Elizabeth Oquendo

Elizabeth graduated from Emory University in 2007 with a degree in sociology and Latin American studies.  On campus, Elizabeth was an active volunteer in many Atlanta charities including My House and Project Open Hand.  A native of Miami and fluent in Spanish, Elizabeth has worked in Peru on maternal and child health issues, including malnutrition and prenatal care.

Field placement: Logan Square Neighborhood Association

Chicago, Illinois

Elizabeth worked with the Logan Square Neighborhood Association to create a wellness council at a local elementary school bringing together parents, community members, and school staff to talk about student health and school wellness.  She also contributed to the planning and implementation of the first universal breakfast in the classroom in a Chicago public school and studied its impact on students’ health.

Policy placement: Food Research & Action Center

Washington, D.C.

Elizabeth researched and wrote a national report on federal and state policies and practices in school food service that improve quality and participation in the school lunch, breakfast and after-school snack programs. Elizabeth also developed a guide for after-school providers, school administrators, school food service directors, and other key stakeholders to support local efforts to improve children's access to nutritious food throughout the day.

Publications