Registered dietitian Rochelle Werner was initiated at the University of California, Davis, in May 2019. She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in nutritional science, dietetics from the University of California, Berkeley, in 2014 and is enrolled in the Institute for Global Nutrition at UC Davis.

As a doctoral student, Rochelle’s research interests are dietary assessment and the long-term health effects of nutrition-based interventions directed towards mothers, infants and children at the global level. After graduate studies, she plans to work internationally to improve the nutritional status of children living in communities impacted by health disparities.

Get to know Rochelle!

1. Why did you accept the invitation to join the Society?
   Persuasive communication and endorsement from Chancellor Gary May to all invited members at UC Davis helped me see that Phi Kappa Phi is a noteworthy and distinguished society.


2. Which Phi Kappa Phi benefit have you found most useful since joining?
   Reading and contributing to the advice within the members’ network (Link) has been both helpful and fun.


3. Where is your hometown?
   I am fortunate to consider Monterey, California, my hometown. Though Monterey Bay is often best known for its aquarium, I know it more for the regional and state parks like Point Lobos, Garland Ranch, and Jacks Peak; the coastal recreation trail; tide pools and beach bonfires; and concerts at the Sunset Center.


4. Who inspires you?
   The people I work with in the nutrition department at UC Davis inspire me every day. From distinguished faculty members to the professors who mentor me as a teaching assistant to the post-doctoral scholars who provide technical expertise, they all inspire and challenge me to keep growing.


5. What was the best vacation you’ve been on?
   My favorite vacation was a weekend safari in Liwonde National Park, Malawi, while I was conducting field research. My colleagues and I saw hippos, crocodiles, elephants, impala, waterbucks, and a variety of birds. I will never forget seeing an elephant for the first time in the wild.


6. What do you like to do in your spare time?
   I stay involved with my church, helping where needed and building friendships. I’d like to work more on developing proficiency in Mandarin.


7. What was the first concert you attended?
   My first concert was a music festival called Spirit West Coast at Laguna Seca Raceway in Salinas, California. As a third grader, my favorite part of the outdoor concerts was hitting the beach balls released into the crowd.


8. What would you most like to tell yourself at age 13?
   When you see broken systems, challenge yourself to find better alternatives and be part of the solution. Spend more time contributing in productive ways than critiquing others or wishing to escape from “dumb rules” or school cliques.


9. What is your hidden talent?
   I can make oboe reeds.


10. When are you the happiest?
    I love receiving snail mail from friends and family members. It makes my day that someone would take the time to handwrite a note. And I appreciate the way each person’s handwriting is unique.

To learn more about Rochelle and connect, visit her member profile within the Phi Kappa Phi online community here.

The ΦΚΦ Member Spotlight gives members the opportunity to share more about themselves and how they have benefited from membership in the Society. The spotlight is a great way for members to learn about each other and connect with others who have common interests and goals.

Would you like to be featured, or do you know someone you would like see in the spotlight? If so, email Jamie Chapman, membership director, at jchapman@phikappaphi.org. Be sure to include basic information for the nomination.