Students who wish to lose weight can enroll in a new program called “Horizons.”

The program was developed by NIU nutritionist Ellen Parham, who started “Horizons” in 1983, Parham said.

“The program evolves as we learn better ways to do things,” she said. The program uses behavioral approach, she said. “If you want to change behavior, you need to monitor behavior,” she said.

Each person makes his own committment for the next week, Parham said.

The program is not based on quick weight loss, Parham said. “We try to develop independence rather than dependence,” she said.

The program uses a textbook, which people can refer to after they leave the program, she said. “The text helps build motivation,” she said.

“There is not a lack of knowledge about weight problems,” Parham said. “Most people are knowledgeable about (them).”

The program is being expanded for the first time to the Geneva-St. Charles area and the Rockford area, said NIU graduate and registered dietician Lois Park.

No more than 20 will be in a group, Park said. “There’s an initial interview after an application is filled out. Most people continue from there,” Park said.

“I have worked with weight control groups before,” she said.

The program does an assessment of how much body fat one has first, said Rajne Sud, an NIU graduate and director of dietary services in Rochelle.

There is group support with emphasis on keeping the weight off, Sud said.

The cost of the 14-week program is $140, Sud said. “If people attend 12 out of 14 sessions, they can earn back $100,” Sud said.

NIU picks up some of the cost of the program, Sud said. “It’s like a scientific study so it benefits both NIU and the people in the program,” Sud said.

Students interested in the program can contact Parham or pick up an application at the DeKalb County Health Department.