Welcome Message from the Executive Committee of the NACAN

 

 

Feb. 14, 2025

 

 

Dear NACAN members and friends, 

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          Since its establishment in 2012, NACAN has grown and evolved over the past decade. As someone who joined the association during my doctoral studies, I have had the privilege of serving in various capacities, including as a general member, a member of the Communications Committee, the Awards Committee, and as Secretary. These experiences have reinforced my belief that NACAN is not just a platform for academic exchange but a vital community that unites Chinese nutrition researchers worldwide to advance scientific progress and global health. The association’s growth has been made possible by the dedication of our executive committee members and the unwavering support of all members, and we continue to provide valuable opportunities for participation and contribution. During my term, I aspire to work alongside all of you to achieve the following vision:

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1. Expand Membership and Build a Global Network for Chinese Nutrition Scholars NACAN was founded to provide a platform for academic exchange and collaboration among Chinese nutrition researchers in North America. Moving forward, we aim to broaden this platform to include Chinese nutrition scholars worldwide, fostering a global community dedicated to improving public health.       

2. Strengthen Research Platforms and Enhance Academic Influence Scientific research is at the core of our association. We will continue to support high-quality research among our members, promote impactful scholarly contributions, and elevate NACAN’s presence in the field of nutrition and health.                                

3. Establish an Official Academic Journal to Promote Knowledge Dissemination Launching an official NACAN journal will not only enhance the association’s academic reputation but also provide members with a high-quality platform to publish their research and share their findings with the global scientific community.                                                                                                                

4. Foster U.S.-China Nutrition Talent Development and International Training Programs We aim to establish training programs that facilitate cross-border talent exchange, providing young scholars and practitioners with valuable opportunities for learning and career advancement.                                                                          

5. Promote Public Health and Increase Societal Impact We will establish a dedicated Public Health Promotion Committee to disseminate evidence-based nutrition knowledge, improve public health literacy, and ensure that nutrition research serves the broader society.                                                                          

6. Strengthen Academic-Industry Collaboration and Accelerate Research Translation By fostering stronger connections between academia and industry, we seek to promote the practical application of scientific discoveries, driving innovation in the field of nutrition and health.                                                                          

7. Secure Sustainable Funding to Support Long-Term Growth A stable financial foundation is essential for NACAN’s continued success. We will actively seek funding opportunities and establish sustainable operational models to ensure the association’s long-term development. As NACAN continues to grow, each member of the executive committee should approach our work with an entrepreneurial mindset, integrating personal academic interests with the association’s mission. I am confident that, with our collective efforts, NACAN’s future will be even brighter.

 

Let us work together to create a healthier and more impactful future!

 

Lei Hao

North American Chinese Association for Nutrition (NACAN)​