Our very own Body Positive Coordinator, Nora Arkin, and Senior Body Positive Intern, Tricia O'Donnell traveled to San Diego for the 2015 NEDA Conference, where they expanded their knowledge of eating disorders treatment, support, and prevention. They even got to meet Jennifer Siebel Newsom, director, writer, and producer of the documentaries, "Miss Representation" and "The Mask You Live In".

"Being at NEDA was a really incredible learning experience. The group of people there were very passionate about eating disorder prevention, treatment, and outreach. You could feel the enthusiasm as people spoke about their outreach and research efforts. I felt very grateful to be able to hear from experts in the field about groundbreaking research concerning Binge Eating Disorder treatment, neuroscience research about rewards and punishment as related to Anorexia and Bulimia, and a novel treatment for adult Anorexia. NEDA was a wonderful conference experience to be able to meet people from all over the country who are committed and engaged in preventing and treating eating disorders. "

- Nora Arkin, Body Positive Coordinator

"I met so many inspiring activists and made some valuable connections with people that I am excited to work with in the future. I also gained a better insight into the world of eating disorder/body positive activism and education, which will undoubtedly be of great use to me in my work at the Women's Center! One of my favorite things was learning about the power of social media in eating disorder recovery and activism, and it has made me change my mind about what I want to do my thesis on, which is very exciting! Sharing this experience with my mom was powerful for me, too--I realized that she has become an activist in her own right and it was heartwarming to see her making a difference by offering advice and comfort to parents whose children are currently battling eating disorders. It is humbling to see my own story of hope and recovery being told through her to help others; it reminds me why I became an advocate for body positivity and eating disorders awareness and education. Overall, the conference really rejuvenated and increased my drive and passion for this work, and I've decided to make it my mission to attend every year...now, though, I have the dream of someday presenting or speaking there!"

- Tricia O'Donnell, Senior Body Positive Intern

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