Caree Cotwright

Dr. Caree Cotwright is an Associate Professor in the Department of Nutritional Sciences at the University of Georgia's College of Family and Consumer Sciences. Her work focuses on childhood obesity prevention in early care and education (ECE) settings, with an emphasis on policy implementation and culturally appropriate interventions.

• PhD in Nutrition (Community Nutrition), University of Georgia, 2008
• MS in Nutrition, University of Georgia, 2004
• Dietetic Internship, University of Georgia, 2004
• BS in Biology, Howard University, 1999

Her research centers on creating healthy ECE environments through wellness policy implementation, training for childcare providers, and reducing health disparities in low-income/minority populations. Key projects include:

• Georgia Child Care Wellness Study (RWJF-funded)
• Bee Smart, Eat Smart garden-based curriculum
• Healthy Child Care Georgia (USDA SNAP-Ed)
• Freggie’s Green Machine entertainment education program

Dr. Cotwright’s publications highlight strategies for SSB (sugar-sweetened beverage) reduction, policy compliance assessments, and combined PSE approaches with direct education.

• UGA Alumni 40 Under 40 (2012)
• FACS Pacesetter Award (2012)
• Chris Todd Outstanding Outreach Award (2018)
• Georgia Trend 40 Under 40 (2016)

She has served on national advisory boards including the National Farm to School Network and Healthy Kids, Healthy Future, and mentors students through programs like the UGA Center for Undergraduate Research Opportunities (CURO).