Selena Baker

Biography

A native Hoosier and Purdue alumna, I lived and worked in urban and in rural areas on both coasts and in Appalachia before returning to my alma mater. The professional experience I gained gives me a diverse foundation and wholistic perspective regarding disease states, progression of chronic disease, and interdisciplinary approaches to treatment. I realized my passion for outpatient counseling and sharpened my understanding of eating disorders, fitness/athletics, plant-based eating, and cardiopulmonary rehabilitation while working at Ohio University as a nutrition counselor from 2014 – 2019. I collaborated within and outside my college, leading campus-wide wellness initiatives and contributing to the profession through my affiliations with the former Sports, Cardiovascular and Wellness Nutrition Dietetic Practice Group and the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation. I contributed to students’ growth and success by mentoring undergraduate volunteers and precepting dietetic interns at Ohio University as well. Prior to staring my current position, I built my understanding of leadership, team dynamics, clinical and organizational metrics, and practice standards as a clinical nutrition manager with IU Health. Throughout this time I have fostered relationships with the Nutrition Science Department and the University by serving as the Secretary for the Purdue University Nutrition Science Alumni Network, teaching Nutrition 330: Diet Selection and Planning, welcoming CPD interns each year at Arnett Hospital, and by providing annual guest lectures and hands-on workshop support for Nutrition Science and interdepartmental education events. I’m delighted to be back at Purdue full-time, fostering cross-campus collaborations and cultivating educational opportunities in the classroom, providing access to experiential learning, and fostering well-being through nutrition counseling for our students.

Education

• MS, 2014, Purdue University, RDN, LD

Areas of Expertise

• Inpatient dietetics, outpatient dietetics, cardiopulmonary rehabilitation, eating disorder support, employee wellness, clinical nutrition management

Professional Affiliations

• IAND Council on Professional Issues-Elect; Purdue University Nutrition Science Alumni Network Secretary; Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Member