Jaclyn Slonaker Health and Wellness Manager United Dairymen of Idaho - Idaho Dairy Council Meridian, Idaho
What education are you bringing with you to this position?
I received a Bachelor of Science in food science and nutrition from Central Washington University, as well as a Master of Science in human sciences from Texas A&M. I am a registered dietitian with the Commission on Dietetic Registration and licensed, as a dietitian, with the Idaho State Board of Medicine.
Please describe your agricultural background.
Although I was not born or raised on a farm, I have a passion for agriculture because of the wholesome foods our farms provide for families inside and outside of Idaho’s borders. Not to mention, I love dairy foods! Yogurt smoothies are a favorite of mine!
What territory will you cover?
Idaho Dairy Council works throughout the state of Idaho.
What are your new responsibilities?
I am one of three registered dietitians who make up our health and wellness team at United Dairymen of Idaho and Idaho Dairy Council. In means to thank our Idaho dairy farm families we are responsible for promoting and increasing the consumption of Idaho’s dairy products. We do this by building and maintaining partnerships with government officials, community thought leaders, key stakeholders, health professionals and educators across the state. One key program we offer is Fuel Up to Play 60, an in-school health and wellness program designed to promote nutrient-rich foods and 60 minutes of physical activity. Fuel Up to Play 60 is designed to engage and empower youth to take action for their own health by implementing long-term, positive changes for themselves and their schools. We also provide nutrition materials and curriculum, pre-school through high school, free of charge to all educators in Idaho. United Dairymen of Idaho and Idaho Dairy Council are proud to offer funding opportunities through our Dairy Does Good program.
What previous positions have you held?
I was previously a clinical dietitian for St. Luke’s Health Care System in Boise.
Who has made the biggest impact on your career?
My career path choice was ultimately chosen due to my passion for a healthy lifestyle, for myself, as well as those around me. Through involvement with other individuals, the current obesity epidemic has had the largest impact on my career, energizing me to help others and spread the knowledge of health and wellness I offer as a registered dietitian.
How will you be of most help to producers in your region or area of expertise?
My passion for nutrition and enthusiasm for the dairy industry will be advantageous for delivering credible health and nutrition information to Idahoans across the state.
Why did you choose this company?
It is truly a dream to work for Idaho’s dairy farm families at United Dairymen of Idaho and Idaho Dairy Council. To promote a product that provides 9 essential nutrients and is key to everyone’s daily diet is truly a privilege.
What goals would you like to accomplish while in this position?
While in this position, through material development, program strategy, community outreach and communicating science-based nutrition education, I hope to meet the needs of our customers and build awareness about Idaho’s dairy industry. PD
