AI-Summary – News For Tomorrow
University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff senior, David Opiri, driven by childhood observations of malnutrition in Kenya and a passion for sports, chose to major in nutrition and food science. He appreciates the field’s blend of human interaction and diverse career paths. Opiri praises UAPB’s supportive environment and its focus on addressing real-world issues like food insecurity. He highlights the impact of Professor Suzzette Shaw Goldmon, who involved him in the Food Positive project, allowing him to present research at a national conference. Opiri, active in campus organizations and a scholarship recipient, expresses gratitude for the mentorship he received at UAPB.
News summary provided by Gemini AI.
David Opiri, a senior at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, said he chose to major in nutrition and food science because of his longtime interest in the subject, which he traces back to his home country of Kenya.
“Kenya is a beautiful country with many positives,” he said. “However, like in many nations, malnutrition is a big problem in some areas. Thankfully, I grew up with sisters and a mother who love to cook and a father who is active and a sports enthusiast. I became an athlete and realized how important nutrition is for optimum performance.”
Opiri said nutrition and food science is a versatile field with many engaging career opportunities.
Unlike many fields being taken over by artificial intelligence, nutrition and food science still require human insight and interaction, he said. Whether graduates prefer work in the lab or with people, there is a place for every personality.
For those interested in the career field, he recommends an education at the UAPB Department of Human Sciences for its supportive environment, where students receive constant guidance and are able to thrive.
“UAPB’s program in nutrition and food science prepares students to address real-world issues, such as food insecurity, chronic disease and sustainability,” he said. “It combines classroom learning with community outreach and research opportunities. Studying here not only builds knowledge but also builds purpose.”
Opiri credits Suzzette Shaw Goldmon, UAPB associate professor and coordinator of the university’s Hospitality and Tourism Management Program, with introducing him to a broader perspective for his educational and career paths. Because of his foundation in nutrition, in 2023, she invited him to serve as a student researcher on Food Positive, a National Science Foundation-funded project at UAPB that develops community-based nutrition, food and culinary education programs to improve food security and health outcomes.
Opiri had the opportunity to present on college students’ barriers to accessing food security resources at the American Association of Family and Consumer Sciences’ annual conference in Kansas City, Mo.
“When I think back on the last four years, I feel gratitude for the faculty at UAPB,” he said. “They have supported me through every step of my academic journey, offering guidance, encouragement and real mentorship. I honestly cannot thank them enough for the impact they have had on my academic and personal growth.”
During his time at UAPB, Opiri was an active member of UAPB Minorities in Agriculture, Natural Resources and Related Sciences and served as the senior class president. He was also a recipient of the 1890 Scholarship awarded by the UAPB School of Agriculture, Fisheries and Human Sciences.
Tomekia White, coordinator for the 1890 Scholarship Program, said Opiri participated in professional development initiatives and also served in a student mentoring program in the Agriculture, Fisheries and Human Sciences program.
