Dr. Bowen has been a certified family nurse practitioner since 2000. Her patient population has been predominantly African Americans with obesity-related chronic illnesses, such as hypertension, diabetes, arthritis, and heart disease. She has personally witnessed the struggles people with limited resources face as it relates to adopting healthier lifestyle behaviors. Because of her research interest and clinical nursing experience, she is cognizant that reducing obesity health disparities among African Americans will require a multifaceted approach.