YSU Dietetics students hold bariatric cooking class, partnering with Mercy Health

YSU students, Brianna Anderson and Madelyn Welsh, hosted a special cooking class for 10 pre- and post-op bariatric patients from Mercy Health, organized by YSU Professor, Jeanine Mincher.

This annual event is a collaborative effort aimed at engaging the community and providing valuable hands-on learning for Dietetics students.

Working closely with Mercy Health’s Registered Dietitian, Kim Triveri, the students developed bariatric-friendly recipes that were approved by Triveri. The class allowed participants to watch the demonstrations, join in on food prep and taste the delicious dishes, with the added bonus of taking home recipes to try for themselves.

The cooking class has been a longstanding tradition, upheld by Mincher, involving Dietetics students from all programs over the years. It provides an opportunity for students to contribute to the community through projects, internships, extra credit and volunteer experiences. For over six years, this event has been held at least once annually, sometimes offering multiple classes within a year. It’s a meaningful way for students to connect with patients and contribute to their wellness journey while gaining valuable experience.