Spotlight on: Marie Brown, MAHN, PDt
Senior Manager Community Health Promotion
Canadian Diabetes Association
While completing her undergraduate community dietetic internship with the Canadian Diabetes Association, Marie had the opportunity to attend Camp Morton. During her time at camp she developed a passion for working with and supporting people affected by diabetes. Upon graduating from MSVU in 2002, Marie started working with the Canadian Diabetes Association in Halifax. Since that time, she has held various positions with the Association and is currently the Senior Manager of Community Health Promotion for Atlantic Canada. In addition to her role with the Canadian Diabetes Association, she has done private practice and has been involved in a variety of volunteer initiatives including the Nova Scotia Nutrition Council, Your Way to Wellness and various community events. Marie also completed her Master's Degree in Applied Human Nutrition in 2014. Marie is passionate about chronic disease prevention, management & support, as well as food literacy.
What you love most about your job?
I love that my job is that it is always evolving based on changes in the chronic disease landscape and the needs of people affected by diabetes. I have also been able to work in a variety of roles and scopes, so it keeps things interesting. I also love working with dietetic interns as part of my role. They bring a fresh perspective and new ideas to the team. It is a mutually rewarding partnership.
What is the best adventure you have been on?
One of my favourite recent adventures was mountain biking in Hawaii. I typically enjoy riding on the road or trails and I am not a highly skilled mountain biker, so it was a great physical and mental challenge. Our tour guide was amazing and I picked up a lot of mountain biking tips, and learned about Hawaiian culture while taking in some incredible scenery and landscapes.
What is the proudest moment in your career?
The proudest moment of my career was completing my Master's degree while working full time. I was also very honoured to receive the Governor General’s Academic Gold Medal. It was a very busy time both personally and professionally, so it was very challenging. However, I am so thankful to have completed this part of my educational journey. It has had a significant impact on my practice and my life.
How do you unwind when you are not working?
When I am not working, you can usually find me enjoying activities that involve being active in nature. Some of my favourites include: running, cycling, gardening and hiking.
What words of wisdom or inspiration can you share?
"Be the change that you wish to see in the world.” Gandhi
This quote has always resonated and inspired me for both my personal and professional life. For me, it represents the importance of kindness, balance, compassion and peace not just for others, but for oneself.