Featured Post from University of Delaware

Experts share practical guidance for a healthier, happier holiday season

Nov 20, 2025

2 min

The holiday season is a time of tradition, connection and celebration – but it also brings its own set of challenges, from food safety concerns to emotional stress. University of Delaware experts are available to speak with reporters and provide practical, research-backed guidance to help audiences make the most of the season.

Avoid common food safety mistakes

Holiday meals are a centerpiece of celebration, but preparing them safely is essential. Diane Oliver, UD Health and Well-being Extension agent, has identified the top five mistakes people make when handling and preparing turkey – and how to avoid them. She can offer timely food safety tips to ensure families enjoy their meals without risk.

Protect your mental well-being

The holidays can stir up complex emotions as families come together. UD psychology professors Franssy Zablah and Zachary Meehan can provide expert insight into how to maintain mental wellness, manage stress, and set healthy boundaries during holiday gatherings.

Find genuine holiday joy

Beyond checklists and shopping, how do people actually experience lasting happiness during the holidays? Assistant professor Amit Kumar can share research-backed strategies on pursuing meaningful, authentic joy rather than fleeting holiday pressure.

Preserve your decorations for years to come

Family ornaments and decorations often carry sentimental value. Art conservation expert Debra Hess Norris can explain how to properly store and care for holiday decorations so they remain vibrant and intact year after year.

Connect with these experts

All of these University of Delaware experts are available for media interviews and commentary.

Reporters and editors interested in speaking with them can reach out to mediarelations@udel.edu for a quick response and support.

Connect with:

Amit Kumar

Assistant Professor of Marketing

Professor Kumar’s research focuses on the scientific study of happiness.

HappinessConsumer BehaviorSocial PsychologyBehavioral Decision MakingKindness

Find Experts

Jul 17, 2026

1 min

Food safety expert available to discuss emerging health risks

The University of Delaware’s Kalmia Kniel can discuss foodborne parasites and food safety risks, including the ongoing cyclosporiasis outbreak spreading across the United States. Kniel, a professor of microbial food safety, can explain how foodborne parasites spread, why outbreaks (particularly those involving the Cyclospora parasite) can be challenging to investigate and what consumers should know about reducing their risk of illness. She co-authored a study published in December 2025 that examined challenges researchers face in detecting, studying and controlling Cyclospora cayetanensis, including gaps in understanding the parasite and improving prevention strategies. Kniel can also discuss why fresh produce and water are often a focus during investigations and the steps consumers can take to improve food safety. Kniel’s expertise includes: • Foodborne parasites and illness outbreaks • Produce and microbial food safety • Food contamination and prevention • Food safety research Kniel discussed the biology of this specific pathogen in detail at a recent presentation on cyclospora. To arrange an interview with Kniel, visit her profile page and click the contact button. Interested journalists can else email MediaRelations@udel.edu.

Jul 16, 2026

1 min

Wildfire smoke: Climatologist available to explain air quality and impacts

Wildfire smoke has increasingly affected communities across the United States, including the latest episode in which smoke from Canadian wildfires has moved into the Midwest and Mid-Atlantic regions. The University of Delaware’s Kevin Brinson is available to explain the atmospheric conditions that allow wildfire smoke to travel long distances and affect regional air quality. Brinson, an assistant research professor and Delaware’s state climatologist, can speak to: • How wildfire smoke travels long distances through the atmosphere. • The role of weather patterns, winds and atmospheric conditions in transporting and dispersing smoke. • How wildfire smoke events are monitored and forecast. • How atmospheric and seasonal weather patterns influence smoke transport and regional air quality. To arrange an interview with Brinson, visit his profile and click the contact button. Interested reporters can also send an email to MediaRelations@udel.edu.

Jul 16, 2026

1 min

Registered Dietitian Discusses Seasonal Eating, Nutrition Benefits of Summer Vegetables and Healthy Food Preparation

University of Delaware registered dietitian and clinical nutrition instructor Sharon Collison is available to discuss seasonal eating, the nutritional benefits of vegetables and practical strategies for making healthy foods more flavorful and appealing. Collison can explain how seasonal produce – including tomatoes, eggplant, cucumbers, corn and other summer favorites – provides important nutrients such as fiber, vitamins, minerals and plant compounds that support overall health. She can also discuss simple preparation techniques, including grilling, roasting, herbs and spices, that can help people incorporate more vegetables into everyday meals. Collison's expertise includes: • The nutritional benefits of seasonal fruits and vegetables and how they contribute to overall health. • Evidence-based strategies for healthy eating and building sustainable nutrition habits. • Simple cooking techniques and meal ideas that make nutritious foods more appealing. To arrange an interview with Collison, visit her profile page and click on the contact button. Interested reporters can also send an email to MediaRelations@udel.edu.