Celebrating the Retirement of Dr. Jeri Wanzor Nieves

We are honored to celebrate the retirement of Dr. Jeri Wanzor Nieves, Professor of Clinical Epidemiology and Nutrition at Columbia University’s Mailman School of Public Health and the Institute of Human Nutrition. With decades of exceptional contributions to research, teaching, and public health, Dr. Nieves leaves behind a lasting impact on the Columbia community and the field at large. 

In addition to her academic roles at Columbia, Dr. Nieves has served as a Senior Research Scientist at the Hospital for Special Surgery in New York, where she helped lead clinical research efforts. She has been a recipient of major research support from both the NIH and the U.S. Department of Defense. 

Dr. Nieves has co-authored more than 170 peer-reviewed articles, reviews, and book chapters focused on osteoporosis, bone health, nutrition, and epidemiology. Her work has addressed a wide range of topics, including peak bone mass, stress fractures, vitamin D, anabolic and antiresorptive treatments, DXA quality control, and fracture healing. Her research has also explored the broader field of nutritional epidemiology, particularly the role of nutrition in chronic disease prevention and management. 

An esteemed educator and mentor, Dr. Nieves is known for her rigorous scientific approach, dedication to her students, and passion for advancing knowledge in public health and clinical nutrition. As one student, Sam, shared, “Professor Nieves brought the real world into the classroom, making complex ideas easier to understand and keeping us genuinely engaged. Her experience made learning feel relevant and real.” 

Beyond her scholarship and teaching, Dr. Nieves has inspired students through her example of compassionate leadership. Reflecting on her time as a mentee, Autumn shared, “Dr. Nieves largely shaped the way I think about science and what it means to lead with both intellect and compassion. Her kindness, care, and professionalism came through in every interaction. I’m deeply grateful for the role she’s played in my journey, and while she may be stepping back from teaching, her impact at the IHN continues to resonate.” 

She is a co-editor of the textbook, Nutrition and Bone Health, and she is currently working on the third edition.  She has also served as an editor for Osteoporosis International, further shaping the field through her editorial leadership.

As Dr. Nieves transitions into retirement from teaching, we celebrate her many achievements and express our deepest gratitude for her service to Columbia and the broader scientific community.