Auburn University Department of Nutritional Sciences

10/13/2026

🌟 Student Spotlight! 🌟

We’re proud to spotlight Nutrition-Dietetics junior Shea Fagan, who presented her research at the American Society for Nutrition Conference under the direction of Dr. Greene!

Shea’s research, “Changes in Mediterranean Diet Adherence and Knowledge in Southeastern US University Students: A Longitudinal Cross-Sectional Study from 2018 to 2024,” explores changes in Mediterranean diet adherence and knowledge among university students over time.

👏 Congratulations, Shea, on this exciting opportunity to share your research on a national stage!

10/12/2026

Only 4 days remain until the application deadline for Pre-Health Shadowing in Croatia! If you’re a pre-health major considering your summer plans, this is a great opportunity to gain clinical experience while seeing how healthcare works in another country.

Program dates: May 7–21, 2027 | Zagreb, Croatia
During this two-week study abroad program, you’ll have the opportunity to:
Gain 40 hours of hospital shadowing across multiple medical disciplines.
Explore a different healthcare system and see how care delivery, patient interactions, and health systems compare with those in the U.S.
Experience Croatian food, culture, and local food systems through group meals and two regional excursions.

The $6,000 program fee includes shadowing coordination, housing, in-country transportation, daily breakfast, six group meals, and two cultural immersion/regional excursions.

Important: Applications are due Thursday, October 15! If you’re interested, don’t wait until the last minute to explore the details and get started.

Learn more and apply through the Auburn Abroad program website. You can also find additional information in the attached flyer.

Questions? Contact me at [email protected] or Dr. Laura Coats at [email protected].

I hope you’ll consider joining us for this exciting opportunity!

War Eagle,

10/08/2026

Shoutout to Dr. Laura Coats and Kyle Herrod for their engaging presentation on the “Protein Craze” at the Women’s Philanthropy Board!

Dr. Coats, Assistant Professor, explored the science behind protein and the foods we eat, while Kyle, a graduate student in the Master of Science in Nutrition with Dietetic Internship, shared valuable insight into our protein needs.

We love seeing nutrition science brought to life and shared with our community! 🥗🔬

Auburn University
Auburn University College of Human Sciences
Women's Philanthropy Board - Auburn University - College of Human Sciences

10/06/2026

We're thrilled to introduce Mercedes Babin, MS, RD, as our new Lecturer & Director, CDM/CFPP Program!

Ms. Babin is thrilled to join the Department of Nutritional Sciences this semester. Originally a New Orleans native, she has called South Mississippi home for the last 14 years.

She earned her bachelor's degree in Nutrition and Dietetics and her master’s degree in Nutrition and Food Systems from The University of Southern Mississippi. After completing her dietetic internship, she worked as a travel clinical dietitian across healthcare systems in Texas, Tennessee, and Mississippi.

Ms. Babin brings valuable experience in food service and clinical dietetics to her role as Lecturer of Foodservice Management and Certified Dietary Manager Credentialing Program. She is honored to have the opportunity to guide and support students in their academic and professional growth.

10/05/2026

Now Enrolling: Auburn University’s ANFP-Accredited Dietary Manager Training Program (CDM, CFPP)!

The Auburn University Department of Nutritional Sciences is proud to launch its ANFP-accredited Dietary Manager Training Program (CDM, CFPP) on October 5, 2026. Designed for current and aspiring foodservice leaders, this fully online program provides the knowledge and skills needed to excel in healthcare, long-term care, schools, corrections, and other institutional foodservice settings. Take the next step toward professional credentialing and career advancement while learning from experts at Auburn University.

🔗 Check the link in our bio!

Auburn University
Auburn University College of Human Sciences

10/02/2026

Congratulations, Dr. Sara Gonzalez! 🎉

We’re thrilled to celebrate Dr. Sara Gonzalez as part of Auburn University’s 2026-27 Research Communications Fellows cohort! This prestigious program empowers 28 faculty researchers from across all 12 colleges to connect their exceptional work with broader audiences. 🌟

Through workshops and strategic guidance, Dr. Gonzalez is shaping the future of research visibility and impact. Your dedication inspires us all!



Auburn University
Auburn University College of Human Sciences

08/26/2026

The Department of Nutritional Sciences is pleased to welcome
Assistant Professors, Dr. Shirley Arbizu (middle) and Dr. Laura Coats (left).

Dr. Arbizu's research explores how dietary bioactive compounds interact with the gut microbiome and influence human health. Her work also examines how food processing affects nutrient composition, bioavailability, metabolism, and absorption, helping advance evidence-based and personalized nutrition strategies.

Originally from Peru, Dr. Arbizu earned her B.S. in Food Industrial Engineering from La Molina Agrarian University before becoming a Fulbright Scholar and completing her M.S. and Ph.D. at Texas A&M University.

With experience in both academia and the food industry, she brings valuable expertise in food product development, including cereals, hydration beverages, energy drinks, isotonic beverages, and ready-to-drink teas.



Dr. Laura Coats brings a strong background in nutrition, physiology, and maternal health research to Auburn University. A native of South Louisiana who grew up in Starkville, Mississippi, she earned her bachelor's degree in Secondary Biology Education and master's degree in Food Science, Nutrition, and Health Promotion from Mississippi State University. After completing a dietetic internship at the University of Southern Mississippi, she became a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN).

Dr. Coats earned her PhD in Physiology and Biophysics from the University of Mississippi Medical Center (UMMC), where her research focused on how the maternal and placental environment during pregnancy affects fetal development and long-term cardiovascular and metabolic health. She later served as Assistant Professor and Director of Research in UMMC's Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, expanding her research on maternal nutrition, cardiovascular health, and pregnancy outcomes.

Now an Assistant Professor in Auburn University's Department of Nutritional Sciences, Dr. Coats is excited to build collaborations, advance research initiatives, mentor students, and contribute to Auburn's academic community.

06/04/2026

06/04/2026

Kyle, a dietetic intern from Auburn University, put together a fantastic meal using items from our inventory, featuring bok choy, skirt steak, and basmati rice. The dish was a wonderful example of how simple ingredients can be transformed into a flavorful and nutritious meal. Shoppers and volunteers alike enjoyed the opportunity to sample his creation. Thank you, Kyle, for sharing your talent and inspiring others with your cooking!