At the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee’s Zilber College of Public Health, students are making an impact both inside and outside the classroom—and Ken Bland is a standout example.
Ken, a first-year graduate student in the college’s MPH in Nutrition and Dietetics program, is currently completing the rigorous combination of coursework and supervised practice required to become a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN). His dedication to both his studies and his peers has already made a meaningful difference within the program.
Bringing Nutrition Education to Life
One of Ken’s most notable contributions has been his role in launching Cooking for College: Beyond Ramen, a FitWell cooking course designed to help students build practical, budget-friendly culinary skills.
The idea for the course was developed by faculty member Lori Klos, with second-year MPH Nutrition and Dietetics students refining the curriculum and testing recipes during Summer 2025. Ken played a critical role in bringing that vision to life—helping operationalize the course and stepping in as its first instructor when it launched in Fall 2025.
During the pilot phase, Ken demonstrated a calm, positive, and solutions-oriented approach that helped ensure the course’s success. His leadership created a welcoming and engaging learning environment for undergraduate students, while also supporting the professional growth of his fellow graduate students.
A Win-Win for Students
Cooking for College: Beyond Ramen has quickly become a valuable addition to campus programming. The course not only equips college students with essential cooking skills, but also provides graduate students in the Nutrition and Dietetics program with hands-on teaching experience and paid professional development opportunities.
It’s a model that reflects the Zilber College’s commitment to experiential learning—preparing students to lead, educate, and make an impact in their communities.
Recognized by WAND
In recognition of his contributions, Ken will be honored as the Student of the Month by the Wisconsin Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (WAND) in May.
This distinction highlights not only his academic excellence, but also his leadership, initiative, and commitment to advancing nutrition education.
Ken’s recognition is well deserved—and just the beginning of what promises to be a meaningful career in public health nutrition.