Lucia Canul

UC San Diego / SDSU

Registered Dietitian, PhD Candidate, Global Health

I am very grateful to accept the 2026 Emerging Leaders in Dairy Nutrition Science Scholarship to attend the 2026 NHMA Annual Conference. This scholarship allows me to expand both my professional development and my long-term goal of advancing culturally responsive nutrition science within Latino communities. As a Registered Dietitian and researcher focused on Latino and Indigenous food systems, I am working at the intersection of clinical practice, community-engaged research and nutrition policy. This opportunity will support my engagement in interdisciplinary space to understand nutrition and specifically dairy science, by integrating rigorous nutrition science with cultural humility and food systems awareness to advance equitable health outcomes. 

Adriana Pinedo-Colon

Rutgers University–New Brunswick

MS/DI Candidate, Nutritional Sciences – Dietetics Option

I am deeply honored to receive the 2026 Emerging Leaders in Dairy Nutrition Science Scholarship, which supports my commitment to advancing health equity through nutrition. I am most looking forward to listening to the perspectives of health care professionals at the NHMA Annual Conference and learning innovative strategies to improve health outcomes in Hispanic communities. 

Katrina Ursino

Tufts University

MSNP Candidate, Nutrition Science and Food Policy

I feel extremely honored to have received this award and grateful for the opportunity to engage deeply in my field through my academic journey. As a Latina, I am inspired to give back to my community by addressing existing barriers and advancing health equity. I look forward to connecting with others at the NHMA Annual Conference, learning from their experiences and contributing to meaningful conversations in nutrition science.