Mission and Vision Statements

Our Story

Dr. Lina Begdache has spent many years investigating the relationship between diet and a range of physiological and psychological factors. Inspired by the significance of her work, two of her students, Casey McKenna and Gerard Dempsey, independently approached her with the hope of contributing to her research efforts. They were eventually paired to form a research team whose early work laid the groundwork for what would officially become BMINDS in 2020. 

Casey and Gerard initially explored the interplay between diet, exercise, and various neurobehavioral outcomes. Building upon their efforts, BMINDS has since expanded its scope, launching multiple studies that examine how diet influences stress, neurobehavioral processes, and broader health behaviors.

Mission Statement

Our mission is to advance public understanding of the vital connection between diet and mental well-being. Through continuous research, rigorous literature review, and evidence-based education, we empower individuals to make informed lifestyle choices that can positively influence their mental health.

Vision Statement

Our vision is to build a leading research-driven team dedicated to promoting mental well-being through nutrition. We strive to broaden scientific knowledge in this field, share our findings through publications and presentations, and provide accessible, research-based resources that inspire healthier dietary habits within the community. By fostering ongoing innovation and outreach, we aim to meaningfully contribute to the understanding of how diet influences stress, mental distress, and overall psychological health. 

Research & Outreach

Research Goals

Through our research efforts, we aim to:

• Deepen our understanding of the relationship between diet and mental well-being through comprehensive literature review.
  
  

• Use insights from previous studies to guide and refine future research directions.
  
  

• Share our findings with the public to promote evidence-based awareness and education.
  
  

Outreach Goals

Through outreach, we strive to:

• Develop and distribute knowledge that promote health and mental well-being through nutrition.
  
  

• Present clear, accessible information about dietary strategies that support improved mental health.
  
  

• Leverage social media to deliver clear, actionable guidance that promotes healthy lifestyle habits and supports positive behavior change. 

• Host scientific meetings, workshops  or seminars that provide opportunities for individuals to learn about nutrition and engage in open discussion.
  
  

• Provide evidence-based insights on the relationship between nutrition, stress, and mental well-being to the Binghamton community, reaching both campus members and a broader national or international audience