Name: Pamela Bradford

Position: Extension Agent II – Hillsborough EFNEP Supervisor

Current city: Tampa

Hometown: Memphis, TN

Years at UF/IFAS: 12.5

Describe your role at UF/IFAS:
I manage the Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP) which is a USDA/NIFA funded program to provide basic nutrition education to limited-resource families in Hillsborough County.

How did your background and experiences shape your interest in your current field?
My background is in public health and I have a strong desire to make sure people have the tools they need when they are ready to make changes in their lives. With our program, we arm them with the knowledge and skills to change their food behaviors – eat more veggies, save money at the grocery store, keep food safe, control their food portions, and more.

Who do you admire?
I admire the unsung heroes who endured racial injustices particularly during the brutal days of slavery. I also admire the many courageous people who have made sacrifices in hopes of the successes and freedoms we enjoy now.

What does Black History Month mean to you?
Blacks (African-Americans) are descendants of Kings and Queens in Africa, yet our history in this country doesn’t always lend itself to that recognition. February is a month that has the potential to shine a light on the positive aspects of our history.

Would you like us to link to any of your work?
Sure, the goal of EFNEP is to provide basic nutrition education to limited-resource families – many of whom are Black and Hispanic and have the highest rates of chronic disease and limited access to healthy foods. Our website is efnep.ifas.ufl.edu. I work with an amazing team of nutrition educators who carry our message into the community and build strong, trust-based relationships with our participants.

What inspires you?
My faith and my family and friends– I am a Christ follower and this drives how I live my life. I am passionate about my role as a wife for almost 23 years, a mother to two sons aged 18 and 15, as well as a sister and friend to many.

What are your hobbies?
Reading, outdoor concerts, Tampa Bay Buccaneers fan!

0