In October, Yale University dedicated the Rudd Center for Food Police and Obesity. The goal of the center, founded through a donation from the Rudd Foundation, is to improve nutrition by connecting research and public policy in a meaningful way.

Kelly Brownell, co-founder of the center and chair of Yale’s psychology department, says the center will use its resources to create partnerships that enhance efforts to prevent obesity, particularly in children. Among Brownell’s work in the area of childhood obesity is “Food Fight,” a book that outlines the vast epidemic of childhood obesity and explores solutions, including a summary of recommendations.

Leslie Rudd, the center’s benefactor and other co-founder, counts epicurean food store Dean & Deluca among his corporate acquisitions. His Rudd Foundation has supported several efforts to change food policy and the stigmas associated with obesity.

Click here for more information on the Rudd Center.