Chesha Hodge, MPA RDN is a passionate Registered Dietitian and founder of The Balanced Diet LLC, established in 2018. With a mission to inspire healthier living, The Balanced Diet promotes nutritional education, self-discovery, and behavior modifi cation, empowering individuals to achieve balance across physical, emotional, and spiritual health.
In addition to her private practice, Chesha serves as the Director of the Coalition for Healthy Food in Newark Schools, a transformative initiative housed within the Greater Newark Conservancy. Under her leadership, the Coalition has expanded to include innovative community programs such as Foodie Fun Nights, Student-Led Nutrition Advisory Councils, and the Cafeteria Overhaul pilot, all aimed at fostering healthier food environments in schools.
Chesha's dedication to advancing public health extends to research, where she supported Long COVID patients through her work with Rutgers University's Robert Wood Johnson Medical School’s Department of Pulmonary Care. She also made signifi cant strides in food system recovery post-COVID during her tenure as the Sustainable Food Systems Program Manager for Newark’s Offi ce of Sustainability, where she oversaw the Nourishing Newark Community Grants Program, driving local food security and community empowerment efforts.
As a proud graduate of the Historically Black College and University (HBCU) Delaware State University, Chesha earned a Bachelor of Science in Food and Nutritional Sciences. While there, she was honored with the USDA 1890 National Scholars Program grant and the Commission on Dietetic Registration Foundation’s Diversity Scholarship in 2020. She also holds a Bachelor of Science in Public Health and a Master of Public Administration from Rutgers University.
Chesha’s commitment to advocacy and public policy is evident in her previous appointment to the Legislative and Public Policy Committee of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Preceding, she served on the Board of Directors for the Delaware Affi liate of the “Academy” as the Nutrition Services Payment Specialist. Her professional trajectory refl ects a deep commitment to equity, education, and leadership in nutrition and wellness.
In addition to her professional roles, Chesha serves as Co-Chair of the Physical and Mental Health Committee for the North Jersey Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated. In this role, she has collectively organized and hosted numerous community programs and events aligned with the sorority’s mission to promote public service and empower communities through health and wellness initiatives.
Beyond her professional achievements, Chesha is dedicated to community service. She previously served as a Nutrition Educator with Delaware State University’s Cooperative Extension SNAP-Ed branch and as the troop leader for Girl Scout Troop 51027 in Newark’s North Ward.
Chesha’s diverse experience and leadership continue to make a lasting impact on public health, food security, and community engagement.
