In honor of Women’s History Month and International Women’s Day (March 8), we sat down with some of the incredible women who make up the Parkhurst Dining team. We thank these women for sharing their authentic selves with us, and feel so honored to have them on our team.

What does International Women’s Day/Women’s History Month mean to you? 

It means giving a voice to a population group that historically hasn’t always been heard. It gives me the chance to learn about the women who have come before me and changed history, and allows me to recognize their impact and carry their missions forward. It’s encouraging to see so many people celebrating what women can do!

Who are the women that have the most impact in your life? 

My mom and my grandmother, for sure. They are strong matriarchal women who aren’t afraid to work hard. They’ve shown me how to weather the ups and downs of life, and keep forging ahead through the storms.

What gives you the greatest amount of pride in your profession?

The nutrition and dietetics sphere is changing very rapidly and going through an incredible transformation as a whole, so I’m proud to be in the position to influence how our organization embraces and adapts to it. People are becoming more aware of how health and nutrition is so personal – there’s no one size fits all approach – and how a more modern, realistic, and inclusive approach can totally change the game. Food is meant to be enjoyed!

Where do you get inspiration from, whether personally or professionally?

For sure, my nieces and nephews – frankly, just kids in general. They are curious, don’t take life too seriously, and live in the moment. I think we could all benefit from more of that!

What advice would you give to someone new in your field?

Oh, that’s a great question. I’d tell them to speak up and use their voice to influence people and share knowledge. Think outside the box for creative ways to connect with people. Rest assured that if your opinions are different than what you see around you – it doesn’t make them wrong.

If you could only eat one…

SOUP! Specifically, lentil soup. It’s nourishing, satisfying, and comforting – all in one dish.

What do you do when you need a confidence boost?

If I need a pick-me-up, I go to my nieces – they are great cheerleaders. One time I asked my niece Claire her favorite thing about her mom and her answer was, “She has a sister named Alicia.” I’ll take it!

When do you feel most at home in your skin?

When I’m outdoors on a walk, hike, or getting to play with the nieces and nephews. The fresh air is great for the soul and definitely where I feel most at ease.

March is National Nutrition Month! How have you celebrated?

It’s been a really fun time to connect with friends and peers in the nutrition and dietetics field, many who I don’t necessarily talk to regularly. Since nutrition is so personal and changing so much, it’s led to some really fun and interesting discussions – and really inspired some new ideas!

It’s also been a great chance to share LOTS of nutrition trivia. People are really interested in the little tidbits of information, myth busters, and tips and tricks. I’m always excited to prove that caring about nutrition doesn’t have to equal a life of cardboard and bran. Oh – and I’m eating lots of Lentil Soup.