrition Agent for the LSU AgCenter in Webster and Claiborne Parishes. I’m a Louisiana native that loves to cook and travel in my spare time.
I am a graduate of Louisiana State University in Shreveport and Louisiana State University School of Allied Health Professions in Shreveport, Louisiana. I have a bachelor’s degree in Psychology and a dual master’s degree in Public Health. During my graduate school experience, I was introduced to the many fields of Extension work through the LSU AgCenter by volunteering with the community in Caddo Parish.
I have seen firsthand the significant impact that nutrition extension work can have on community members and I am passionate about continuing to positively impact people through education. I am excited and delighted to share my knowledge to help you better understand nutrition from a public health perspective.
Public health is all about preventing diseases, promoting health, and prolonging life. We can all work together to educate, empower, and improve our lives through nutritious foods. My favorite quote in life is “Never stop learning because life never stops teaching”.
I offer many nutrition programs through our SNAP-Ed program with our Let’s Eat for The Health of It curriculum for both youth and adult audiences. I can teach general nutrition topics of interest along with our set programs such including; Dining with Diabetes, Small Portions, and Small Changes, Healthy Habits.
If you have a nutrition topic of interest that is related to healthy eating, wellness, and cooking I will be glad to come and speak to your group. The LSU AgCenter curriculums are all based on individuals making healthy food choices consistent with the most recent dietary advice reflected in the Dietary Guidelines for Americans and USDA MyPlate.
Please feel free to contact me at the Webster Parish Extension Office anytime at (318) 371-1371 or send an email to [email protected] if you would like to consider setting up nutrition programs for your community.
I am passionate about education and I am willing to learn whatever is needed to better help and serve the local community. I look forward to getting to know you better and teaching nutrition in Webster and Claiborne Parishes.