What areas of research has Dr. London explored in the Central Valley?
The Center for Regional Change (CRC), based at the University of California, Davis, is a dynamic organization dedicated to advancing regional change and social justice in the Central Valley of California and beyond. The CRC is home to a diverse and dedicated team of researchers, advocates, and community partners who work collaboratively to address pressing social, economic, and environmental issues facing the region. At the heart of the CRC’s work are the key players who drive its mission and vision, including experts in human ecology, nutrition, and community development.
Meet the Key Players
Dr. Jonathan London
As the founding director of the Center for Regional Change, Dr. Jonathan London has been instrumental in shaping the organization’s research agenda and guiding its collaborative efforts with community partners. With a background in human ecology and a commitment to social justice, Dr. London’s work focuses on understanding and addressing the social and environmental factors that impact community well-being in the Central Valley.
Dr. London’s research has explored topics such as food insecurity, environmental justice, and community resilience, shedding light on the complex challenges facing marginalized communities in the region. His innovative approach to community-engaged research has helped to build bridges between academia and the community, fostering meaningful dialogue and collaboration.
Dr. London’s leadership has been essential in shaping the CRC’s approach to addressing regional disparities and promoting equitable and sustainable development in the Central Valley.
Dr. Clare Cannon
Dr. Clare Cannon is a prominent researcher and advocate in the field of public health and nutrition, with a focus on addressing food insecurity and promoting healthy eating habits in underserved communities. As a key player at the Center for Regional Change, Dr. Cannon has spearheaded initiatives aimed at increasing access to fresh, nutritious foods in the Central Valley, where food deserts and limited resources often hinder residents’ ability to maintain a healthy diet.
Dr. Cannon’s work has been instrumental in developing programs and policies that seek to address systemic barriers to food security and health equity. Her research has highlighted the importance of community-based interventions and collective action in creating sustainable solutions to the region’s nutritional challenges.
By collaborating with community organizations, policymakers, and other stakeholders, Dr. Cannon has played a pivotal role in advancing the CRC’s mission to improve the health and well-being of Central Valley residents.
Community Partners
In addition to the dedicated researchers leading the charge at the CRC, the organization’s work is sustained by its strong network of community partners, including grassroots organizations, advocacy groups, and local residents. These partners are essential in providing insight, expertise, and on-the-ground knowledge that informs the CRC’s research and advocacy efforts.
Through collaborative projects, workshops, and community forums, the CRC’s community partners actively contribute to the development and implementation of initiatives aimed at addressing pressing regional challenges. Their first-hand experience and deep understanding of local dynamics have been critical in shaping the CRC’s approach to promoting social justice and regional change.
Key Areas of Impact
The Center for Regional Change’s work is multifaceted, with a focus on several key areas that intersect human ecology, nutrition, and community development. Some of the core themes that the CRC addresses include:
Food Insecurity: The CRC’s research and advocacy efforts seek to address the root causes of food insecurity in the Central Valley, advocating for policies and programs that prioritize access to healthy, affordable food for all residents.
Environmental Justice: Understanding the disproportionate impact of environmental hazards on marginalized communities, the CRC explores strategies to promote environmental justice and create more sustainable and equitable living conditions.
Community Resilience: Through its collaborative projects, the CRC aims to build community resilience, empowering residents to address challenges related to poverty, health disparities, and social exclusion.
Equitable Development: The CRC actively works to promote inclusive and equitable development in the Central Valley, advocating for policies and initiatives that support the region’s diverse communities.
Practical Tips for Getting Involved
If you’re interested in supporting the Center for Regional Change’s mission and engaging with its work, there are several ways to get involved:
Stay Informed: Follow the CRC’s research and initiatives through its website and social media channels to stay informed about upcoming events, publications, and opportunities for engagement.
Attend Events: Participate in workshops, community forums, and collaborative projects organized by the CRC to learn more about pressing regional issues and contribute to meaningful solutions.
Volunteer: Consider volunteering with community organizations partnering with the CRC to support their efforts in addressing food insecurity, environmental justice, and community resilience.
Advocate: Stay engaged with local policymakers and advocate for policies that promote equity, sustainability, and social justice in the Central Valley.
By actively engaging with the Center for Regional Change and its partners, you can contribute to advancing positive change in the Central Valley and supporting the well-being of its residents.
In Conclusion
The Center for Regional Change is a driving force for social justice and regional change in the Central Valley, with a dedicated team of key players leading the charge. Through their collaborative efforts, the CRC addresses pressing issues related to human ecology, nutrition, and community development, with a focus on promoting social justice, equity, and sustainability in the region. By engaging with the CRC’s work and supporting its mission, individuals and organizations can play a meaningful role in advancing positive change in the Central Valley.
New Faculty Appointments at UC Davis
The University of California, Davis has recently made a number of significant faculty appointments. These appointments include the hiring of faculty members in top positions within various departments, a university center, and an institute.
Center for Regional Change Faculty Advisor
Professor Michael Rios has been appointed as the faculty advisor for the Center for Regional Change (CRC). The CRC is embarking on a new phase, with a renewed focus on driving meaningful change for both the campus and the communities it serves. In his new role, Rios will lead a year-long process to reevaluate the CRC’s mission, clarify its offerings to academic and community partners, and identify funding resources to enhance its operations. The goal is to create a strong mission that is supported by a community of faculty, setting the stage for the next chapter of the CRC.
Department of Human Ecology Chair
Professor Adrienne Nishina has been named as the new chair of the Department of Human Ecology at the UC Davis College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences. With her research focusing on adolescent peer relationships and the impact of friendships from different ethnic backgrounds on overall well-being, Nishina brings valuable expertise to her new role. She is also known for her studies on the factors influencing the effects of bullying on mental health, physical health, and school performance.
Department of Nutrition Chair
Professor Gerardo Mackenzie has been appointed as the chair of the Department of Nutrition at the UC Davis College of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences. With a background in cell biology, Mackenzie’s research focuses on the role of diet in cancer development, prevention, and treatment. His current work involves studying the impact of dietary interventions, such as the ketogenic diet, alongside chemotherapy as a novel treatment for pancreatic cancer.
MIND Institute Director
Professor Aubyn Stahmer has been appointed as the director of the UC Davis MIND Institute. An expert in autism intervention, Stahmer’s research program emphasizes increasing access to autism services for historically marginalized communities. As a clinical psychologist, she brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her new role, where she will continue her efforts to advance autism research and services.
These appointments mark an exciting time for UC Davis, as the university continues to strengthen its faculty and leadership across various departments and institutes. The institution is committed to driving positive change, both in academia and the communities it serves, through the expertise and vision of these new appointees.
