My name is Ashley Treadwell, and I live in Hermiston, Umatilla County. I just finished my
second year at Eastern Oregon University, and this fall I’ll start the nursing program there in
partnership with Oregon Health & Science University. I’ve loved my time in college and can’t
wait to blend my nursing studies with helping my community.

Last summer, I interned with OSU Extension, and I enjoyed it so much that I came back
this year. Working with Extension has let me mix my interest in health with community outreach.
One of my favorite parts has been bringing Food Hero recipes into cooking classes at the local
high school. Food Hero is a program by Oregon State University Extension that shares easy,
healthy and affordable recipes in both English and Spanish.

In my cooking classes, I assist students in preparing Food Hero recipes. For example, in
our last class, we made whole‑wheat blueberry muffins. Then, I gave each student all the
ingredients to take home so they could make the muffins again with their families. It was great to
see the students excited to cook and confident to try the recipe at home.

I’ve also worked with elementary students, teaching the Growing Healthy Kids
curriculum during summer school at two Hermiston schools each week. My supervisor, a
coworker and I visit to lead hands-on nutrition lessons. We begin with a fun physical activity tied
to the day’s theme, then show a short video and finish with the kids making and tasting a simple
Food Hero recipe. This approach helps students learn through movement, visuals and flavor,
making healthy eating both accessible and fun for young learners.

Looking ahead, I want to bring Food Hero into more classrooms and community
programs. I’m also excited to start my nursing education this fall. My big goal is to combine
nursing with public health outreach, helping families eat healthier, feel better and learn how
cooking can improve their lives. Prevention is key to preventing future health issues and
allowing for an active and engaged life.