KRISTIN THAYER, MSN, RN, IBCLC

Kristin Thayer, MSN, RN, IBCLC, is committed to promoting equitable access to human milk and improving infant feeding outcomes. As the Lactation Support Program Coordinator at Stony Brook University Hospital in New York, Kristin leads a growing team of lactation consultants committed to evidence-based practice and inclusive care. Since joining the hospital in 2020, she has focused on building a comprehensive program that ensures “more milk for more babies for more time.”

Under Kristin’s leadership, the hospital has launched several key initiatives to improve access to and support for human milk. These include the development of a donor milk and human milk management program, the creation of educational tools for patients and staff—such as the monthly Lactation Station newsletter—and a range of quality improvement projects aimed at increasing breastfeeding rates and addressing inequities in lactation support. Her team’s work is grounded in clinical excellence, cultural humility, and a deep belief in breastfeeding as a public health imperative.

Kristin shares, “What I enjoy most about my work is helping others achieve their goals—both patients and staff. I love using research and evidence-based practice to drive change and optimize the use of human milk.” She adds, “Human milk is life-saving, and all mothers and all babies deserve access to it. Supporting parents to make informed decisions and providing high-quality, equitable lactation care is essential to public health.”

CHEER is proud to recognize Kristin as our CHAMPion of the Week for her outstanding leadership in lactation care and her dedication to health equity!