Graduate Faculty Focus | Karen White '86, M.S.'93

"I have always said that the best thing I learned at Hood was how to look for information. The liberal arts skills have been a valuable addition to my science background."

Karen White '86, M.S.'93

Program

Nutrition Science (M.S.), Nutrition Science Track
Nutrition Science (M.S.), Dietetics Track

Department

Biology
Nursing

Alumni
Graduate School
Graduate Student

Alumni
Graduate School
Graduate Student
Nursing

09/18/2024

Professor Karen White ’86, M.S.’93 is a current faculty member in Hood College’s nutrition science master’s program. Professor White is also a double Blazer at Hood College, earning both her bachelor’s and her master’s at the College. Before returning to Hood, Professor White worked as a registered dietitian nutritionist and a research dietitian at Johns Hopkins University. We spoke with White about her experiences at Hood and what her experience is like returning to the College to teach.

Please provide a brief bio including your educational and career background.

I started my career as a licensed practical nurse, working 10 years in a nursing home and three years with the children of migrant workers. I earned my B.S. in home economics with a concentration in dietetics in 1986 and my M.S. in home economics with a concentration in nutrition education 1993 from Hood College.

I am a registered dietitian nutritionist, having worked 16 years in Home Health and 21 years as a research dietitian at Johns Hopkins School of Medicine.

When you were choosing colleges, what was your deciding factor for picking Hood College?

I was an older, returning student when I went to Hood. My two little boys were 1 and 3 and stayed with students in the dorm while I was in class.

I came to Hood because my children were born with cystic fibrosis, and I heard that nutrition could extend their lives. When we were at Johns Hopkins for a clinic visit with the boys, I met two Hood dietetics students, and that convinced me to try the program.

In what ways do you feel your time at Hood college helped you in your career path?

I have always said that the best thing I learned at Hood was how to look for information. The liberal arts skills have been a valuable addition to my science background.

Now that you have returned to Hood college, what are some factors that drew you back to teach?

My desire to see the dietetics program back at Hood. I firmly believe in coordinating the program to include the clinical training and ability to graduate ready to take the dietetics exam.

What are you most excited about after a long career with Johns Hopkins and now transitioning to a teaching role at Hood?

At this point in my life, I feel that I have been blessed with many experiences, and I want to pass that on to the students. At Hopkins, I was fortunate enough to work with world-renowned scientists, and I am glad to bring that education to students at my alma mater.

What are some things you enjoy doing during your free time?

My favorite hobby is taking water aerobics at my gym in Mt. Airy. I took training to teach water aerobics and hope to start that soon. My husband is a fire department chaplain. I enjoy going with him to national fire chaplain meetings and spending time with the other wives. We are hosting the conference in October in Annapolis.

Inspired by Professor White’s accomplishments in the field of nutrition? Ready to #GOFURTHER in your career? Learn more about Hood College’s graduate programs, such as nutrition, by clicking here.