Sept. 10, 2021

This piece is part of a series introducing all new faculty members for the academic year 2021-22. Sarah Wood has worked with MU Extension as a nutrition and health specialist since 2017 and is part of a cohort of nutrition faculty who are joining the school of Health Professions. 

Sarah A. Wood 

Assistant Extension Professor, Health Sciences  

Why did you choose to work at Mizzou? 

I started working for MU Extension in February 2017 as a Nutrition and Health Education specialist and teaching classes. I strongly believe in the mission of Extension to improve the lives and health of all Missourians, with an emphasis on underserved populations. 

Why are nutrition and family nutrition programs important to you?  

Growing up, my family had little money or access to resources. I witnessed first-hand the toll that poverty, stress and a poor diet have on a person’s health and well-being. I am passionate about being a dietitian, because I can educate and help others develop the tools they need to make healthy choices. 

What are some common misconceptions that people might have about nutrition? 

Nutrition misinformation spreads through traditional media outlets and social media. Between “wellness influencers,” celebrity doctors, and the never-ending stream of diet books, there are always new misconceptions to be dispelled. MU Extension has faculty and staff serving every county in the state, working hard to bring research and evidence-based nutrition programs from campus to the public, making us a highly trusted resource in the communities. 

What are you most excited about in the upcoming semester regarding joining the School of Health Professions?  

 I’m looking forward to opportunities for collaboration with and learning from my new colleagues in Health Professions. 

What do you like to do outside of work?  

I really enjoy being active outdoors. Activities I take part in are hiking, biking, camping and running. I also love to travel, cook new recipes, listen to live music and paint.