Welcome to the News Center!

Sometimes known as liquid gold, nutrient-dense colostrum is the first milk individuals who breastfeed produce before their mature milk supply comes in. However, it’s important to note the colostrum supplements currently gaining popularity are not intended for infants.

Soy seems to have an equal number of fans and enemies. Should we go out of our way to eat more soy or avoid it? Unlike some hot-button food trends, there is a lot of research on soy, allowing food and nutrition professionals to offer evidence-based answers to questions and concerns about soy-based foods and beverages.

Considered one of the most contagious infectious diseases, the release of a measles vaccine in 1963 led to significantly fewer cases in the United States. However, recent outbreaks have raised the question of if there are nutrition interventions that can be used to treat or prevent it.

Serving as an expert witness is not mandatory and, if contacted by an attorney, an individual may decline. However, there are several reasons someone may choose to serve as an expert witness.

Nova is the name for the system developed by the Center for Epidemiological Studies in Health and Nutrition, School of Public Health at the University of São Paulo in Brazil. The Nova system has four groups of processed foods, with group 1 being the least processed and group 4 being the most processed.

On April 24, 2024, the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Food and Nutrition Services published a final rule on child nutrition programs which aligns more closely with the 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans and will go into effect on July 1, 2024. These updates include limitations on added sugars and sodium in school meals.

Any cancer that starts in the colon or rectum is considered colorectal cancer. Colorectal cancer is currently the fourth leading cause of cancer and the second highest cancer-related cause of death in the U.S., based on 2023 estimates.

Nutrition may be an important modifiable risk factor in the strategy to prevent or delay the onset of dementia and other forms of cognitive decline. Learn about the MIND diet and its potential health benefits.

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics applauds the recently reintroduced, bipartisan and bicameral Treat and Reduce Obesity Act (TROA) in the 119th U.S. Congress. The Academy has been a longtime champion of TROA, which was first introduced in the U.S. Congress in 2013 and consistently generates bipartisan support.

HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. and CMS Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz announced that several major health insurers have voluntarily pledged to streamline and improve PA processes across Medicare Advantage, Medicaid Managed Care, Marketplace and commercial plans.

The Academy is proud to endorse the SBM's recently released position paper outlining key policy solutions necessary to prevent hunger and reduce nutrition and food insecurity among American children.

The Academy supports bipartisan efforts to reform Medicare payment policy and urges Congress to create a more stable and sustainable reimbursement system that protect access to care and ensure the financial viability of providers, including RDNs.

The Academy joined a coalition of organizations in sending appropriations request letters to the Chairs and Ranking members of the House and Senate Appropriations Subcommittees on Labor, Health and Human Services, Education and Related Agencies.

The Academy sent a letter to Congressional Appropriators, signed by 20 trusted health organizations, calling for immediate protection of nutrition programs.

The Academy has endorsed both the Opportunity to Address College Hunger Act and the No Hungry Kids in Schools Act.

The Academy joined a 215 organizations that support patients and families impacted by eating disorders, urging Congress to address the increasingly critical public health issue in the United States.

Yesterday, the Make American Healthy Again (MAHA) Commission released its assessment report, “Making Our Children Healthy Again.” This assessment, commissioned by the White House in February, provides an overview of factors that may contribute to current conditions impacting children’s health, including dietary, behavioral, medical and environmental influences.

The Academy is dedicated to supporting federal nutrition programs that promote public health and well-being and has engaged in numerous advocacy efforts, including sending multiple letters to policymakers and asking members to take action.

MNT delivered by RDNs is a proven, cost-effective approach to preventing and managing chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease and obesity, helping people improve their health through personalized nutrition care.

The historic Dietitian Licensure Compact legislation has passed in Kansas, making it the ninth state to do so. The Academy commends the Kansas Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics for their advocacy efforts in championing this bill to reduce licensure burden and expand access to nutrition care services across the country.

HHS Secretary Kennedy recently announced that states will be granted waivers allowing them to restrict SNAP purchases, including bans on sugar-sweetened beverages.

Utah has officially become the eighth state to enact the Dietitian Licensure Compact, further advancing the nationwide effort to modernize licensure and expand access to nutrition care.

Governor Tate Reeves signed the Dietitian Licensure Compact into law, making Mississippi the seventh state to enact this legislation and triggering the formation of the Compact Commission.

Governor Kelly Armstrong signed the Dietitian Licensure Compact into law on March 19, 2025, making North Dakota the sixth state to enact this legislation.

Congress recently passed a new Continuing Resolution to keep the government funded through September 30, 2025, and includes several key provisions relevant to Academy members.

Governor Larry Rhoden signed the Dietitian Licensure Compact into law on March 6, 2025, making South Dakota the fifth state to enact the compact, a major step forward in expanding access to nutrition care.

The Academy has submitted its statement for the record for the Ways and Means Health Subcommittee hearing "Modernizing American Health care: Creating Healthy Options and Better Incentives."

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics submitted recommendations for consideration in response to the Scientific Report of the 2025 Dietary Guidelines Advisory Committee. Review the highlights and access the full comments.

In response to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services’ request for comments, the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics highlighted the valuable role of registered dietitian nutritionists in evidence-based care, providing services including medical nutrition therapy under Medicare Part B in communities across the country.

The federal government faces a potential shutdown if funding isn't secured by the midnight deadline. Academy staff are monitoring this situation and Academy consultants in Washington, D.C., are actively engaging with members of Congress to emphasize the critical ramifications a shutdown will have on Academy members and health care systems along with federal nutrition programs.

In light of the GOP’s control across the executive and legislative branches, see how the lame duck session and key issues may impact policies of particular importance to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics is proud to support the bipartisan Medicare Patient Access and Practice Stabilization Act, a critical bill to prevent proposed Medicare physician fee cuts set to take effect January 1, 2025.

After more than a decade of advocacy, the Congressional Budget Office released a report on the anticipated cost impact of Medicare coverage of obesity medications. While the report does not score the Treat and Reduce Obesity Act, it contains important information that will help shape future policy.

The Academy’s advocacy has resulted in significant wins for the profession and quality care in the payment system that the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) uses to reimburse hospitals for inpatient services. The final rule included three specific positive outcomes for nutrition and dietetics professionals related to payment models, expanded quality measures for malnutrition and star ratings.

The Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services acknowledged the substantial feedback from the Academy, registered dietitian nutritionists and stakeholders regarding the proposed removal of malnutrition and "at risk for malnutrition" from the Non-Therapy Ancillary (NTA) comorbidities list in a recent Request for Information located within the CY25 Skilled Nursing Facility Proposed Rule.

A U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs policy change will allow registered dietitian nutritionists (RDNs) to provide additional diabetes care including medical device training and support for continuous glucose monitors (CGMs) as part of an expanded scope of practice.

The critical role of nutrition in enhancing health care outcomes was the focal point of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics' recent letter to Congress, urging a stronger emphasis on nutrition care within the 21st Century Cures Act.

Registered dietitian nutritionists are included as collaborators in the newly proposed Increasing Access to Organ Transplants (IOTA) Model, but the Academy is advocating for more integration of nutrition care. The Academy’s recommendations focus on developing metrics that ensure access to medical nutrition therapy and support patient adherence to dietary and supplement guidance provided by RDNs.

Access to obesity treatment for Medicare beneficiaries took a promising step forward with passage of a scaled-back version of the Treat and Reduce Obesity Act (TROA).

A medically tailored meals pilot project gained support on Thursday, June 27, from the House Ways and Means Subcommittee on Health in the form of an amendment to the American Medical Innovation and Investment Act (H.R. 8816) during committee mark-up.

The Skilled Nursing proposed rule, issued by CMS, outlines regulatory changes and updates for skilled nursing facilities, covering reimbursement rates, quality measures and policies related to Medicare payments and services in the skilled nursing and long-term care settings. In response to a Request for Information included in the proposed rule, the Academy advocated for continued inclusion of malnutrition and at-risk malnutrition in the NTA Classification List. 

The Dietitian Licensure Compact facilitates telehealth, providing licensees with opportunities for multistate practice.

The increases in food insecurity in the U.S. following the pandemic and link between food and agriculture make the Farm Bill a critical and timely legislative issue.

With the updates announced today by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, child nutrition programs will align more closely with the 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans and increase flexibility and food options that honor cultural preferences and traditions.

The Iowa Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics successfully advocated to maintain dietetic licensure in the state. The national Academy supports professional licensure for dietitians to protect the public by enforcing objective standards in qualifications and regulation of practice and was pleased to partner with the Iowa Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics to achieve this win for RDNs and all Iowans.

The Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) will now align more closely with the 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans and allow food options to meet participants’ dietary needs and choices according to culture, religion, preference, allergies, and/or living situations. The Academy voiced support in the rule-making process for the increased access to healthful foods for women, babies, children and their families made possible in the final rule.

Ten years after the repeal of Michigan’s dietetics and nutrition licensing law, the Michigan Legislature passed legislation to protect the safety of Michiganders by licensing dietitian nutritionists and the practice of medical nutrition therapy. This historic move underscores the commitment of Michigan lawmakers to prioritize the health and well-being of its citizens by ensuring that those seeking medical nutrition therapy services receive accurate, evidence-based care from qualified professionals.

Academy policy leaders from across the country gathered Thursday, April 4, in Washington, D.C., to meet with congressional offices to discuss two of the Academy’s top policy priorities: expansion of medical nutrition therapy and nutrition security. Learn more about their efforts and how you can get involved.

Nebraska’s legislature has passed Dietitian Licensure Compact legislation, paving the way for increased practice opportunities for licensed dietitians in the state as well as across state lines. Nebraska is the first state in the country to pass this groundbreaking legislation.

In a comment letter submitted to the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, the Academy acknowledged the many challenges facility-based providers face in submitting claims for MNT when the service is delivered by registered dietitians from an outpatient facility-based location.

The Academy continues to advocate for Older Americans Act programs, which is the primary vehicle for delivering social and nutrition programs to older adults. On March 19, 2024, the Academy submitted the following for consideration to the U.S. Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions.

The Academy advocated for improved network adequacy standards, fair Medicare Advantage rates and the incorporation of RDNs and MNT into quality measures in comments to the CMS regarding the CY 25 Advance Notice for Medicare Advantage and Medicare Part D Prescription Drug Programs.

One of the Academy’s top advocacy priorities is advocating for federal programs, including WIC, that increase access to nutritious, safe, culturally relevant and affordable foods that improve health and well-being. The Academy supports full funding for WIC to allow all eligible women and children to participate in the program and receive important health and nutrition benefits.

In response to the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s request for input on “Food Distribution Programs: Improving Access and Parity,” the Academy emphasized the importance of USDA and state agencies sharing information, especially on how to access benefits, in multiple formats, such as posting information at community centers, senior centers, schools and community health centers.

The establishment of a proposed Healthcare Common Procedure Coding System Level II code is a vital step in empowering Medicare beneficiaries to actively engage in their treatment recommendations, addressing their individual health needs, and advancing the Academy’s commitment to health equity and disease treatment and prevention.

Passage of the Medical Nutrition Therapy Act would be a win-win for the profession and the communities Academy members serve. Add your support with three simple steps.

The Academy's consensus statement underscores the need for equitable access to nutrition care, including MNT delivered or supported by RDNs, to improve the health of older adults living in long-term care and community settings.

A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted by the Evidence Analysis Center to evaluate the effect of MNT provided by dietitians on nutrition status and key health outcomes compared to no MNT for patients with protein-energy malnutrition.

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics has released a new position paper called “Vegetarian Dietary Patterns for Adults: A Position of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics,” which provides an excellent review of the latest research on vegetarian and vegan diets.

Type 1 diabetes mellitus is one of the most common chronic diseases among children and adolescents in the U.S., with a notable rise over the past two decades. The Academy recently published new guidelines for RDNs offering medical nutrition therapy to children and adolescents ages 6 to 19 with T1DM.

Evidence-based practice (EBP) is the foundation of nutrition and dietetics care. As a member benefit, the Academy offers tools and resources to incorporate EBP into members' work to improve practice, as well as client and patient outcomes.

Recently published online in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, the paper "Communicating Nutrition and Dietetics Research: A Crucial Step to Advancing Evidence-Based Practice" provides recommendations and considerations for how all RDNs, even those not affiliated with the research, can and should participate in communication and dissemination of nutrition research.

The paper Incretin-Based Therapies and Lifestyle Interventions: The Evolving Role of Registered Dietitian Nutritionists in Obesity highlights the RDN's role in comprehensive obesity care, provides expert guidance and advocates for expanded access to RDN-provided MNT in addition to obesity medications, opportunities for RDNs to advise on medication management, and a leadership role for RDNs on interdisciplinary care teams.

Heart disease (also known as cardiovascular disease) is the number one cause of death in the U.S. according to the CDC. Individuals can significantly reduce their risk of developing heart disease by making changes to their diet.

Plant-based dietary patterns, including vegetarian and vegan diets, have been shown to be beneficial to human health for a variety of reasons. In a new systematic review, researchers found that vegetarian eating may help manage Type 2 diabetes (T2DM).

Ensuring optimal nutrition during transitions from hospital to home remains a significant challenge for older adults, particularly those facing food insecurity and malnutrition. Learn about the CONNECT Study's innovative approach.

“Food as medicine” is a hot topic with great potential to improve the health of Americans. Registered dietitian nutritionists have the unique knowledge and skill set to champion these initiatives.

Registered dietitian nutritionists play an important role in timely identification of malnutrition and implementation of effective interventions. A new evidence-based practice guideline aims to provide RDNs with the tools they need to help protect susceptible older adults.

The AAIM Validation study assessed all six malnutrition indicators: subcutaneous fat loss, muscle loss, weight loss, reduced energy intake, functional status, and fluid accumulation. Findings support the predictive validity of the AAIM tool, suggesting its suitability for routine use in diagnosing malnutrition in hospitalized adults.

Published in Nutrition in Clinical Practice, this study describes completion rates of Nutrition-Focused Physical Exams (NFPE) by registered dietitian nutritionists in hospitalized adults and children.

Researchers wanted to know: Does MNT from a RDN could lower blood pressure, decrease cardiovascular risks and improve other health measures compared to standard care or no intervention? Learn more from this systematic review.

The Evidence Analysis Library’s Vegetarian Nutrition project focuses on two aspects: disease management and disease prevention. This comprehensive analysis provides insights for nutrition and dietetics practitioners working with people who are interested in or following vegetarian or vegan diets.

Authors of a new article argue that a comprehensive nutrition assessment should go beyond just counting calories and nutrients to truly harness the power of nutrition intervention. They suggest considering internal factors such as genetics and disease, as well as external factors such as access to nutritious food, environmental conditions and exposure to toxins.

The newly released guideline summarizes the recommendations and supporting evidence, including that all individuals with celiac disease should follow a gluten-free diet that may include gluten-free oats in adults.

Published in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, a new Position Paper on the role of MNT behavioral interventions for adults with overweight or obesity underscores how providing interventions that facilitate improvement of dietary intake and other health behaviors can improve nutrition-related outcomes in this population.

The objective of this review was to summarize the state of the science on the nutrient composition of human milk in the United States and Canada published from 2017 to 2022.

A recent CKD guideline implementation study found that registered dietitian nutritionists from two national dialysis chains were almost universally using dialysis center serum phosphate goals instead of the goal recommended by the updated KDOQI guideline.

A new umbrella review of systematic reviews describes the best available evidence on the impact of obesity prevention interventions with a nutrition component.

Older adults are at risk for malnutrition due to a variety of factors such as physical and mental changes, isolation and limited income. Health care practitioners, particularly registered dietitian nutritionists, need evidence-based guidance to provide quality nutrition care to older adults living in long-term care and community settings.

Explore the Academy's achievements for fiscal year 2024-2025 as we celebrate our key successes.

Deanne Brandstetter, MBA, RD, CDN, FAND, the Academy's 2025-26 President, shares important upcoming goals and changes for our organization.

The following individuals have been selected in recognition of outstanding service and contributions to the nutrition and dietetics profession.

Harlivleen "Livleen" Gill, MBA, RDN, LDN, FAND, the Academy's 2024-25 President, shares important upcoming goals and changes for our organization.

HHS Secretary Kennedy and FDA Commissioner held a joint press conference to announce FDAs intent to phase out the use of petroleum based synthetic food dyes through actions and industry commitments.

To inform and support the development of the Academy's new strategic plan, a Current State Assessment was conducted to assess the existing landscape of the organization and profession and guide actionable strategies and priorities for the Academy moving forward.

In October 2024, through global research consultant Avenue M Group, the Academy conducted focus groups with members and nonmembers to explore the challenges, goals and value received from the Academy and alternative resources. Learn more, including how these insights will be used moving forward.

Harlivleen "Livleen" Gill, MBA, RDN, LDN, FAND, the Academy's 2024-25 President, shares important upcoming goals and changes for our organization.

The Academy's work in inclusion, diversity, equity and access focuses on cultivating organizational and professional values of equity, respect, civility and anti-discrimination and expanding a culture of welcoming throughout the nutrition and dietetics community.

In 2020, the Academy commissioned The Exeter Group to conduct an analysis aimed at understanding members' perceptions, experiences and feedback on diversity, equity and inclusion.

Various focus groups and discussions were conducted at the 2024 Food & Nutrition Conference & Expo^®. The feedback highlights both the need for and challenges in advancing Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Access (IDEA) within the Academy, as well as potential opportunities for improvement and future aspirations.

Watch this message from Academy CEO Wylecia Wiggs Harris, PhD, CAE, to learn about the Academy’s mission to support and elevate the profession of RDNs and NDTRs, including what the Academy is doing now and in the near future.

Harlivleen "Livleen" Gill, MBA, RDN, LDN, FAND, the Academy's 2024-25 President, shares important upcoming goals and changes for our organization.

In 2024, Blue Cross Blue Shield agreed to a $2.8 billion antitrust settlement, which includes substantial reforms affecting how BCBS-affiliated plans operate, with major implications for health care providers, employer-sponsored health insurance and consumer choice.

Harlivleen "Livleen" Gill, MBA, RDN, LDN, FAND, the Academy's 2024-25 President, shares important upcoming goals and changes for our organization.

The Academy and its Foundation send our thoughts to those affected and offers a list of resources for wildfire recovery.

Harlivleen "Livleen" Gill, MBA, RDN, LDN, FAND, the Academy's 2024-25 President, shares important upcoming goals and changes for our organization.

Harlivleen "Livleen" Gill, MBA, RDN, LDN, FAND, the Academy's 2024-25 President, shares important upcoming goals and changes for our organization.

The approved 2024 ICD-10-CM codes went into effect on October 1, 2024, and will be in use until September 30, 2025. This update includes 395 new diagnosis codes, 25 deletions, and 13 revisions, with several changes relevant to registered dietitian nutritionists. Learn more about the new codes and how to use them.

The Academy’s National Honors and Awards recognize those who have advanced the profession, exhibited leadership and shown devotion to serving others. To prepare for upcoming deadlines, compile key documents in advance with these tips.

The Academy and its IDEA Committee will focus on these objectives over the next three years. Learn more about how the Academy will create a more inclusive and equitable organization that reflects the shared values of its community.

Harlivleen "Livleen" Gill, MBA, RDN, LDN, FAND, the Academy's 2024-25 President, shares important upcoming goals and changes for our organization.

Harlivleen "Livleen" Gill, MBA, RDN, LDN, FAND, the Academy's 2024-25 President, shares important upcoming goals and changes for our organization.

Harlivleen "Livleen" Gill, MBA, RDN, LDN, FAND, the Academy's 2024-25 President, shares important upcoming goals and changes for our organization.

The following individuals have been selected in recognition of outstanding service and contributions to the nutrition and dietetics profession.

The Academy's president's message to members concerning an article published in The Washington Post and The Examination regarding "anti-diet" advice and dietitians role in pushing that advice.

In alignment with our commitment to accessibility, sustainability and meeting the evolving needs of our readers, the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (JAND) will transition to a digital-only format starting January 1, 2026.

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics received the Gold MyPlate Champion achievement for its participation in the MyPlate National Strategic Partnership and for efforts promoting MyPlate for the inaugural cycle of Partner Recognition Program.

For the first time in its history, the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics has released policy statements and evidence-informed rationales for each of the organization's focus areas. The statements and supporting rationale outlined in the President’s Strategic Advancement Groups Report will be instrumental in shaping the Academy’s future policy and advocacy efforts.

The Academy has transitioned Food & Nutrition Magazine^® content — including feature articles, practice trends, research briefs and app reviews — to a new home on eatright.org and eatrightPRO.org.

The Academy Board of Directors is seeking nominations for its representative to the International Confederation of Dietetic Associations.

The Council on Future Practice is seeking focus group volunteers to provide feedback for a brief on navigating misinformation and disinformation in practice.

The HBA and Academy are partnering to invite members to participate in the "Mental Health, Wellness & Work: A Survey of the Healthcare Industry" global survey.

The Academy’s House of Delegates is seeking valuable insights from practitioners, students, educators and members like you! Your perspective is essential in shaping the future of dietetics by helping us understand how evidence-based nutrition practice guidelines, position papers and consensus statements are used in real-world settings.

Academy members are invited to share how they are making an impact as a registered dietitian nutritionist or nutrition and dietetics technician, registered. Complete a short survey for a chance to be featured in Academy social media posts, websites and newsletters during National Nutrition Month^®.

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics' consensus statement emphasizes the need for equitable access to nutrition care, particularly MNT provided by RDNs, to improve health outcomes for older adults in long-term care and community settings. Academy members are encouraged to review this draft consensus statement and provide feedback via an online survey by Friday, February 21, 2025.

Join 2024-2025 Academy President Livleen Gill, MBA, RDN, LDN, FAND for a fireside chat that will focus on the Academy's current policy goals and advocacy strategies while examining how the results of the 2024 election could impact next steps.

An updated Position Paper from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics discusses evidence-based benefits and potential risks of following vegetarian including vegan dietary patterns for different populations, and strategies to facilitate healthy vegetarian/vegan dietary patterns in specific populations and settings. Peer review is an important part of developing Position Papers. Feedback from members is essential for refining and enhancing practitioner resources such as this.

Member Input Requested: National Nutrition Month^® 2025 Theme and Logo Survey

The inaugural CEO Advisory Panel will play a pivotal role in advising on strategic initiatives and contributing to the future direction of the Academy. It will involve dynamic discussions and generating innovative solutions as a group.

Learn about some great and affordable ways to get around, see the town and eat well when you're at FNCE^® 2024. And, brush up on some cost-saving tips for registration, earning CPEUs, booking your hotel and flying to the city.

To better understand the levels of stress and burnout within the profession, the Council on Future Practice is requesting Academy members to please share their insights and experiences via an online survey, which is open until Monday, September 16, 2024.

The Academy is preparing a summary of the information contained in the draft 2025 Medicare Physician Fee Schedule Proposed Rule and will host two listening sessions in August to inform members and solicit feedback that is essential to the comment-writing process.

A new Position Paper from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and the American Council on Exercise is in draft status; it discusses various topics to support these practitioners, including advanced certifications, effective communication with clients, access to preventive services, and future areas of practice. Peer review is an important part of developing Position Papers. Feedback from members is essential for refining and enhancing practitioner resources such as this.

Attendees of the first-ever forum explored malnutrition research efforts and gaps, implementation research needed to address different forms of malnutrition, and frameworks for consideration to inform future global research which will support national and local policies to combat this issue.

The Clinician Information Surveys are now being sent out by Mathematica — if you receive this survey, it's important to participate and share your feedback. Here's why.

Academy members who have lived through or worked in the midst of a natural disaster are invited to share experiences and insights in a short survey by February 19.

Academy members are invited to share their unique perspectives on what aspects of their profession evoke a sense of pride. Complete a short survey for a chance to be featured in Academy social media posts, websites and newsletters during National Nutrition Month^®.

Assistant director of performance nutrition at Texas A&M University, Jonathan Tanguay, MS, RDN, LD, fuels student athletes for peak performance.

April N. Hackert, MS, RDN, CEDRD, shares her perspective of the impact food has on mental health as a registered dietitian nutritionist and psychiatric clinical researcher.

Assistant professor and program director Arnetta Fletcher, PhD, RDN, LDN, helps to direct her university's strategic plan to ensure nutrition is a part of expanding programs.

Lara Field, MS, RD, LDN, shares how her interest in pediatrics and nutrition helped her expand and grow her private practice to also provide services for adults.

Telehealth dietitian Divya Aggarwal, MS, RDN, LD, explains how she helps clients achieve their goals as a health and wellness coach based in Cleveland, Ohio.

Educator Jacqueline R. Berning, PhD, RD, CSSD, shares her story starting out in sports dietetics, building a new center for sports medicine and serving as chair of her university's health science department.

Xismari Collazo-Colon, RDN, LD, a telehealth dietitian, shares the power of helping veterans by providing the right care at the right time that works for them.

Culture and entrepreneurship drive the work of registered dietitian Dezi Abeyta, RDN, as he builds a business and gives back to the Tucson community.

The director of a didactic program in nutrition and dietetics, Samantha M. Coogan, MS, RDN, CSSD, LD, FAND, creates confidence in her students to become future leaders of the profession.

Florida registered dietitian Kelsee Gomes, MS, RD, CSSD, LDN, CLT, shares how good nutrition inspires college football athletes and helps them prepare for games.

Renal nutrition dietitian Megan Gutierrez, MS, RDN, CSR, LDN, shares her story on giving back in the clinical care setting.

Topacio A. Ortiz, RDN, LMNT, describes her journey from combat medic to working in COVID-19 operations during the pandemic, as well as her passion for nutrition.

Four registered dietitian nutritionists — LCDR Kibbe Brown, MS, RDN, CDE; Luis Gonzalez, MS, RDN; Eunice Troupe, MS, RDN, LDN; and Demetrius Willis, MS, MBA, RDN, LDN — share how they change lives in their communities with food and nutrition.

Mary Niewinski, MS, RDN, LDN, works to teach future credential practitioners in nutrition and dietetics and oversees a team of registered dietitian nutritionists in clinical nutrition.

Debbie Petitpain, MS, RDN, LDN, wellness director in South Carolina, explains the many facets of her role serving the community and collaborating across the health care team.

Qwamel Hanks, NDTR, works to fight hunger in America through outreach with the School Breakfast Program.

Keiy Murofushi, MS, RD, explains his role in spreading knowledge on the importance of nutrition to create change in one individual at a time.

Registered dietitian nutritionist Cicely Thomas MEd, RDN, LD, shares how she incorporated her personal experiences and love of nutrition into helping communities.

Food scientist Marie Colmerauer, MS, CFS, NDTR, educates students on using tools we all have to make food choices that are not only convenient, but nutritious.