IHN and the Department of Pediatrics Bring Nutrition to Life at CUIMC’s “Curious Minds” Science Zone
The Institute of Human Nutrition (IHN) was proud to participate in Columbia University Irving Medical Center’s (CUIMC) second annual Curious Minds Science Zone, an event designed to bring science to life for local third- through sixth-grade students. Held on the Haven Plaza at CUIMC, the event invited children to explore science through hands-on learning stations hosted by medical faculty, students, and staff across the health sciences.
Nutrition in Focus
As part of the VP&S Curiosity Cube event, Department of Pediatrics faculty Dr. Ileana Vargas and Dr. Vidhu Thaker led an interactive nutrition table along with IHN students and alumni, showing participants how to build a balanced plate and make Dr. Vargas’ famous apple cookies (just apples, nut butter, and a few chocolate chips!).
The activity encouraged kids to think about how food choices relate to energy, health, and fun, while also highlighting nutrition as a key part of medicine and wellness.
The kids were curious, eager to learn, and had so much fun,” said Dr. Vargas. “The future is bright!
Inspiring the Next Generation
IHN’s participation in the Curious Minds event reflects the Institute’s ongoing commitment to community engagement and education through science. By connecting nutrition science with everyday experiences, IHN faculty and students help young learners see the exciting connections between what they eat and how their bodies work.
The event—hosted by the Vagelos College of Physicians and Surgeons Office of Student Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging in collaboration with the Office of Academic and Community Partnerships, as well as the Stem Cell Initiative—showcased CUIMC’s collective effort to inspire curiosity and introduce children to the many pathways within healthcare and biomedical science.
A Shared Mission
Through initiatives like the Curious Minds Science Zone and Curiosity Cube, IHN continues to advance its mission of promoting nutrition science as a foundation for lifelong health, both on campus and in the community.