Kathleen Merchant

Kathleen Merchant is Adjunct Assistant Professor in Health Promotion and Behavioral Science at San Diego State University's School of Public Health. Her research addresses nutritional challenges in vulnerable populations, particularly maternal-child health and obesity prevention.

Key research areas include:

• WIC program innovations for participant retention and health outcomes
• Nutritional interventions across women's life cycles
• Obesity prevention strategies in low-income communities

She formerly managed research for San Diego's WIC program, developing quality improvement tools and studying certification processes. Her publications examine physical activity promotion among pregnant Latinas, nutritional vulnerabilities, and streamlining public assistance programs.