She is a registered dietitian, epidemiologist, and behavioral scientist whose research focuses on using behavioral theory to favorably influence food choices, dietary quality, weight control, and eventually cardiovascular health. Maya first began working with Paula as a MS/DI student where she provided research assistance on the KidSTEPs program as part of a directed study. They continued collaborating during Maya’s subsequent doctoral study at New York University on a project involving the Framingham Heart Study and Paula served as Maya’s outside reader for her dissertation. Maya continues to guest lecture in Paula’s Nutritional Epidemiology class and recently, Paula has come to guest lecture in Maya’s Lifecycle Nutrition course at URI.