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Ricardo Kairios, MS, Assistant Professor and County Agent with Rutgers Cooperative Extension of Mercer County, recently represented both our county and state at the 2025 Society for Nutrition Education and Behavior (SNEB) International Conference in Indianapolis. This prestigious annual gathering draws global leaders in nutrition education, food systems, and public health to collaborate on advancing equity, sustainability, and community well-being.
During the conference, Ricardo presented two research posters highlighting local and statewide needs: “Food Insecurity Among LGBTQIA+ College Students: A Qualitative Needs Assessment for Inclusive Nutrition Interventions” & “Understanding Barriers to SNAP Enrollment Among Families Participating in Free and Reduced School Meals in New Jersey.” Ricardo also served as moderator for the Advisory Committee on Public Policy plenary session titled “From Knowledge to Action: Bridging Food Systems and Social Justice in Nutrition Education.” This powerful session featured guest speaker Dr. Garrett Broad, Associate Professor of Communication Studies at Rowan University, whose work centers on digital storytelling, behavioral science, and food systems advocacy. Dr. Broad provided educators and practitioners with actionable tools to engage stakeholders, elevate community voices, and use evidence-based research to drive systems change toward food justice.
Ricardo is the current Chair of the Division of Sustainable Food Systems for the 2024–2025 term. Through this leadership position, he helps promote food systems that are environmentally sound, socially just, and economically viable. Ricardo also serves on the Advisory Committee on Public Policy, which guides SNEB in shaping national policy priorities, cultivating strategic partnerships, and empowering members to become effective advocates. For those passionate about transforming food systems, advocating for health equity, or supporting communities through inclusive nutrition education, Ricardo recommends engaging with organizations like SNEB. Both the Division of Sustainable Food Systems and the Advisory Committee on Public Policy play a vital role in advancing Cooperative Extension’s mission to educate, engage, and empower communities across the country.
