Jacy Warrell has worked with groups dedicated to improving the health and well-being of children, families, and communities for more than 15 years. This work included promoting youth and wellness programs in school districts, businesses, and non-profit organizations across the nation including Tennessee, Kentucky, Florida, California, and New York.
Her introduction into Public Health was in 2006 while working for a private research foundation owned by Dr. Arthur Agatston, cardiologist and author of South Beach Diet. Jacy managed the programmatic interventions for a research study titled Healthier Options for Public Schoolchildren Study (HOPS). Results from this study were instrumental in advocating for the implementation of school wellness policies, better nutrition standards, and technical assistance for food service staff with the USDA at the federal level.
From 2012 – 2016 Jacy worked for the Alliance for a Healthier Generation promoting good nutrition and physical activity policies. This work included providing technical assistance to schools and afterschool programs on creating healthier learning environments. Currently Jacy is involved with a statewide organization that helps enroll children and families in TennCare and advocates for Tennessee’s uninsured population.
On joining the Tennessee Afterschool Network as a field manager consultant, Jacy says “Afterschool programs play a critical role in promoting better health for children. I’m excited to support afterschool providers in helping bridge some gaps critical for good health and learning.”
Jacy received a Master’s in Public Administration from Villanova University; her undergraduate degrees are in Political Science and Communication Studies from Western Kentucky University. She lives in Murfreesboro with her husband Chris and two Scottish Terriers Alonzo and Jimmy.