Friday, April 17, 2026
Keynote
“Culinary Medicine: A Path to Health for Self, Family and Community”
The field of culinary medicine is a discipline that integrates evidence-based nutrition with the culinary arts. Attendees will explore how nutrition serves as the cornerstone of health for individuals, their families, and future generations. Dr. Asis will highlight a real-world case study: the successes and struggles of building healthy food programs in underserved communities.
The objective is to inspire the audience to consider the profound impact nutrition can have on their personal lives and to highlight the versatility of nutrition knowledge across various career paths. To wrap things up, you’ll get practical tips and tricks to turn healthy ingredients into delicious recipes.
Maria Asis, M.D.
Dr. Maria Asis earned her B.S. in Biology, magna cum laude, and M.D. from Tufts University, and completed her residency in obstetrics and gynecology at New York Hospital-Cornell Medical Center. She is a Fellow of the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology and a certified menopause specialist with the Menopause Society.
Passionate about the intersection of nutrition, lifestyle, and women’s health, she completed certification in culinary medicine in 2025. She integrates this knowledge into her OBGYN practice. She extends this knowledge by teaching healthy cooking to medical trainees, lecturing in community and professional settings, and volunteering in schools and community events.
She has completed a grant-funded cooking video series for New Haven students and families. She is currently heading a research project on the impact of a preconception nutrition and culinary program.
Recognized for her teaching, Dr. Asis has received the Lee Buxton Award (2017) and Stanley Lavietes Award (2022). Born in Córdoba, Argentina, and fluent in English and Spanish, she brings an international perspective to her practice and education.