Get to Know a WAMDA BoD Member: Bree Orchard, MS, RDN, LDN (soon-to-be CLES), Public Relations/ Community Outreach and Social Chair 1
Current place of employment and job title:
Senior Nutritionist at Community Action Pioneer Valley’s WIC Program (serving
Franklin, Hampshire, North Quabbin areas)
What inspired you to pursue a career in nutrition and dietetics?
I went to a volleyball camp at Auburn University during my freshman year of high
school, where I met their team dietitian. She explained what her role was and I
thought it would be amazing to be able to work with volleyball players as well as
talk about nutrition all in one job. (I loved volleyball and food, what could be
better?!) Later that same year, my grandma, whom I was extremely close to, was
diagnosed with ovarian cancer. The importance of nutrition became a critical
talking point. I did research on the various places I could potentially work as a
dietitian and realized that the possibilities were endless! Taking nutrition classes
in college solidified my dreams for becoming a dietitian and I knew I was in the
right place. WIC has always been near and dear to my heart as it was a program
my family utilized more than once and what I dedicated my master’s capstone
research to. I am thrilled to be working for such a great program and coming full
circle!
Why did you become a WAMDA member?
I love the fact that there is a group for dietitians within my area! It’s a great way
to network and get to know other people.
What goals do you have for your career?
There are so many different populations I want to serve as a dietitian. I have
always loved sports nutrition, but I really love working for WIC. I also am a huge
advocate for HAES and being an anti-diet dietitian and would love to get some
sort of certification in that regard. I also am about to be a Certified Lactation
Education Specialist (CLES), which has made me want to pursue education in
lactation even further and become an IBCLC some day. I love that I can do all
sorts of different things and work with so many people from various
backgrounds.
What are your favorite hobbies outside of work?
Camping, hiking, reading, baking, and spending time with my favorite people!
Interested in joining the WAMDA BoD? Please reach out to [email protected]