Azar Gaminian, MPH, CHES® is the Research Coordinator at Brighter Bites. In her role, she supports Brighter Bites’ research and evaluation efforts and oversees outcome data collection for all cities where Brighter Bites operates. As a native Houstonian, Azar attended the University of Houston and received a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology, with minors in Chemistry and French. She earned her Master’s Degree in Public Health, concentrating in Maternal and Child Health from the George Washington University Milken Institute School of Public Health.

Azar comes to Brighter Bites with over 12 years of experience in education, early childhood development research, and working with at-risk communities. She has always had a passion for science and education, beginning her career as a high school chemistry teacher before moving into early childhood development research at the Children’s Learning Institute at UT Houston Health Science Center. During her time in graduate school, she coordinated research efforts for a pilot study program exploring digital interventions for healthy eating habits and food access for post-partum mothers in Washington, D.C.

Outside of Brighter Bites, Azar’s love of travel has taken her to 15 countries and counting. She’s an avid foodie who likes to explore new cuisines and dining experiences, loves to dance, and practices yoga. She is delighted to be a part of the Brighter Bites team to promote healthy eating habits by empowering our communities with nutritious food and education.