As Managing Director of Hunger Solutions Institute in the College of Human Sciences at Auburn University, Powers has elevated HSI as an academic center providing steadfast leadership in teaching, research, and service in food and nutrition security. Powers teaches and mentors numerous undergraduate and graduate students in hunger-related coursework and research activities. HSI engages multiple faculty from universities nationwide in innovative research related to food and nutrition security. HSI also convenes several networks, such as Universities Fighting World Hunger, Presidents United to Solve Hunger, and End Child Hunger in Alabama, to foster collaboration and multiply best practices. HSI currently has $9 million in active grants and gifts and serves as a national leader in implementing strong programming and conducting innovative research in the areas of nutrition incentives for SNAP households and hunger in college students. Powers has moderated panels for the White House and testified before Congressional committees to highlight the role of higher education institutions, particularly land-grant institutions, in food and nutrition security for vulnerable populations.

Prior to joining HSI, Powers served as an associate professor of Health Sciences at Furman University where she co-founded Live Well Greenville, a coalition of organizations partnering to ensure access to healthy eating and active living opportunities for every Greenville County, South Carolina resident.

Prior to joining HSI, Powers served as an associate professor of Health Sciences at Furman University where she co-founded Live Well Greenville, a coalition of organizations partnering to ensure access to healthy eating and active living opportunities for every Greenville County, South Carolina resident.