Tracy Bowman, Instructor of Exercise Science and Nutrition and Dietetics at Seton Hill, has received the 2020 Outstanding Dietetics Educator in a Coordinated Program Award from the Pennsylvania Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. 

Tracy came to Seton Hill to serve as a health coach for a research project funded by a federal grant. “Her instructional talents were of such high quality that she was hired as an Instructor in our Dietetics Program following the conclusion of the grant,” said Seton Hill Provost Sr. Susan Yochum in her letter of recommendation for the award. “She incorporates timely issues and current examples of applied practice into her coursework … Students are inspired by her contagious enthusiasm in promoting healthy living and the science involved in the study of nutrition.” 

"A great professor does not only teach you what to do in the classroom but also teaches you what to do in life."

Dietetics major Abigail Frech is also a fan.

“In our Nutrition Education course we have to prepare and implement lesson plans to various audiences of different age groups,” she says. “Ms. Bowman shares her previous experiences with active duty Marines, elementary school students, and collegiate athletes.  She explains how she tailors her teaching methods to connect with the specific population and adapts the implementation to their learning styles.”

Abigail also recalls Tracy leading an impromptu yoga class when she noticed a high level of stress among her students. “Even though it was a short session, the break was refreshing and provided an outlet for us to become more mindful about our mental health,” Abigail says. “To me, a great professor does not only teach you what to do in the classroom but also teaches you what to do in life; this is what makes Ms. Bowman an outstanding educator and an incredible person. ”

Photo, above: Tracy (front, far left) with fellow faculty and students from the Nutrition and Dietetics Program in Washington, D.C. to support nutrition as good public policy. Tracy emphasizes in her classes that future nutrition professionals have the ability and responsibility to urge consumers and lawmakers to learn about the positive role nutrition plays in healthy lifestyles.