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Our Mission

The Nourished Principles works at the intersection of nutrition programs and policy to help organizations shape stronger food systems.

 
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Stephanie Hodges, Registered Dietitian, Founder The Nourished Principles

Hi, I’m Stephanie, founder of The Nourished Principles.

I earned a Master of Science in Food Policy and Applied Nutrition and a Master of Public Health from Tufts University. I hold a Bachelor of Science in Human Nutrition, Foods and Exercise from Virginia Tech and I completed my Dietetic Internship at the Medical University of South Carolina. I am currently an active member of the American Society for Nutrition (ASN), the American Public Health Association (APHA) and the Virginia Public Health Association (VPHA), and the Institute of Food Technologists (IFT).

If you had asked my family what I’d grow up to be, “public health dietitian” probably wouldn’t have made the list. I was an infamously picky eater who avoided vegetables my entire childhood. Everything changed when I took my first nutrition course as part of my science major. The subject matter hooked me immediately, and the passion of my professors and classmates made it clear I’d found my place. That spark set me on the path to becoming a Registered Dietitian and building a career dedicated to improving public health through food and nutrition.

My interest in public policy grew from two early experiences: working at a community-based nonprofit that delivered school-based nutrition and physical activity programs, and completing an internship in Washington, DC where I saw firsthand how legislation shapes the programs and systems that influence people’s daily lives. Over the years, I’ve worked in nutrition policy at the local, state, and federal levels. I have expertise in federal nutrition assistance programs, including WIC, SNAP, and the child nutrition programs, as well as maternal and child health and nutrition. Throughout my career I have supported policy development, regulatory interpretation, evidence-based communications, grant writing and implementation and program implementation.

 

 

“Stephanie is a true nutrition and policy professional. I have had the pleasure of working with her in many different capacities and she always delivers. From insider information to expert advice, she does it all. I highly recommend Stephanie for any nutrition related work.”

- Cameron Jacobs, USA Rice Federation

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Our Focus Areas

Advancing Evidence-Based food and nutrition policy 

We believe strong, evidence-based policies are essential to systems-level change. We work with organizations to translate complex nutrition science into clear, actionable policy and program guidance. We also work with clients to advocate for effective policies, interpret and respond to regulations, and strengthen federal nutrition assistance programs to expand access to healthy, affordable foods.

 
 

Strategic nutrition communications

We provide strategic nutrition communications support that brings clarity, credibility, and cohesion to our client’s work. From messaging frameworks and talking points to content development and narrative strategy, we help organizations communicate with confidence.

 
 

Strengthening Programs through collaboration

Progress happens when stakeholders work together. Whether through grant writing or program development, we partner with a variety of clients to design, implement, and evaluate initiatives that improve nutrition, health, and food access.

 
 

Guiding strategic decisions in health and nutrition

We help organizations navigate complex issues by providing clear, evidence-based guidance that strengthens messaging, informs strategy, and supports effective action across the health, food, and nutrition space.

 

 Now that you see what we’re all about, reach out and let’s get to work!

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