The University of Kentucky College of Medicine has selected two medical students, Elizabeth McCauley and Kiki Samsel, to support the expansion of nutrition education for physicians in training.

The initiative, led by Sara Police, PhD, associate professor of pharmacology and nutritional sciences, aims to integrate more comprehensive, evidence-based nutrition content into medical education to better equip future physicians with the tools to address nutrition-related aspects of patient care.

McCauley and Samsel will serve as project assistants over the next 12 to 18 months.  They will work with Dr. Police to develop, implement, and assess enhanced curricular materials focused on integrating nutrition recommendations with current best practices in disease prevention, treatment, and overall health.

“I’m excited to work with Elizabeth and Kiki, who bring energy and insight as future physicians,” said Dr. Police. “Their involvement underscores the growing recognition among medical students that nutrition is a vital part of clinical decision-making and patient outcomes.”

The two students will also have the opportunity to engage with faculty who are nationally recognized leaders in nutrition education and research, collaborate across departments and institutions, and contribute to efforts that elevate nutrition.

This project represents another important step in the college’s commitment to preparing graduates who can address the complex health challenges facing Kentucky and beyond.

 

Pictured below: Dr. Police with Samsel and McCauley, respectively.