Meet the Team

Kate Sauder, PhD, is Principal Investigator and an Associate Professor of Implementation Science and Pediatrics. She wants to help mothers eat healthy, increase activity, and manage their weight before becoming pregnant. She is curious about existing programs that support weight management, and how to increase awareness and utilization in the pre-conception period.

Clara Brola, MPH, CHES^®, is the project manager for this CTSI pilot study. She is responsible for coordinating project activities, stakeholder engagement, Human-Centered Design processes, and development of the field guide deliverable. Clara’s favorite part of the project is speaking directly with stakeholders throughout Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist and learning from their diverse experiences and perspectives.

Roger Vilardaga Viera, PhD, is a Co-Investigator and an associate professor in the Department of Implementation Science. He also holds an affiliate professor position in the Department of Human Centered Design and Engineering at the University of Washington. Dr. Vilardaga provides expertise for the Human-Centered Design activities in this research study.

Melissa Kozakiewicz, MD, is a Co-Investigator for this CTSI Pilot Study. She is a Maternal-Fetal-Medicine Specialist and Obstetrician/Gynecologist at Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist. Dr. Kozakiewicz provides clinical expertise to the research team and ensures the study approach is relevant to the priority population.

Ralph D’Agostino, Jr., PhD, is a Co-Investigator for this CTSI Pilot Study. Dr. D’Agostino is a Professor of Biostatistics and Data Science who has conducted observational and clinical trial research at Wake Forest University for 30 years. For this research study, Dr. D’Agostino provides biostatistical expertise that informs study design.

Evette Barnes is a Co-Investigator of this study and Registered Dietitian. She currently serves as Associate Director at Atrium Health Wake Forest Baptist Weight Management Center. With more than 20 years of experience in nutrition, Evette is also a board-certified specialist in Obesity and Weight Management. For this research study, Evette provides expert guidance on evidence-based health interventions.