Lifelong nutrition advocate ties her professional expertise to a legacy of healthier lives.
As a registered dietitian nutritionist and nationally recognized nutrition communications expert, Neva Cochran has spent decades helping people turn information into healthier choices for themselves.
“Nutrition education is most powerful when people can see it, taste it, touch it and experience it,” Neva said. “The goal is to show them how small changes can make their favorite meals healthier while still honoring their culture.”
Timothy Moore, senior director of development at Baylor Scott & White Dallas Foundation, introduced Neva to the Baylor Scott & White Health and Wellness Center at Juanita J. Craft Recreation Center. During a visit, she found that its hands-on approach to nutrition aligned closely with her expertise and values.
Turning nutrition guidance into everyday habits
The Health and Wellness Center brings primary care, disease prevention, nutrition education, fitness and community outreach together in South Dallas. Its cooking demonstrations are an important part of that model, helping participants turn health guidance into meals they can prepare at home.
Working alongside registered dietitians and nutrition professionals, community members learn practical techniques for making familiar foods healthier while honoring their cultures and traditions. They can see, taste and practice those changes — building skills that can support the prevention and management of chronic conditions.
Leading with expertise and heart
Neva funded cooking demonstrations for two years, then renewed her support for another two. She also joined the center’s Board of Trustees and volunteers with the team.
“Neva’s passion for food, nutrition and community is reflected in her work as a leader, mentor and advocate,” said Jane O. Jurugo, MS, RDN, LD, nutrition services and education and wellness manager at the Health & Wellness Center. “Her generosity and partnership have helped our nutrition team provide hands-on education and cooking demonstrations through programs including the Food Is Medicine Series, diabetes awareness events and National Nutrition Month activities.”
“Neva has built an extraordinary career dedicated to improving lives through nutrition, and she brings that same passion to our community,” added Lydia Best, MD, medical director of the Health and Wellness Center. “As a board member, she does more than support our programs—she shows up, participates and shares her time and expertise.”
That involvement allows Neva to see the programs — and the relationships they foster — up close.
“I love seeing participants come back, excited to learn and eager to be part of the programs,” Neva said. “Watching that enthusiasm and seeing the difference these programs make is incredibly rewarding.”
That enthusiasm is something her fellow board members have seen firsthand.
“Neva’s energy and engagement are contagious,” said Debbie Dennis, Health and Wellness Center board chair. “She is a living example of the Health & Wellness Center’s mission and a valued contributor to the Center’s board.”
“We call Neva a cheerful giver because her generosity comes straight from the heart.”
-Tim Moore, senior director of development at Baylor Scott & White Dallas Foundation
“We call Neva a cheerful giver because her generosity comes straight from the heart,” Tim said. “By supporting hands-on nutrition education, she helps individuals and families build healthier
habits that can last a lifetime.”
For Neva, philanthropy is an extension of her life’s work — and an opportunity to see her gifts creating change today.
“A Southern friend once told me, ‘When you’re givin’ while you’re livin’, you’re knowin’ where it’s
goin’,’” Neva said. “You know the lives you’re touching, and you get to be part of that journey.”
A legacy of healthier lives
Neva is also ensuring that her commitment to nutrition education continues well into the future.
Through a bequest to Baylor Scott & White Dallas Foundation, her estate will establish the Neva Cochran Endowment for Nutrition Education, benefiting nutrition programming at the Health & Wellness Center.
The gift reflects something Neva has believed throughout her life and career: Food is about far more than nourishment.
“Food feeds the soul, the body and the mind,” she said. “For many people, preparing food is their love language. It’s how they show they care. We all have favorite dishes our grandmother or mother made, or foods that remind us of holidays and celebrations. Food is love.”
Learn more
Support the Baylor Scott & White Health and Wellness Center at Juanita J. Craft Recreation Center
Learn about leaving Baylor Scott & White Dallas Foundation in your will.
