Bridging Research, Policy, and Community Food Systems

As a food systems dietitian and researcher, Gabby brings an interdisciplinary approach to CHPHE, exploring how social, environmental, and political forces shape food and nutrition security in urban communities. Her research centers on evaluating federal nutrition assistance programs (like SNAP and WIC) to ensure human-centered delivery, as well as evaluating local initiatives designed to expand access to healthy, culturally preferred, and affordable food.

Translating Research into Action

Gabby brings experience in local food policy, having built ongoing research partnerships with the Baltimore Division of Food Policy and Planning and the DC Food Policy Team and Council to advance equitable, community-driven approaches to food access. Her pathway to food policy and public health began with a BS in Dietetics, Nutrition, and Food Sciences from the University of Vermont and evolved through clinical practice as a Registered Dietitian at Johns Hopkins Hospital, public health work with the Cambridge Public Health Department, and municipal policy consulting in Baltimore City. She subsequently completed her MSPH and Ph.D. at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health. Prior to joining Brown, Gabby served as an Assistant Professor and Director of the Undergraduate Program in Nutrition at The George Washington University’s Milken Institute School of Public Health.

Advancing CHPHE’s Core Mission

By uniting nutrition, urban planning, health policy, and social science, Gabby collaborates directly with federal and municipal officials, advocacy organizations, and community leaders. Her community-engaged methodology aligns with CHPHE's commitment to bridging science and policy to promote health equity through food justice. 

Please join us in giving a warm welcome to Gabby Headrick as she joins our community at Brown!