Dunn Inducted to Eat Smart, Move More Hall of Fame

Carolyn Dunn, a William Neal Reynolds Distinguished Professor and former department head for Agricultural and Human Science (AHS) was honored with induction into the Eat Smart, Move More Hall of Fame on November 16 at the McKimmon Center at North Carolina State University. Serving as the AHS department head from 2013 to 2021 and previously chairing Eat Smart, Move More North Carolina, Dunn shared this recognition with other accomplished individuals, including Kathryn Kolasa, Cathy Thomas, and Alice Ammerman.

Dunn was recognized for her valuable contribution to the success of Eat Smart, Move More North Carolina. Her visionary efforts have played a pivotal role in uniting communities across North Carolina, fostering the development of equitable policies, systems, and environmental structures that promote healthy eating and active living. With over three decades of expertise in nutrition education, Dunn has crafted educational materials widely utilized nationwide to encourage smarter eating and increased physical activity.

As one of the “Dynamic Dozen” instrumental in crafting the initial 125-page North Carolina Blueprint for Changing Policies and Environments in Support of Healthy Eating, Dunn has been a driving force behind the Eat Smart, Move More initiative. She actively contributes to the creation of updated plans, featuring user-friendly infographics centered around eight core behaviors and a systemic approach. Dunn is the author and developer of numerous programs and tools that address healthy eating and physical activity, notably the award-winning Color Me Healthy, a curriculum designed to instill smart eating and increased movement in young children.

Collaborating with colleagues, Dunn co-created Eat Smart, Move More, Weigh Less, an evidence-based, 15-week weight management initiative implemented both in-person and online across the country. Additionally, she has been involved in the delivery of Eat Smart, Move More, Prevent Diabetes utilizing distance technology to extend its reach across North Carolina and several other states. Dunn and her team presently manage a $5 million grant from Blue Cross and Blue Shield of North Carolina to provide diabetes prevention education throughout the state. Notably, Dunn is a Certified Culinary Medicine Specialist and enjoys cooking healthy meals for her loved ones and friends.  

Dunn’s forward-thinking vision also manifested in the establishment of the Dinah E. Gore Teaching and Research Kitchens. These kitchens serve as training grounds for extension agents, Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program educators, and extension master food volunteers, imparting essential cooking skills and emphasizing food safety. Ben Chapman, current AHS department head, underscores Dunn’s enduring impact, stating “Dunn’s professional contributions extend far beyond the influential programs, publications, and leadership she has contributed to in the fields of food, nutrition, and extension. Beyond these accomplishments, her lasting impact lies in the fervor she consistently brings to our department. Whether she’s guiding faculty, spearheading innovative initiatives, or championing the health and welfare of North Carolina families, her true legacy is defined by the enduring passion she infuses into every aspect of her work.”