Katherine Hendel

Katherine Hendel serves as an Assistant Professor in the Division of Epidemiology & Community Health at the University of Minnesota's School of Public Health. She is also a Member of the Healthy Weight Research Center, demonstrating her commitment to addressing obesity-related health issues through academic and research initiatives.

Education:

• PhD in Kinesiology with Obesity Studies Concentration from University of Houston (2020)
• MS in Public Health Nutrition and Accredited Dietetic Internship from Case Western Reserve University (2016)
• BS in Economics and BA in Latin American Studies from Miami University (2014)

Dr. Hendel's research focuses on bridging the gap between research and public health practice to address health disparities in obesity and nutrition-related diseases. Her work emphasizes utilizing school settings for pediatric obesity treatment and prevention, identifying predictors of obesity intervention response, investigating parental influence on children's weight-related behaviors, and addressing disproportionate challenges faced by historically marginalized populations in chronic disease prevention and treatment. Her expertise spans health disparities, adolescent health, pediatric obesity, parent feeding practices, school health initiatives, community-based interventions, physical activity, nutrition science, and food insecurity issues.

Scientific Awards:

• George A. Bray Doctoral Dissertation Award from The Obesity Society (2020)
• Department of Health and Human Performance Post-Candidacy Doctoral Student Award from University of Houston (2019)
• American Heart Association Early Career Committees 3-Minute Rapid Fire Oral Abstract Competition Winner at EPI Lifestyle Scientific Sessions (2019)

As a registered dietitian with both research and clinical training, Dr. Hendel brings a unique perspective to her academic work, combining practical nutrition expertise with epidemiological research methods. Her background in economics and Latin American studies informs her approach to understanding the socioeconomic and cultural dimensions of health disparities.

Dr. Hendel is actively engaged with the Healthy Weight Research Center, where she contributes to multidisciplinary efforts aimed at developing and implementing effective weight management strategies across diverse populations.