The main goal of our seed project is to work with teen leaders and local health professionals to develop and pilot interactive, school-based food literacy sessions that empower teens with the knowledge and skills to be engaged in their food choices and the impact on their health. Since we know that teens seek independence, novelty and are motivated by many factors rather than their future health, we aim to focus on experiential learning and building lasting food skills.

Amanda M Ziegler, PhD, MPH, BSN (Department of Family Medicine, University at Buffalo)

Jill Tirabassi, MD, MPH (Department of Family Medicine, University at Buffalo)

Diamonique Pettway (Health Sciences Charter School)

Clinical and Translational Science Institute (CTSI) - University at Buffalo - [1/6/2025- 12/31/25]

The goal of this project is to strengthen a partnership between the Health Sciences Charter School (HSC) and researchers from the University at Buffalo to improve food literacy among high school students and their families in Buffalo, NY. This initiative addresses shared health interests, including building life skills and the prevention of chronic diseases like Type 2 Diabetes, by equipping teens with practical food knowledge and skills to empower a wider range of dietary choices and ultimately lessen barriers to fruit and vegetable intake. Teen ambassadors have leadership roles in monthly planning and participate in interactive food literacy sessions during Wellness Wednesdays and Family Night events. These activities will focus on essential themes such as food skills, choices/decision making, cultural influences, budgeting and food systems, incorporating community experts to provide culturally relevant, skill-based education. This partnership aims to empower teens, foster lasting health-promoting behaviors and increase career exposure in health sciences fields.

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