Mount Union Students Teach Youngsters About Nutrition and Health

November 25, 2003

Cenell Munford-Clark, instructor in the department of human performance and sport management, and students from her Nutrition Science class held a Nutrition Education Fair at Northside Elementary School on Monday, November 24.

Seniors Julie Gage, John Clouner and Nicole Timan look on as students jump rope.

The fair, co-sponsored by the American Heart Association and Mount Union College, provided 70 fifth-graders with the opportunity to learn about the benefits of proper nutrition and exercising. Eight educational booths were set up in the school's cafeteria. At each booth, a team of students presented information to participants and encouraged them to take part in various activities.

Junior Dan Chrest and Seniors Jessica Welker, Nicole Clough and Keely Ledford give students carbohydrate samples.

Northside students also listened to a healthy eating presentation by registered dietician, Kathy Wise, from NutraWise in Canton. NutraWise offers positive, practical programs for people who want to improve their health, lose or even gain weight.

The idea for the fair came about through a discussion between Munford-Clark and one of her colleagues, Gerry Radcliffe, R.N., director of minority programs at the American Heart Association in Canton. "I wanted to do something that would benefit these children throughout their lives," she said.

Cenell Munford-Clark (right) presents certificate of appreciation to Gerry Radcliffe, R.N. (middle).

Munford-Clark presented Radcliffe and her associate Lovie Hailey, R.N., coordinator of minority programs at the American Heart Association, with a certificate of appreciation for helping with the fair.