CHPS adds new face to nutrition mission Published Sept. 17, 2009 By Kendahl Johnson 78th Air Base Wing Public Affairs ROBINS AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. -- In its continued effort to promote health and wellness among civilians on base, the Civilian Health Promotion Services recently added a new member to its team. Arielle "Dani" Lebovitz is a registered and licensed dietitian that joined the CHPS staff in June. Her education and experience add depth to an already talented team. "Dani's ability to effectively communicate health and nutrition to the civilian population on Robins is unparalleled," said Kelley Denney, CHPS director. "She has extensive training and experience that gives her a wealth of knowledge. She truly cares about the civilians on this base and enjoys helping them. CHPS is so happy to have such an expert dietitian on staff." Mrs. Lebovitz earned a bachelor's degree in food science and human nutrition from Colorado State University. She later studied at Johns Hopkins Bayview Medical Center to become a dietitian. Because her husband is an active duty pilot in the 116th Air Control Wing, she's had the opportunity to work several different jobs. So far, this has been her favorite. "I love Robins. This is the best job I've ever had," she said. "We have a great team; everyone works together to support each other. We also have a great community where everyone is so appreciative of the services we provide." Mrs. Lebovitz initially wanted to be a doctor, but when she found out she could affect so many lives in the areas of nutrition, health and wellness, that became her "passion and drive." She loves educating people, saying it's particularly rewarding here. "Everyone that comes to the classes is motivated to change; it's so rewarding to educate people who are trying to improve their lives," she said. "You have the opportunity to really make a difference." She said since she's been here, she's personally witnessed numerous success stories and has had several people tell her CHPS has saved their lives. "They tell us that without our health screenings they wouldn't have known they were at risk for heart disease," she said. "We help people, and I take pride in that." She also takes pride "charting a new way" with the classes she teaches, bringing fresh and up-to-date information and innovative teaching methods to the classroom. Because of the large civilian population at Robins, she does not get many opportunities to work with individuals on a one-on-one basis, but she said she compensates by packing in as much information as possible in her classes to help as many people as possible. Mrs. Lebovitz said what helps make her a successful educator is her passion for the subject. But it's also her desire to help people and see them make changes that will improve their quality of life. She said people think they have to make major changes overnight, but in reality making small changes regularly is just as effective in achieving health and wellness goals. "To me, diet is a four-letter word. It's not about following a diet. It's about becoming healthier though lifestyle changes," she said. "That's what I'm trying to promote." Mrs. Lebovitz is currently working towards a master's degree in health communication. She hopes the additional education will provide her greater efficacy in promoting health and wellness.