Parents often have questions when they see toddlers using regular knives at the dinner table. “No, no, it’s okay,” Maribel Cedillo reassures them. “They know how to use them.” Maribel’s kitchen is bright and welcoming, a place where cooking is a family affair.
In many Mexican homes, food is central to daily life. Maribel’s mother, like many grandmothers, made sure everyone had enough to eat before resting herself. “She still checks on us until she feels we’ve eaten well,” Maribel shares.
This focus on food influenced Maribel’s life and career. Growing up, she often faced concerns about her weight, especially compared to her siblings. This early attention to nutrition shaped her passion for health and community well-being.
In Utah, nearly 20% of the population identifies as Hispanic or Latino. Sadly, this group faces diabetes rates about twice as high as non-Hispanic Whites. Standard diabetes prevention programs often miss the mark, reaching only 16% of Hispanic participants. Maribel believes this is unacceptable: “We need better solutions that actually connect with our community.”
Many common health tips don’t resonate with Hispanic families. For example, telling mothers to walk their dog after dinner often doesn’t fit into their busy lives. “For many, that’s when they’re heading out for their second job,” Maribel notes.
To tackle this, she’s developed Paso a Paso, a healthy cooking program. She collaborates with community kitchens, teaching cooking workshops that resonate with cultural tastes. Participants often express surprise that healthy food can be both nutritious and delicious. “Eating healthy is normal for me, but it’s not the case for everyone,” she says.
Maribel’s work goes beyond nutrition. It’s about building trust and community. “I feel I’m making a difference each time I’m there. We’re opening hearts and minds,” she says.
Her own children have always had access to kitchen tools. “It’s not just my kitchen; it’s our kitchen,” she states. She believes in empowering her kids to cook, which makes life easier and more fun.
As a senior research manager at the University of Utah, Maribel focuses on bridging research and practical health solutions. Her projects include writing grants, managing trials, and mentoring staff. One of her standout achievements is a digital resource hub, providing colleagues with tools for success. “I want you to succeed. You just need the right resources,” she emphasizes.
Thanks to her efforts, there’s been a noticeable increase in research publications and grant success. Her approach mirrors her kitchen philosophy: create a supportive environment that encourages exploration.
Maribel enjoys her work, often thinking about how to equip others for success. “I’m good at connecting the dots,” she says. With her doctor’s degree in healthcare management, she’s poised to make a significant impact. “I know I’ll make a difference.”
Her pilot program has a 100% retention rate, showing its effectiveness. Maribel aims to create sustainable health interventions tailored for those who need them most. “I have been writing about this for years. This is my moment!” she declares.
With her passion and expertise, Maribel Cedillo is not just shaping healthier communities; she’s empowering lives, proving that small changes in the kitchen can lead to big differences in health.
For further information on diabetes and prevention strategies, you might find this report from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention useful.
