Alyssa is a registered and licensed dietitian at UAMS, serving as an instructor and senior brand and project manager for the Culinary Medicine program. She combines her background in mass media communications with her expertise in nutrition to promote healthy eating and lifestyle habits, making evidence-based nutrition education accessible across campus and in the community. She earned her bachelor’s degree in mass media communications from the College of Charleston before completing a post-baccalaureate and master’s degree in nutrition at the University of Central Arkansas.
Currently enrolled in the culinary arts program at UA-Pulaski Technical College, Alyssa is eager to integrate advanced culinary skills into culinary medicine, bridging the gap between nutrition science and hands-on cooking. She was selected to join the UA-PTC Student Culinary Team and earned a bronze medal in the American Culinary Federation’s regional qualifying competition in March 2025. In April 2025, Alyssa and her fellow student partner, under the guidance of their chef mentor, competed in the Diamond Chef Arkansas competition and placed first overall. These opportunities highlight Alyssa’s dedication to advancing her culinary expertise, which she integrates into her work in culinary medicine through translating culinary concepts into practical nutritious meal solutions for patients, healthcare professionals, and the community.