A-Day of Giving Student Spotlight: MJ Wayment – Researching Safer Food and Stronger Advocacy 

For MJ Wayment, studying dietetics at Utah State University is about building a safer, healthier future. Through their undergraduate research with food safety specialist Jose Brando Delgado, MJ is finding practical ways to improve food safety while also working toward greater awareness around mental health and nutrition. 

“My research tests how vinegar, salt, and citric acid can reduce bacteria on foods before they’re freeze-dried,” MJ said. “Freeze drying doesn’t kill bacteria, so this research helps make food storage safer for everyone at home.” 

Scholarship support has allowed MJ to focus on research that matters most to them.

“Scholarships help me spend more time doing hands-on research in the lab and less time worrying about tuition,” they said. “Support during A-Day of Giving helps students like me make a real difference.” 

Beyond the lab, MJ’s studies in Psychology and Mental Health Advocacy and Awareness reflect their passion for addressing eating disorders — complex illnesses shaped by culture and environment.

 “Eating disorders are heavily influenced by diet culture and social ideas about food and body image,” MJ said. “Considering their high mortality rate, simply treating them isn’t enough. I want to help address the public health factors that lead to them in the first place.” 

MJ is also focused on supporting high-risk populations through stronger advocacy and policy work. Their goal is to apply for USU’s Master of Public Health program (MPH) after completing an undergraduate degree in dietetics.

MJ’s commitment to both research and community health reflects the heart of the Quinney College of Agriculture and Natural Resources — using science, compassion, and education to make a difference. 

During A-Day of Giving, your gift helps undergraduate researchers like MJ continue learning, discovering, and creating solutions that strengthen Utah communities and beyond.