When I became a dietitian over 20 years ago, nutrition misinformation was not as proliferative as it is now. I worked in a teaching hospital in Rochester, NY, and I knew then that I wanted to make a difference in our profession to help elevate our credential. Over the years, that desire and passion has only grown. I’ve watched as roles once filled by RDNs have been turned over to non-RDNs. I’ve sat in meetings where RDNs have been bashed, and our credentials have been misconstrued. I’ve had to stand up to critics and naysayers about the importance of our background and the value we can contribute. And I've watched as the younger generation has walked away from completing the credential altogether. I’ve also had tremendous opportunities just for being an RDN. And I’ve been lucky enough to observe other RDNs doing so many amazing things. I want to help give RDNs of all walks of life and backgrounds a voice. Because our profession not only needs but must have a seat at the table where decisions about food, nutrition and the health of our communities are taking place. It’s time for our organization to change—to transform—and to evolve from where we’ve been to where we’re going.

Ever since I learned what a dietitian was, I have been hooked. I was active in my RDN community from an early age, volunteering for committees and serving in leadership roles throughout my career. I want to ensure our credential continues to be valued and that our profession continues to flourish. I also want to ensure we have an organization that represents the interests and needs of all our members. I will seek to help put the right leaders in positions to make this happen.