Group I Alum, Barbara George Takes on the Challenge of Leading the Country to Better Health

Leadership Wisconsin alumni not only shape their communities but impact the nation, and in the case of Barbara George, affecting people right in their very own kitchen.

In late April, I was contacted by the USDA to see if Nasco could provide a 3-dimensional display to help people understand the MyPlate concept before the release which would be early in June. ‘MyPlate’ is the new food icon introduced this year by the federal government in an attempt to help consumers make better lifestyle and dietary choices. We worked very quickly with a brainstorming activity with some of our most creative people. Within a week we sent the three best ideas to the USDA. Surprisingly the USDA was ready for the release on June 2 and so were we. I went to the USDA on June 1 for the “walk through” with the secret service and USDA staff in the auditorium at the USDA. Since Michele Obama, as a spokesperson for the White House Let’s Move campaign was going to be presenting at the MyPlate news conference there were special requirements.

It was very exciting to be able to network with some of the most important nutrition leaders in the country, from the CEO of HyVee to the CEO of Weight Watchers and the American Dietetic Association.  MyPlate was unveiled to the world via presentations of Secretary Vilsack, Surgeon General, and First Lady, Michele Obama. Afterwards we were able to talk with all three of them. After that I was escorted to the television studio were about 40 members of the press were allowed to ask questions of the speakers and photograph the Nasco display.

Nasco continues to be one of the Strategic Partners with the USDA.  We continue to assist the USDA with getting out to the masses to motivate consumers to make wise eating choices and become aware of appropriate portion sizes as well as getting plenty of exercise and water.

The current message is, “Make half your plate FRUITS and VEGETABLES.” Watch the Nasco Nutrition website and our Facebook page for updates.

What are your volunteer activities?

I serve on the board for our local Community Foundation and just went off the Wisconsin Family and Consumer Science Council.  I am ready for the next volunteer opportunity. Work is a major focus for me at the present time.  It seems that someone started a rumor that I could speak on Family and Consumer Sciences or Nutrition, which is a newer challenge for me. I am headed to Vermont soon to address the Home Baking Association.

How do you define leadership? 

Taking the initiative to bring a group to a consensus usually to take some type of action.

What’s the best leadership advice you have gotten/given?

To listen more effectively.

How has Leadership Wisconsin impacted your life?

It really broadened my horizons and made me aware of so much that I didn’t know existed.  It also enlarged my network of colleagues/mentors and gave me such a great group to call on for advice and to lean on when I needed it.

How did your experience with Leadership Wisconsin benefit your organization or business?

Leadership skills are as important in the workplace as in the community. Bringing people to a consensus quickly is just as important on the job as it is in the community or family.

What did you like most about the program?

The other participants. The seminars that were held outside of Wisconsin were the most enlightening for me personally. I had limited experience outside the state at that time.

What was your most valuable experience from Leadership Wisconsin? 

It is too hard to narrow it to one.

Your greatest achievement so far?

Raising four happy/successful children. Developing new products at Nasco and managing the two catalog areas (Family and Consumer Sciences and Nutrition) that I am responsible for is very satisfying. My greatest career achievement has been the ongoing relationship with the USDA and Nasco’s new MyPlate products that seem to be valuable to nutrition educators around the world.

Any advice for someone who is considering applying to the program?

Just DO IT. You will not regret it. I would be happy to answer questions from anyone considering applying.

WATCH our Group I alum talk about nutrition for DiabetesHealthTV