Kudos Corner

Below is an archive of our department's recent media appearances, awards, funded grants, publications, presentations, and other news highlighting the work of our faculty, staff, students, and alumni. To submit content for inclusion in our weekly Kudos email distribution, please use the link on the right-hand side of the page. Questions can also be directed to Dr. Emma Laing, Director of NUTR Communications at emonk@uga.edu.

• Media Appearances

  Oct 01, 2025

  • Meals from the Field | Garlicky Green Beans & Greek Sheet Pan Chicken (Tracey Brigman) – Farm Monitor 
  • Can spicy foods boost your metabolism? (Emma Laing) – Verywell Health 

  Sep 09, 2025

  • Meals from the Field | Slaw Dogs, Southern Potato Salad & Football Rice Krispies! (Tracey Brigman) – Farm Monitor 
  • Here’s Exactly What Happens to Your Body When You Drink Okra Water Every Day (Tracey Brigman) – Parade 
  • Seven eating tips to help you age healthier — backed by new research from 2025 (Emma Laing) – Health 
  • How to prevent osteoporosis in your 40s and 50s — the answers may surprise you (Emma Laing) – Yahoo Health 

  Aug 26, 2025

  • Eating more of this type of nut might be the easiest way to lower inflammation (Tracey Brigman) – Parade   
  • How to freeze carrots the right way — and keep them fresh for months (Carla Schwan) – Martha Stewart 
  • Dehydrating for beginners: Preserve the flavor to savor later (NCHFP) – AJC 
  • How to Prepare Your Pantry for an Emergency (Carla Schwan) – New York Times

  Aug 12, 2025

  • Eight low-sugar fruits that won’t spike your blood sugar (Emma Laing) – VeryWell Health
  • Brain-boosting supplements: All hype or some hope? (Emma Laing) – Medscape

  Aug 05, 2025

  • Four faculty named SEC Academic Leadership Development Fellows (Connie Rogers) – UGA Today
  • Meals from the Field: Focaccia & Fruit Pizza Fun! (Tracey Brigman) – Farm Monitor
  • Green Tea May Just Be the World's Healthiest Drink (Emma Laing) – Men’s Health

  Jul 15, 2025

  • New compound may help the brain heal itself after injury (Hea Jin Park) – UGA Today

  Jul 08, 2025

  • The unexpected benefits of eating hot peppers (Emma Laing) – Advisory Board

  Jul 01, 2025

  • Meals from the Field: Two Cherry-Inspired Recipes You’ll Love (Tracey Brigman) – Farm Monitor 
  • Does Eating Spicy Foods Help You Lose Weight? (Emma Laing) – Verywell Health, SmartBrief 
  • Dietetics director settles the egg yolk debate (Emma Laing) – UGA Today 

  Jun 20, 2025

  • The surprising health benefits of spicy food (Emma Laing) – Time 
  • Can olive oil shots really improve your skin and reduce bloating? (Emma Laing) – Everyday Health 

  Jun 10, 2025

  • Dietetics students achieve milestone by securing postgraduate internships (Avery Karp, Carly Lansberg, Emma Laing, Connie Rogers) – UGA FACS News  
  • 4 Warning Signs You're Not Eating Enough Fiber (Emma Laing) – Verywell Health 

  Jun 03, 2025

  • Do I need to refrigerate ketchup? An A-to-Z guide to storing condiments (Carla Schwan) – The New York Times 
  • Meals from the Field: 2 Easy Asparagus Recipes You’ll Actually Love (Tracey Brigman) – Farm Monitor 
  • Can Eating Red Meat on Your Period Really Help With Iron Loss? (Emma Laing) – Health 

  May 27, 2025

  • This Simple Rice Hack Can Cut Calories in Half, According to Registered Dietitians (Tracey Brigman) – Parade 
  • The 1 Thing That'll Wash Pesticides Off Fruits And Vegetables (Emma Laing) – BuzzFeed 

  May 20, 2025

  • How Meal Sequencing Could Prevent Blood Sugar Spikes (Emma Laing) – Verywell Health 
  • Magnesium Could Relieve Fibromyalgia and Migraines, and How It Works (Emma Laing) – Epoch Health 

  May 13, 2025

  • How to store hard-boiled eggs so they stay fresh for up to a week (Tracey Brigman) – Martha Stewart 
  • This fast food chain has the healthiest menu — here’s what to order (Tracey Brigman) – Parade 
  • Educators offer strategies for implementing weight-inclusive approach in dietetics training (Emma Laing) – University of Washington News 
  • Would You Eat 'Human Kibble'? Dietitians Weigh In on the Viral Social Media Trend (Emma Laing) – Health

  May 06, 2025

  • Why does coffee make me feel queasy — and how can I prevent that nausea? (Tracey Brigman) – Self

  Apr 29, 2025

  • Meals from the Field: Sweet & Savory Peanut Recipes You’ll Love (Tracey Brigman) – Farm Monitor 
  • How to Meal Prep for Two (and Stick to It) (Tracey Brigman) – The Knot 
  • Can you reuse plastic freezer and sandwich bags? (Carla Schwan, Tracey Brigman) – Martha Stewart 

  Apr 22, 2025

  • 2025 Student Employee of the Year awards announced (Jessica Harris, Alyssa Johnson, Anna Faye Dupree, Elizabeth Baran, Abriana Byrd, Katherine Ingerson) – UGA Today 
  • Dietetics director shares the benefits of exercise after eating (Emma Laing) – UGA Today 

• Awards and Honors

  Oct 01, 2025

  • Congratulations to Double Dawg dietetics major, PNE, and FACS Ambassador Gaby Contreras for receiving the 2025 Linda K. Crandall Nutrition Scholarship! 
  • Congratulations to Double Dawg dietetics major and FACS Ambassador Janyia Hightower for receiving the 2025 Colonel Nannie Rudd Evans Scholarship from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation! 

  Sep 23, 2025

  • Congratulations to Drs. Lilian Sattler and Sina Gallo on receiving a courtesy appointment in the Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics in the UGA College of Public Health!

  Sep 09, 2025

  • Congratulations to Double Dawgs dietetics major, Peer Nutrition Educator, and FACS Ambassador Janyia Hightower for being selected to serve on the UGA Vice President for Instruction’s Student Advisory Board for 2025-2026! The Student Advisory Board provides important feedback to Vice President Pagnattaro about a range of academic issues, helping to inform instructional excellence on campus. A photo of Janyia was shared on the NUTR Facebook and Instagram pages.

  Aug 26, 2025

  • Congratulations to Dr. Tracey Brigman for being recognized as a Career Advocate by the Career Everywhere Faculty Program at the UGA Career Center! 

  Aug 19, 2025

  • Congratulations to our department chair, Dr. Connie Rogers, who has been appointed as the FACS Senior Director of Health Initiatives. In this role, Dr. Rogers will continue her work with the instructional preparation of pre-health students (serving on the Task Force for Preeminence in Health and Medicine at UGA), and she will help coordinate our interprofessional education efforts, as well as liaising across the university to coordinate FACS linkages in interdisciplinary work related to health in engagement and research.
  • Congratulations to Dr. Robert Pazdro who has been selected to join the 2025-2026 cohort of FACS Faculty Leadership Fellows! Dr. Pazdro’s project is titled “Student-Centered Approach to Address the Unique Needs of the Rare Disease Community.” This project is relevant to service-learning and working with populations experiencing health challenges. Dr. Pazdro is also one of only nine Service-Learning Faculty Fellows selected from the 2025-26 cohort who will participate in a year-long program to develop new courses or integrate service-learning into existing courses or academic programs.
  • Congratulations to Dr. Sarah Henes for winning the Excellence in FACS/ANR Support for the State Staff award with the GA Association of Extension 4-H Youth Development Professionals (GAE4-HYDP)!
  • We are excited to welcome the 2025-2026 FACS Ambassadors! These talented students from our department have been selected by the college to represent us this academic year: Nutritional Sciences (Theodora Afantchao, Precious Ahabue, Madison Bunnell, Mills Crosland, Annie Gustavsen, Ashley Hayes, Mackenna Jenkins, Alex Peric, Callie Walton); Dietetics (Gaby Contreras, Tara Goff, Janyia Hightower, Olivia Luke, Hannah Patishnock, Molly Piller).

  Aug 12, 2025

  • Congratulations to PhD student Austin Mills for winning the Gerard P. Smith Award for best oral presentation given by a graduate student at the Society for the Study of Ingestive Behavior (SSIB) Annual Meeting in Oxford, UK!
  • Congratulations to Double Dawgs dietetics grad and current MS student Avery Karp for receiving a scholarship from the Georgia Dietetic Foundation!
  • Congratulations to dietetics major AJ Touat on his new role as General Manager of Osteria Olio at the Rivet House!

  Aug 05, 2025

  • Congratulations to Dr. Connie Rogers for being named an SEC Academic Leadership Development Fellow! Read the press release, here.
  • Congratulations to dietetics grad and incoming MS/DI student Jacob Pursell for receiving the Mazacoufa Scholarship from the Georgia Dietetic Foundation!

  Jul 22, 2025

  • Congratulations to recent PhD grad Magen Lord for winning 3rd place in the UGA Research Tattoo Contest ... where faculty, staff, and students literally wore their passion for science on their sleeves (or knees, backs, and forearms)!

  Jul 08, 2025

  • Congratulations to MS/DI student Claire Hawkins on the successful defense of her master’s thesis on 7/7! Claire's presentation was titled, "Dose Response Effects of Cottonseed Oil Consumption on Chronic Disease Risk Factors."

  Jul 01, 2025

  • Congratulations to PhD/DI student Claire Mouser on the successful defense of her doctoral dissertation on 6/18! Her presentation was entitled, “UGA EFNEP Food Talk: Baby & Me- An adapted program for low-income pregnant women and their families in Georgia.” We are so very proud of you, Dr. Mouser!

  Jun 20, 2025

  • Congratulations to MS/DI student Joan Song on the successful defense of her MS thesis on 6/12! Her presentation was entitled, “Regulation of the Antioxidant Glutathione: In the Cerebral Cortex and the Relationship With Peripheral Tissues.” 
  • Congratulations to PhD/DI student Tianli Wang for earning 2nd place in the Community & Public Health Nutrition RIS’ Emerging Leaders in Nutrition Science Poster Competition! Tianli received this recognition on May 31st at the American Society for Nutrition’s NUTRITION 2025 conference in Orlando, FL. 

  Jun 10, 2025

  • Congratulations to dietetics major Katie Miller who was awarded the Pam McIntyre Thompson R.D. Scholarship for the 2025-2026 school year! 
  • Congratulations to Stephanie Dubrof on the successful defense of her doctoral dissertation! The title of her presentation was, “the role of nutrition in brain development and health." We are extremely proud of you, Dr. Dubrof! 
  • Congratulations to PhD student Prince Osei for receiving recognition at the American Society for Nutrition’s NUTRITION 2025 conference in Orlando, FL! Prince's abstract was selected among the top finalists in the Emerging Leaders in Nutrition Science Poster Presentation Competition. 

  Jun 03, 2025

  • Congratulations to Lauren Housley on being appointed as a Generative AI & Teaching (GAIT) Faculty Fellow for 2025-2026! Dr. Housley is one of only 15 faculty selected for this honor by the UGA Center for Teaching and Learning.

  May 27, 2025

  • Congratulations to Tracey Brigman and the GAFCS for receiving national recognition from the American Association of Family & Consumer Sciences! As 2024-2025 GAFCS president, Dr. Brigman was part of the state-wide advocacy team that received one of only three program awards nationwide. Georgia, Minnesota, and Texas affiliates will receive this honor at the AAFCS Annual Conference on June 25th in Kansas City, MO, for their leadership and dedication to advancing FCS.

  May 20, 2025

  • Congratulations to MS/DI student Adelia Nunnally on the successful defense of her master’s thesis on 5/7! The title of Addie’s presentation was, "Association Between Sociodemographic Characteristics and Infant Feeding Beliefs of Animal Milk as an Alternative to Human Breast Milk Among Women of Childbearing Age."

  May 13, 2025

  • Congratulations to PhD students Prince Osei and Stephanie Dubrof who have been selected as recipients of the 2025 Endsley-Peifer Student Research Award from the College of FACS! The award recognizes students whose research during graduate school has made significant contributions to advancing knowledge in a physical/biological science or behavioral/social science specialty area in Family and Consumer Sciences. 
  • Congratulations to dietetics major, peer nutrition educator, and first-generation graduate, Yahaira Cuevas-Nunez who was honored at the First-Generation Graduation Celebration last week sponsored by UGA's Office for Student Success and Achievement (OSSA)! Photos were shared on the NUTR Facebook and Instagram pages. 
  • Congratulations to Emily Noble who was appointed as Program Committee Track 1 Chair at the Society for the Study of Ingestive Behavior.  

  May 06, 2025

  • Congratulations to Double Dawg dietetics major Maya Wright for being initiated into the University of Georgia chapter of the Alpha Alpha Alpha (Tri-Alpha) Honor Society on April 24th! This national honor society recognizes the achievements of first-generation scholars.  
  • Congratulations to our department’s FACS Featured Graduates for Spring 2025, Mieke Brink, Magen Lord (Roper), Grace Wagner, Emilie Franz, Marco Giraldo, and Anna Stalzer! Photos were shared on the FACS and NUTR Facebook and Instagram pages. 

  Apr 29, 2025

  • Congratulations to post-baccalaureate DPD student Kelly Quinn-Echevarria for receiving the Grit Award! The UGA Student Veterans Resource Center presents the "Richard Warner - Grit Award" to student veterans who have overcome significant challenges and continue to excel academically and professionally. A photo of Kelly was shared on the NUTR Facebook and Instagram pages, and she will receive her award at the Veterans Honor Cord and Scholarship Ceremony on April 29th at the Tate Center. 
  • Congratulations to Double Dawgs dietetics major Megan Shoupe for being recognized by St. Mary’s Health Care System as a "Remarkable Student!" Megan's outstanding performance in our NUTR 5910: Dietetics Practicum course this semester left a positive impression on her RDN supervisors and other members of the healthcare team. A photo of Megan was shared on the NUTR Facebook and Instagram pages. 
  • Congratulations to the newly elected members of our 2025-2026 SDA Exec Board! 
    • Molly Piller, President 
    • Gaby Contreras, Vice President 
    • Meera Datta, Treasurer 
    • Kailey Breed, Secretary 
    • Jayla Justice, Communications Chair 
    • Savannah Regnier, Community Service Chair 
    • Anna Gillespie, Public Relations Chair 
    • Eliana Lynch, Social Chair

  Apr 22, 2025

  • Congratulations to PhD/DI student Sitara Cullinan for receiving the 2025 International Association for Food Protection Travel Scholarship! This award is among the highest recognitions a student can receive in food safety worldwide! Sitara will be recognized at the opening ceremony of the IAFP 2025 Annual Meeting, which will take place in Cleveland, Ohio July 27-30. 
  • Congratulations to Double Dawgs dietetics major Juliet Guthrie for being selected to study at the University of Oxford this fall! Juliet will be completing her undergraduate degree at Oxford through UGA’s Franklin College of Arts and Sciences, and she is excited for the opportunity to learn one-on-one from esteemed Nutrition professors in such an historic and inspiring academic environment. 
  • Congratulations to nutritional sciences major Jasmine Akinpelu for being selected for the 2025 Minority Research Training (MHTR) Program at the University of Alabama Birmingham School of Public Health! This program, funded by the National Institutes of Health and administered by the Department of Epidemiology, offers qualified students research training opportunities in the biomedical and health-related sciences in the USA or in developing countries. 
  • Congratulations to our UGA Dining Services Nutrition Clerical Students who received the 2025 UGA Student Employee Team of the Year Award! Nominated by Dr. Katherine Ingerson, the team was selected by the UGA Career Center for going above and beyond in their service to others. Team members include dietetics students Elizabeth Baran and Abriana Byrd, dietetic technician Jessica Harris, MS student Anna Faye Dupree, and MS/DI student Alyssa Johnson. In addition to the presentation of the Team Award, the top 100 student employees were honored at the UGA Student Employee of the Year Awards Luncheon held at the Tate Student Center on 4/16. The press release is linked here. 
  • Congratulations to Professor Emerita Joan Fischer for being honored by the Georgia Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics for 50 years of service to the profession! 

• Grants Received

  Sep 23, 2025

  • Congratulations to Dr. Sina Gallo for receiving a new R21 titled, "Pregnancy changes in vitamin D metabolism, maternal obesity and the association with offspring bone: a secondary analysis of two cohorts" from the National Institutes of Health.
  • Congratulations to Dr. Emily Noble for receiving a new R01 titled, "Leptin in the VMH and energy balance" from the National Institutes of Health.

  Sep 09, 2025

  • Congratulations to Dr. Alison Berg for receiving the grant titled, “A strategic approach to expanding access to chronic conditions support programs for people with or at risk for diabetes,” from the Georgia Department of Public Health. 
  • Congratulations to Dr. Connie Rogers for receiving the grant titled, “School Nutrition Director Certification Program FY26,” from the Georgia Department of Education. 

  Apr 22, 2025

  • Congratulations to PhD/DI student Sitara Cullinan for receiving a Summer Research Grant from the UGA Graduate School! This grant enables doctoral students to conduct research in support of their dissertations. 

• Publications

  Sep 23, 2025

  • Lilian Sattler and colleagues have a paper recently published in BMJ Open. The citation is: Ka MM, Gaye ND, Tukakira J, Kyem D, Gary-Webb T, Sattler ELP, Jobe M, Gaye B. Trends over time in age-standardised prevalence of cardiometabolic risk factors in Senegal between 1975 and 2021 by sex: an ecological study from the WHO Inequality Data Repository. BMJ Open 2025;15(7):e101323. 

  Sep 09, 2025

  • Magen Lord, Grace Madu, Laura Loera Lopez, Jessica Lin, and Emily Noble had a paper recently accepted in Pharmacology Research & Perspectives, titled "Cannabinoid-induced hyperphagia is mediated by increased meal frequency and the orexin-1 receptor in male rats.”

  Aug 12, 2025

  • Prince Osei, Alex Anderson, Christabel Domfe, and colleagues have a paper published in Nutrients, titled “Energy and Nutrient Intakes of Public Health Concern by Rural and Urban Ghanaian Mothers Assessed by Weighed Food Compared to Recommended Intakes.”

  Jul 22, 2025

  • Leah Halls and colleagues have a paper titled "Dihydrosterculic acid induces hepatic PPARα target gene expression in mice" that was just accepted for publication in The Journal of Physiology.

  Jul 01, 2025

  • Mary Lazzaro, Austin Mills, and Emily Noble have a paper recently accepted for publication in Neuropharmacology. The title is, “Adolescent nutritional influences on the brain: implications for eating behaviors.” 

  May 27, 2025

  • Sina Gallo, Alex Anderson, and colleagues have a paper in press in the Journal of Steroid Biochemistry & Molecular Biology. The title is: “Changes in Vitamin D Biomarkers Across Pregnancy and by Maternal BMI: A Secondary Analysis of Data and Biospecimens from the National Children's Study,” and other authors include Skylar Mercer, Xianyan Chen, Biplav Tiwari, Sheree Boulet, & Janani Thapa.

  May 13, 2025

  • Stephanie Dubrof and Hea Jin Park have a paper accepted for publication in BBA - Molecular and Cell Biology of Lipids. The title is, “The effect of perinatal supplementation of DHA on specialized pro-resolving lipid mediators in the brain of offspring.” 
  • Emily Noble and co-author Ruth Harris have a paper accepted for publication in the American Journal of Physiology-Endocrinology and Metabolism. The title is, “Leptin in the VMH contributes to the initial overconsumption of palatable diets by rats.”

  Apr 29, 2025

  • Michelle Parisi and colleagues have a paper accepted for publication in the Journal of Family and Community Health. The title is: "Contextualizing rural/non-rural differences in pediatric primary care patterns in South Carolina: A mixed-methods study," and other authors include Koob, C, Meggett, K, and Griffin, S.  
  • Sina Gallo, Jung Sun Lee, Caree Cotwright, and colleagues have a paper in press in the Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior. The title is: “Black Parents’ eLearning Preferences and Expectations of an Online Beverage Program to Improve Healthy Beverage Consumption Among Young Children,” and other authors include Chisom Okoli, Jennifer Thompson, Janani Thapa, and Sun J. (Grace) Ahn. 
  • Emma Laing and colleagues have a paper in press in the Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior. The title is: “Incorporating Nondiet and Weight-Neutral Principles in a University Dietetics Curriculum,” and other authors include Nicholas Slagel, Daniel Hall, Yu Wang, Dawn Clifford, Cristen Harris, Jeffrey Hunger, Zoe Duran, and Katelyn Crawley. 

  Apr 22, 2025

  • Dulce Minaya and colleagues have a paper published in Nutrition Research. The title is: "Microbiota-induced inflammation mediates the impacts of a Western diet on hippocampal-dependent memory," and authors include Eden Crain and Claire de La Serre.  
  • Emma Laing and colleagues have a paper accepted for publication in the Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior. The title is: “Incorporating Weight-Inclusive Approaches in Higher Education Curriculum for Future Nutrition and Dietetics Professionals,” and authors include Dawn Clifford, Cristen Harris, Nicholas Slagel, Jordan Levinson, Nikole Squires, and Jeffrey Hunger. 

• Presentations and Events

  Oct 01, 2025

  • Please join us for seminar on Wednesday, October 8th, from 11:30 a.m. to 12:20 p.m. in Dawson Hall room 306 to hear from Prince Osei from the University of Georgia. His presentation is titled, "Passive Dietary Monitoring System for Assessment of Dietary Intake: Insights from A Mixed-Method Field Study in Ghana".
  • The UGA graduate program, including the dietetic internship program is having a virtual open house on October 17th from 1:30-4:30 pm. Details are on the website: https://www.fcs.uga.edu/fdn/graduate. Register at this link. 
  • Dietetics alumna Jazmine Medrano will be a panelist at the 2025 Georgia Latino Education Summit (GLES) on October 25th at the Zell B. Miller Learning Center. Registration for the event is open now until October 17th. Register here. 

  Sep 23, 2025

  • Please join us for seminar tomorrow, Wednesday, 09/24/2025, from 11:30 a.m. to 12:20 p.m. in Dawson Hall room 306 to hear from Dr. Patrick O'Connor from the University of Georgia. His presentation is titled "Acute influence of beverages containing low and moderate doses of a coffeeberry extract on aspects of mental alertness and cycling performance".
  • The next SDA meeting will be held on 9/24 at 5:30 pm in Room 116 Dawson. The annual Supervised Practice Forum will take place with several dietetic internship programs represented (including UGA's MS/DI and PhD/DI, Augusta University, Emory University Hospital, and Wellness Workdays). 
  • Dr. Lilian Sattler was invited to deliver the following presentations at international meetings:  
    • “New Developments for the Treatment of Cardiometabolic Disease” as representative of the American Society for Nutrition at the 23rd International Union of Nutritional Sciences International Congress of Nutrition in Paris, held August 24-29, 2025 
    • "Ending Rheumatic Heart Disease: Advanced Strategies for Diagnosis, Intervention, Care, and Treatment" at the seminar on Global Data, Local Solutions: Improving Cardiometabolic Health in Africa at the Nuffield Department of Population Health at Oxford University, UK, held on June 5, 2025 
  • The next FACS Family Road Trip event will take place in Macon, GA on Thursday, September 25. Register Here if you’d like to attend. You’ll hear from Dean Zvonkovic on exciting college updates, connect with FACS alumni and friends in the heart of Middle Georgia, and enjoy a special interactive cooking demonstration with Skye Estroff (BSFCS dietetics ’15)—Atlanta-based food expert and media personality known for making food approachable, flavorful, and fun! The cost is $5 per person. 
  • Deborah Blum and Francisco Diez-Gonzale will present the Food, Power, and Politics Lecture, “What's on the Table? Food Safety in Georgia, the South, and Beyond” on September 23, 2025 at 6 p.m. in UGA Special Collections Building, Room 285. Blum is a celebrated author known for her works about chemistry, toxicology and the existence of poisons in our everyday lives. Diez-Gonzalez is the director of the Center for Food Safety and a professor in the department of food science and technology at UGA. Details here.

  Sep 16, 2025

  • Please join us for seminar tomorrow, Wednesday, 09/17/2025, from 11:30 a.m. to 12:20 p.m. in Dawson Hall room 306 to hear from Dr. Virginia Stage from North Carolina State University. Her presentation is titled "Plates, Predictions, & Practices: Rethinking Early Childhood Nutrition Education". 
  • The next SDA meeting will be held on 9/24 at 5:30 pm in Room 116 Dawson.  
  • Dr. Emily Noble presented a seminar on 9/9 in Animal Dairy Science, titled "Adolescent diet and the gut microbiome-brain connection.” Dr. Noble also received an invitation to speak at an NIH NIDDK workshop titled, “Mid-Career Faculty Panels: Overcoming setbacks and challenges” which will take place in Bethesda, MD in February. 
  • The next FACS Family Road Trip event will take place in Macon, GA on Thursday, September 25. Register Here if you’d like to attend. You’ll hear from Dean Zvonkovic on exciting college updates, connect with FACS alumni and friends in the heart of Middle Georgia, and enjoy a special interactive cooking demonstration with Skye Estroff (BSFCS dietetics ’15)—Atlanta-based food expert and media personality known for making food approachable, flavorful, and fun! The cost is $5 per person. 
  • Deborah Blum and Francisco Diez-Gonzale will present the Food, Power, and Politics Lecture, “What's on the Table? Food Safety in Georgia, the South, and Beyond” on September 23, 2025 at 6 p.m. in UGA Special Collections Building, Room 285. Blum is a celebrated author known for her works about chemistry, toxicology and the existence of poisons in our everyday lives. Diez-Gonzalez is the director of the Center for Food Safety and a professor in the department of food science and technology at UGA. Details here. 
  • The UGA Health & Wellness Pitch Competition supports student entrepreneurs with innovative solutions in health and wellness. Participants receive targeted mentorship, skill-building workshops, and multiple opportunities to refine their pitch with feedback from faculty, alumni, and industry leaders. Visit this site for more information. Application deadline is September 30th. The competition will feature up to 6 finalists pitching for cash prizes on Monday, November 17th at Studio 225, The Student Center for Entrepreneurship. Each student business will bring their idea, business, or product for a chance to win prize money totaling $17,500. 

  Sep 09, 2025

  • Please join us for seminar tomorrow, Wednesday, 09/10/2025, from 11:30 a.m. to 12:20 p.m. in Dawson Hall room 306 to hear from Dr. Nandita Perumal from the University of South Carolina. Her presentation is titled “Nutrition in pregnancy and adverse perinatal outcomes: evidence from low-resource settings.”  
  • The next SDA meeting will be held on 9/10 at 5:30 pm in Room 101 Dawson. Dr. Emma Laing will present the DICAS Workshop for students interested in applying to dietetic internships. 
  • The next FACS Family Road Trip event will take place in Macon, GA on Thursday, September 25. Register Here if you’d like to attend. You’ll hear from Dean Zvonkovic on exciting college updates, connect with FACS alumni and friends in the heart of Middle Georgia, and enjoy a special interactive cooking demonstration with Skye Estroff (BSFCS dietetics ’15)—Atlanta-based food expert and media personality known for making food approachable, flavorful, and fun! The cost is $5 per person. 
  • Take charge of your health this fall with UGA Extension’s free Online Health Extension for Diabetes program led by Dr. Michelle Parisi. You will learn practical strategies to manage diabetes, get support from peers, and work with trained health professionals. Click here to learn more and register. When: Wednesdays, 5:45–6:45 PM | Dates: September 3 – December 17, 2025 | Where: Online via Zoom | Cost: Free. 

  Aug 26, 2025

  • Please join us for seminar tomorrow, Wednesday, 08/27/2025, from 11:30 a.m. to 12:20 p.m. in Dawson Hall room 306 to hear from Dr. Basheera Enahora from North Carolina State University. Her presentation is titled "Driving Improved Health and Nutrition Security in Rural North Carolina: Highlights from Two Pilot Studies." 
  • The first SDA meeting for fall 2025 will be held on August 27th at 5:30 pm in Room 101 Dawson. Questions about joining SDA? Reach out to SDA President, Molly Piller (molly.piller@uga.edu). 
  • Dr. Michelle Parisi, with collaborators at North Carolina State University, presented a poster at the Society for Nutrition Education and Behavior Conference and published an associated abstract in the Journal of Nutrition Education and Behavior for the work entitle: "Bridging the Gap in Diabetes Management: Evaluating the NC State Pilot of the Health Extension for Diabetes (HED) Program."

  Aug 19, 2025

  • The first SDA meeting for fall 2025 will be held on August 27th at 5:30 pm in Room 101 Dawson. Questions about joining SDA? Reach out to SDA President, Molly Piller (molly.piller@uga.edu).
  • View the NUTR Facebook and Instagram pages and the FACS Flickr page to enjoy photos from the FACS Welcome Back Bash on Tuesday, 8/12 and the first day of fall ‘25 classes on Wednesday, 8/13.
  • Take charge of your health this fall with UGA Extension’s free Online Health Extension for Diabetes program. You will learn practical strategies to manage diabetes, get support from peers, and work with trained health professionals. Click here to learn more and register. Program details:
    • When: Wednesdays, 5:45–6:45 PM
    • Dates: September 3 – December 17, 2025
    • Where: Online via Zoom
    • Cost: Free

  Aug 12, 2025

  • Mark your calendars! The first SDA meeting for fall 2025 will be held on August 27th at 5:30 pm in Room 101 Dawson. Questions about joining SDA? Reach out to SDA President, Molly Piller (molly.piller@uga.edu).
  • Dr. Emily Noble’s lab attended the SSIB annual meeting from July 28-August 1 in Oxford, UK. Highlights include:
    • Mary Lazzaro presented the poster “Time-Restricted Feeding in Adolescent Female Rodents and Susceptibility to Obesity”
    • CJ Petty presented the poster “Leptin Effects on Primary Cilia and Energy Homeostasis”
    • Rawad Basma (recent graduate) presented the poster "Effect of an Adolescent Western Diet on the Brain and Impulsive Eating Behavior in Rodents”
    • Laura Loera Lopez presented her poster “Hippocampal Metabolic Abnormalities Following Western Diet Consumption in a Mouse Model”
    • Grace Madu presented the poster “Melanin Concentrating Hormone Effects on Ethanol Intake in Female Rats: Sites of Action”
    • Austin Mills delivered the oral presentation “Effects of Semaglutide Injections on Weight and Body Composition in an Adolescent Rodent Model"
    • Dr. Magen Lord (recent graduate) earned a certificate for her outstanding work as the president of the New Investigator Advisory Committee.
  • Dr. Carla Schwan’s lab attended the IAFP Annual Meeting from July 27-30 in Cleveland, OH. Highlights include:
    • Sitara Cullinan presented a poster titled, “Microbial Hazard Survey of Fresh Produce Available at Athens-Clarke County, GA-Serving Retailers.” Co-authors included: Mallika Mahida, Leonardo Bastos, Jackson Borders, Grazieli Maboni, Dulce Minaya, and Carla Schwan.
    • Mallika Mahida presented a poster at the IAFP Marketplace titled, “Freeze-Drying at Home: Research-Based Resources for Consumers and Extension Educators.” Co-authors included: Mallika Mahida, Nadia Abi, Shannon Coleman, Mary-Grace Danao, and Carla Schwan.
  • Mallika Mahida presented a poster at the Extension Internship Program Graduation titled, “Kimchi 101: Developing a Toolkit for Safe Home Fermentation through Cooperative Extension.” Authors: Mallika Mahida and Carla Schwan.

  Aug 05, 2025

  • Mark your calendars! The first SDA meeting for fall 2025 will be held on August 27th at 5:30 pm in Room 101 Dawson. Questions about joining SDA? Reach out to SDA President, Molly Piller (molly.piller@uga.edu).
  • All incoming graduate students are invited to access the Graduate School Online Orientation and attend the Welcome Fair on Monday, August 11. The Graduate School Online Orientation includes information important for graduate education experiences. For more information, visit the Graduate School website. Or contact our Director of Graduate Studies, Dr. Alex Anderson (fianko@uga.edu).
  • Biomedical physiology and microbiology double major Mohana Malapati (mentor: Dr. Emma Laing) delivered the oral presentation, “Impact of the Student Food Pantry on Academic Success and Engagement with UHC Nutrition Services,” at the CURO Summer Research Fellows Summer Forum.

  Jul 22, 2025

  • Mark your calendars! The next SDA meeting will be held on August 27th at 5:30 pm in Room 101 Dawson.

  Jul 15, 2025

  • Mark your calendars! The next SDA meeting will be held on August 27th at 5:30 pm in Room 101 Dawson.

  Jul 08, 2025

  • Please share with FACS alumni you know! The College is looking to inspire current and future FACS Dawgs by spotlighting our amazing alumni. Help us show future FACS grads that a degree from our college can take them anywhere. Complete this form, and your profile will be shared on the FACS website this fall: https://www.fcs.uga.edu/alumni/alumni-profiles

  Jul 01, 2025

  • Please join us next Monday, July 7th, 2025, at 1:00 PM in Ramsey Student Center Room 215 to hear from MS/DI student Claire Hawkins! Claire's presentation is entitled, "Dose Response Effects of Cottonseed Oil Consumption on Chronic Disease Risk Factors."
  • We are sharing an upcoming professional development opportunity featuring Dr. Carla Schwan! The 2025 Summer School for Consumer Food Safety Education is a webinar series sponsored by Purdue University and designed for educators and Extension professionals. Sessions will be held on July 9th, 16th, and 23rd, 2025, from 1:00–2:00 PM ET via Zoom. Register here.

  Jun 20, 2025

  • Our graduate students presented their research at the American Society for Nutrition’s NUTRITION 2025 conference in Orlando, FL that was held 5/31-6/3. The citations are below, and photos were shared on the NUTR Facebook and Instagram pages. 
    • Prince Osei: “Potential of Automatic Ingestion Monitor (AIM-2) for Dietary Assessment in Rural and Urban Children in Ghana.” Co-authors: Alex Anderson, Tom Baranowski, Christabel Domfe, Gary Frost, Sina Gallo, Jingying Gao, Daniel B Hall, Benny Lo, Megan McCrory, Edward Sazonov, Matilda Steiner-Asiedu, and Mingui Sun. 
    • Tianli Wang: “The Interactive Effect of Prenatal Vitamin D Status and Maternal Obesity on Birth Outcomes among US Black Women: A Secondary Analysis of Two ECHO Cohorts." Co-authors: K. O'Callaghan, A. Anderson, Z. Lu, K. Dalrymple, and S. Gallo.  
    • Addie Nunnally: “Awareness of Breastfeeding Recommendations and Law Among Women of Childbearing Age in the United States.” Co-Authors: Sina Gallo and Alex Anderson. 
    • Madison Walsh: “Changes in Gut Microbiota Composition Following Perinatal Docosahexaenoic Acid Supplementation and its Association with Brain Functional Connectivity at Weaning.” Co-authors: Soon Lee, Stephanie Dubrof, Ishfaque Ahmed, Qun Zhao, Jeferson Lourenco, Hea Jin Park. 

  Jun 10, 2025

  • Please join us next Thursday, June 12th at 11:30 AM in Dawson Hall Room 306 to hear from MS/DI student Joan Song. Her thesis is entitled, “Regulation of the Antioxidant Glutathione: In the Cerebral Cortex and the Relationship With Peripheral Tissues.” 
  • PhD/DI student Alyssa Guadagni presented a poster on May 28th at the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) Annual Meeting in Atlanta, GA. The citation is: A.J. Guadagni, C.A. Ward, J.A. Cooper. Running Performance in Response to Different Forms of Carbohydrate. A photo of Alyssa was shared on the NUTR Facebook and Instagram pages. 

  Jun 03, 2025

  • Incoming graduate students are invited to engage with the New Graduate Student Orientation, which is delivered asynchronously through an online platform. New students will receive direct communication about this platform via email. This orientation includes important information regarding the Graduate School and campus resources. More information, here. Fall Orientation begins August 1. In addition, new graduate students who are based in Athens will be invited to join the Welcome Fair on August 11.

  May 27, 2025

  • Incoming graduate students are invited to engage with the New Graduate Student Orientation, which is delivered asynchronously through an online platform. New students will receive direct communication about this platform via email. This orientation includes important information regarding the Graduate School and campus resources. More information, here. Summer Orientation begins June 2 and Fall Orientation begins August 1. In addition, new graduate students who are based in Athens will be invited to join the Welcome Fair on August 11.

  May 20, 2025

  • Michelle Parisi delivered a presentation to the Athens YWCO on 5/16 regarding diabetes awareness and management. Photos were shared on the YWCO and NUTR Facebook page. 
  • Incoming graduate students are invited to engage with the New Graduate Student Orientation, which is delivered asynchronously through an online platform. New students will receive direct communication about this platform via email. This orientation includes important information regarding the Graduate School and campus resources. More information, here. Summer Orientation begins June 2 and Fall Orientation begins August 1. In addition, new graduate students who are based in Athens will be invited to join the Welcome Fair on August 11. 

  May 13, 2025

  • FACS Convocation was held on May 9th at the Classic Center. View the official program here. Nutritional Sciences major LaLah Crisp and MS student Gracie O’Neal served as Marshals. Department Head, Connie Rogers, was a member of the platform party, and Tracey Brigman was the Reader. Photos were shared on the FACS and NUTR Facebook and Instagram pages as well as the FACS Flickr page. 

  May 06, 2025

  • Please join us this Wednesday, May 7th, 2025 at 11:30 AM in Dawson Hall Room 306 to hear from Adelia Nunnally, a master's student in the Department of Nutritional Sciences! Adelia's thesis is titled, "Association Between Sociodemographic Characteristics and Infant Feeding Beliefs of Animal Milk as an Alternative to Human Breast Milk Among Women of Childbearing Age." 
  • The FACS convocation will take place on May 9th at 3 p.m. at The Classic Center. Watch the livestream on: youtube.com/ugafacs. 

  Apr 22, 2025

  • Please join us this Friday, April 25th, 2025, at 10:00 AM in Dawson Hall rm. 310 to hear from Sierra Woodruff, a Master's Student in the Department of Nutritional Sciences! Her thesis is titled "Development of Meal Kit Intervention Resources for Charitable Food Assistance Programs in Georgia."
  • The Nutritional Sciences Graduate Student Organization hosted their annual Networking Event on Wednesday, 4/16. The GSO invited RDs (many of whom are NUTR alumnae) from fields spanning from clinical dietetics (Rose Sebaugh, Whitni McConnell, Mary McKennon Pierce), dining (Katherine Ingerson), sports performance (Kailey Patrick), and school nutrition (Sara Sheridan). This event provided a great opportunity for students to network with peers and professionals in the field. 
  • Please join us for the Third Annual Lynn Bailey Lectureship with honorary guest speaker, Barbara Rolls, Professor and Helen Guthrie Chair in Nutritional Sciences at Penn State University. Her presentation is entitled, "The Big Three: Properties of Food That Drive Intake." Dr. Rolls is internationally recognized for her research on the influence of food characteristics (i.e. variety, energy density, and portion size) on energy intake across the lifespan. She is the author of more than 250 research articles and six books, including The Volumetrics Weight Control Plan and The Volumetrics Eating Plan. The lectureship will occur on Wednesday, April 23rd, 2025, at the Special Collections Library Rm. 271 from 11:30am - 12:30pm with a reception to follow. 

• Alumni News

  Oct 01, 2025

  • Anna Faye Dupree is the recipient of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation’s 2025 Mead Johnson Nutrition Scholarship. 
  • Cindy Kanarek Culver is the recipient of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation’s 2025 Lenora Morange Memorial Award Scholarship.  
  • Clayton “Cole” Bryant started a new position as Research and Development Technologist at Ornua. 
  • Mieke Brink started a new position as an Intern at The Sprouting Kitchen. 
  • Avery Lusk started a new position as Registered Dietitian Nutritionist at Nourish. 
  • Christabel Domfe has been accepted to the 2025-2026 cohort of the UC Davis Leaders for the Future Fellowship. 

  Sep 23, 2025

  • Jazmine Medrano will be a panelist at the 2025 Georgia Latino Education Summit (GLES) on October 25th at the Zell B. Miller Learning Center. Registration for the event is open now until October 17th. Register here. 
  • Tiolulope Popoola has been accepted to the MSc in Public Health for Global Practice at the School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine at the University of London. 
  • Hallie (Chestnutt) Allison obtained her licensed RN credential through the Georgia Secretary of State Board of Nursing. 

  Sep 16, 2025

  • Claire Hawkins, Sierra Woodruff, and Joan Song earned their RDN credentials through the Commission on Dietetic Registration. Photos were shared on the UGA Dietetic Internship and NUTR Facebook and Instagram pages. 
  • Taylor Morris started a new position as Senior Pharmaceutical Sales Specialist at AstraZeneca. 
  • Samantha Hill accepted an RN position in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit starting in November at the HCA FL Gulf Coast Hospital.

  Sep 09, 2025

  • Whitney Okie Mbipeh, Vice President of Operations at Thomas Jefferson University Hospitals, was recently recognized by the Becker’s Healthcare Rising Stars: Healthcare Leaders under 40 list. 
  • Jessica Strosahl is joining the new cohort of NIH-funded Georgia CTSA TL1 Trainees for the project “Defining Protein Requirements in Adults with PKU: Impact of Genotype and Medical Food Intake.” 
  • Celia Croxton started a new position as an AI Analyst with Avance, supporting GlobalLogic. 
  • Amanda Kennedy started a new position as Contract Registered Dietitian Nutritionist at Progress Over Perfection Wellness Group. 
  • Whitney Sanders started a new position as Retail Manager at the University of Rochester. 
  • Chelsea Freeman was featured in a post by the Northeast Health District – WIC Program about National Breastfeeding Month. 

  Aug 26, 2025

  • Sherifa Akinniyi recently completed two research-intensive summer experiences: the Summer Clinical Otolaryngology Research (SCORE-Oto) program at Kaiser Permanente Oakland Medical Center and the KPNC Introduction to Integrated Health Care (IIHC) Program. In these experiences, Sheri contributed to clinical research through data analysis, abstract and manuscript preparation, and exposure to ambulatory clinics and the operating room. She also connected with healthcare leaders and engaged in workshops centered on evidence-based medicine, technology, integration, and population-based care.  
  • Frances Perkinson received her master’s degree from American University and started a new position as Registered Dietitian at Nourish. 

  Aug 19, 2025

  • Neal Chauhan earned his RDN credential on August 19th from the Commission on Dietetic Registration.
  • Rose Sebaugh has been promoted to the role of Level II Inpatient Clinical Dietitian at Emory University Hospital Midtown.

  Aug 12, 2025

  • Sydney Kayler, PA-C, RD started a new position as Physician Assistant at Atlanta Gastroenterology Associates.
  • Tevin Duncan was featured by UGA Rec Sports in their #HumansOfRamsey series as their former coordinator of fitness and wellness.
  • Emily Owen started a new private practice named “Be EmPowered Nutrition Counseling.”
  • Catherine Ruter started a new position as Sports Dietitian at Vanderbilt University.
  • Amelia Valdez started a new position as sports dietitian for Middle Tennessee State University Athletics. She is also pursuing a PhD in Human Performance with a focus on Exercise Physiology at MTSU.
  • Tina Brauda started a new position as Nutritionist at the Georgia Department of Public Health.
  • Tiffany Vo received her RDN credential on 8/6 from the Commission on Dietetic Registration.

  Aug 05, 2025

  • Sara Sohani taught the basics of medicine to over 200 middle and high school students as the Mini-Med Summer Camp student director for the Augusta University/UGA Medical Partnership. In the posted photos, high schoolers are shown conducting a neurological exam with Sara as the patient. Sara is a rising second-year medical student and graduated with bachelor’s degrees in nutritional sciences and psychology in 2023.
  • Jessica Strosahl delivered an oral presentation titled, “Substantial Dietary Intake Variation in Phenylketonuria Highlights Implications for Clinical Trial Design,” at the Southeastern Regional Genetics Group (SERGG) Annual Meeting.
  • Tevin Duncan received his RDN credential from the Commission on Dietetic Registration and currently holds a sports dietitian position for the Las Vegas Raiders.
  • Carlee (Collmus) Habicht founded the private practice, CCH Nutrition.
  • Emily Hance received the Certified Nutrition Support Clinician (CNSC) credential from the National Board of Nutrition Support Certification, Inc.
  • Kendall Santamaria graduated with her Doctorate in Nursing Anesthesia from Augusta University.

  Jul 22, 2025

  • Jordan Hill (BSFCS, Dietetics, BSFCS, Consumer Foods, 2015) was featured in a recent FACS alumni spotlight. A photo was shared on the NUTR Facebook and Instagram pages.
  • Elizabeth Klingbeil was quoted in The Washington Post article, “What to eat to protect your aging muscles.”
  • Julie (Dean) Spahn was promoted to Senior Specialist in Regulatory and Scientific Affairs at Nestlé in the Global Culinary Kitchen division.
  • Carter Bailey started a new position as Medical Assistant at MainStreet Family Care.
  • Anna Nguyen was just accepted to the WIC dietetic internship, a highly competitive program operated by the GA Department of Public Health. A photo was shared on the NUTR Facebook and Instagram pages.

  Jul 15, 2025

  • Avery Lusk, Madeleine Zeiler, Tristan Forbes, Emily Crum, and Jamie DiBartolomeo recently earned their RDN credentials from the Commission on Dietetic Registration.

  Jul 08, 2025

  • Hillary Savage was promoted to Executive Director of School Nutrition at Clarke County Schools.
  • Jiyoung Kim started a new position as Senior Postdoc Scientist at Emory University School of Medicine.
  • Melissa Cruz wrote the article “Cucumber Lime Agua Fresca (Agua de pepino con limón),” which was published in Nutrition con Sabor.
  • Annette Washington obtained the Health Informatics Certification from Johns Hopkins University.

  Jul 01, 2025

  • Amy Goss has been named one of the inaugural Excellence in Nutrition Fellows by the American Society for Nutrition (ASN).
  • Cindy Kanarek Culver has been appointed as a member of the UGA Latino Alumni Council.
  • Hannah Wilson has been appointed Chair-Elect of the Nutrition Educators of Health Professionals DPG of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.
  • Shriya Bhatnagar started a new position as Enterprise Technology (AI/ML) Project Manager at Loyal Source Government Services.
  • Lauren Dodge has been promoted to Service Designer at Partners in Public Innovation.
  • Emily Tyus started a new position as Nurse Practitioner at Piedmont Augusta.
  • Jessica Beasley started a new position as Registered Dietitian at Georgia Institute of Technology.
  • Alix Valery started a new position as Emergency Department Technician at Northside Hospital.

  Jun 20, 2025

  • Ben Gray was featured on the Food Export Podcast in the episode, “The Power of Storytelling in Global Trade.” 
  • Jaclyn (Barta) Buck received Board Certification as a Nutrition Support Clinician from the NBNSC. 
  • Emily Jones received Board Certification as a Diabetes Care and Education Specialist from the CBDCE. 
  • Zach Grunewald received recognition as a member of the 16th graduating class from the Radiology Leadership Academy at Emory Healthcare. 
  • Whit Cooney earned his RDN credential on 6/6 from the Commission on Dietetic Registration and started a new position as pediatric RDN at Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta – Scottish Rite. 
  • Bayla Rush started a new position as Gastrointestinal Sales Specialist at VIVUS, LLC. 
  • Kelli Dunagan started a new position as Registered Dietitian at Swap Health. 
  • Mary Elizabeth Altman started a new position as Registered Dietitian at UF Health. 

  Jun 10, 2025

  • Madeleine Zeiler started a new position as RD at Montefiore Einstein in New York, NY. 
  • Megan (Houston) Fonclara started a new position as PA-C, RD at MedLink Rabun in Clayton, GA. 
  • HannahJane Kedzierski started a new position as Functional Registered Dietitian at Revolution Health. 
  • Mary Elizabeth Altman earned her RDN credential on 6/7 from the Commission on Dietetic Registration. 

  Jun 03, 2025

  • Hallie (Chestnutt) Allison is one of only four recipients in TN to receive the 2025 Tennessee Nurses Foundation Regional Educational Scholarship. 
  • Chelsea (Freeman) Barnes was honored by the State of Georgia Department of Public Health for 10 years of service as Nutrition Services Director for the Northeast Health District WIC Program. 
  • Cindy Kanarek Culver has been selected as the recipient of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics 2025 Excellence in Management in Practice Award. 
  • Jayla Thurman has been appointed as New Member Liaison with the Georgia Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. 

  May 27, 2025

  • Danny Kwak has been promoted to Senior Application Analyst at Wellstar Health System. 
  • Carleen Mullins started a new position as Clinical Registered Dietitian at Wellstar Health System. 
  • Courtney Keith started a new position as Registered Dietitian at Dietitian Live. 
  • Abigail Klinker started a new position as Outpatient Dietitian at Summerfield Custom Wellness. 
  • Sydney Kayler obtained her Physician Assistant – Certified (PA-C) from the National Commission on Certification of Physican Assistants. 
  • Chisom Okoli authored a blog post for Diversify Dietetics titled, “Diversified Culinary Awareness: Spotlighting 3 Cultural Foods Across 3 Continents.” 

  May 20, 2025

  • Cindy Kanarek Culver became a Fellow of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. 
  • Carly Clark received the Sally Fischer Registered Dietitian Scholarship on behalf of the Augusta District Dietetic Association. 

  May 13, 2025

  • Betsy Cogan appeared on KVRR Local News in the segment, “Weight On Your Mind? This Study Might Want You.” 
  • Alexis Nosiri was quoted in the article,“6 Hydrating Foods You Should Eat for Better Blood Sugar, According to Dietitians,” published in EatingWell. 
  • Skye Estroff wrote the article, “Ask the Experts: Where do you find quality meals at decent prices?” published in the May 2025 issue of Atlanta Magazine. 
  • Grace Burton earned her RDN credential on 5/13 from the Commission on Dietetic Registration. 

  May 06, 2025

  • Lauren Coheley Spain started a new position as Pediatric Medical Science Liaison at Abbott.

  Apr 29, 2025

  • Lori Maggioni was selected for merit-based promotion to Lieutenant Colonel! During the past 15 years on Active Duty, Lori has served in Recruiting Command, Medical Command, and Forces Command.  
  • Michelle Gooden was quoted in the AJC article “Atlanta dietitian shares bitter truth of artificial sweeteners." 
  • Elizabeth Klingbeil has been named a Fellow of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. 
  • Aimelia Papakonstantinou started a new position as Associate Professor at the Agricultural University of Athens in Athens, Greece.  
  • Julia Lance started a new position as Clinical Dietitian at Piedmont Athens Regional. 
  • Bethany Kieth started a new position as Specialty Sales Executive at Nestlé Health Science. 
  • Mary Elizabeth Altman accepted a position as Dietitian at UF Health-St. Jonh’s in St. Augustine, FL. 

  Apr 22, 2025

  • Cindy Kanarek Culver was elected to the 2025-2026 Nutrition and Dietetics Educators and Preceptors Council as Preceptor Director and will begin her term on June 1, 2025. Cindy was also elected to the 2025-2026 Georgia Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Board of Directors as Atlanta Region Representative. 
  • Rebecca McKemie earned the Board Certified Specialist in Renal Nutrition (CSR) credential from the Commission on Dietetic Registration. 
  • Liana Guarneiri was promoted to Principal Scientist at Midwest Biochemical Research. 
  • Claire Roembke will attend the High Point Physician Assistant Program as a member of the 2027 graduating class. 

• Instructional Highlights

  Oct 01, 2025

  • Dr. Vibha Bhargava visited Dr. Hea Jin Park’s NUTR 4630 Cultural Aspects of Foods and Nutrition course last week to present on "The Taste of India.” Photos were shared on the NUTR Facebook and Instagram pages.

  Sep 23, 2025

  • Our Peer Nutrition Educators led by Dr. Katherine Ingerson had a very successful 2024-2025! Linked here is a synopsis of their school year and educational hours that they provided to the UGA campus and Athens-area partners.

  Sep 16, 2025

  • Pharm D students led by the UGA College of Pharmacy's Dr. Brian Seagraves visited Dr. Emma Laing's Medical Nutrition Therapy class last week. The pharmacy students are proficient in conducting blood pressure and blood glucose readings within community and clinical settings, and they led the dietetics students and dietetic interns in 1:1 instruction and practice using these techniques that are also important within the dietetics profession. Photos were shared on the NUTR Facebook and Instagram pages.

  Sep 09, 2025

  • Dr. Carla Schwan visited Dr. Hea Jin Park’s NUTR 4630 Cultural Aspects of Foods and Nutrition course last week to present on Brazilian food culture, health status, and the public health system. Photos were shared on the NUTR Facebook and Instagram pages.

  Aug 26, 2025

  • A few glimpses into our Ghana Service-Learning Study Away Program in summer '25 can be viewed in this video. This course is led by Dr. Alex Anderson.

  Aug 19, 2025

  • A few glimpses into our Nutrition and Culinary Study Away program in Korea and Japan in summer '25 can be viewed in a reel posted today on the NUTR Facebook and Instagram pages. This course is led by Dr. Hea Jin Park.

  Jul 22, 2025

  • Our PNEs and the Athens YMCA collaborated on several nutrition & physical activity events this year! This partnership was sponsored by the 2024 Bobbi Meeler Sahm Service and Outreach grant that was awarded to the UGA dietetics programs. Photos were shared on the NUTR Facebook and Instagram pages.

  Jul 01, 2025

  • PhD/DI student Mary Lazzaro and MS/DI student Sierra Woodruff are practicing blood pressure measurements at their clinical rotations this week at Piedmont Athens Regional. Photos were shared on the UGA Graduate Dietetic Internship Instagram and Facebook pages.  
  • The FACS-Ghana Service-Learning Study Away Program blogs are up! Follow the students' journey, experience, and activities at this link. There will be updates every week.

  Jun 20, 2025

  • The FACS-Ghana Service-Learning Study Away Program blogs are up! Follow the students' journey, experience, and activities at this link. There will be updates every week.

  Jun 03, 2025

  • Join the 2025 Summer Drink Water, Georgia! Campaign. Receive text messages encouraging you and your family to improve your health by drinking more water. Text Water or Agua to 833-712-1267.

  May 27, 2025

  • The deadline for Graduate School July-September conference travel grants is Thursday, June 5, 2025. Please refer to the website here for details. Students must apply through their academic department.

  May 20, 2025

  • Are you looking for a meaningful way to give back to the UGA community? The UGA Student Food Pantry is seeking volunteers for the summer to help provide vital support to students who are facing food insecurity. Your time and effort can make a significant impact—whether through regular shifts or a one-time commitment. Individual or Group Volunteering available. You can also request a group reservation by emailing ugapantry@uga.edu. 

  May 13, 2025

  • UGA Recreational Sports has announced a renovation project to add around 10,000 square feet of strength and conditioning space to the Ramsey Student Center. Named “Strength and Conditioning III,” or “S&C III” for short, the goal is to open the new space sometime during fall 2026. Click here to read the full story.

  May 06, 2025

  • Graduate Student Conference Travel Grants (for travel July 1-September 30, 2025) are due Thursday, June 5, 2025. Students must apply through our department and must submit an unofficial transcript to the Graduate Coordinator, Dr. Alex Anderson, to confirm they meet the eligibility criteria listed in the current Call for Applications.

  Apr 29, 2025

  • This summer, the third-floor west wing of the Miller Learning Center will become the Creative Engagement Wing. The project is a partnership between the UGA Libraries, the Office of Instruction and EITS and includes a relocation of the Makerspace and enhancements to the Digital Media Lab, Writing Center, and more.

  Apr 22, 2025

  • UGA Office of Service-Learning is offering a leadership opportunity to join Coaching4Success and help mentor and inspire 4th and 5th grade student-athletes across Athens-Clarke County. Please refer to the website, and email Karen Raymond with any questions (karen.raymond@uga.edu). You can also complete the interest link. 

• Student Spotlights

  Oct 01, 2025

  • This week’s student spotlight features Double Dawg dietetics major Laurel Renfroe! Laurel was recently recognized by the UGA Office of Experiential Learning for her role as a Peer Nutrition Educator. Read about her experience on the NUTR and EL Instragram pages.

  Sep 23, 2025

  • This week’s student spotlight features Double Dawgs dietetics major Maya Wright who was recently inducted into the UGA chapter of the Alpha Alpha Alpha Honor Society. Tri-Alpha is a national honor society that recognizes the achievements of first-generation scholars.

  Sep 16, 2025

  • This week’s spotlight features PhD student Austin Mills who won the Gerard P. Smith Award for best oral presentation given by a graduate student at the Society for the Study of Ingestive Behavior (SSIB) Annual Meeting in Oxford, UK!

  Sep 09, 2025

  • This week’s student spotlight features the 2025-2026 FACS Ambassadors! These talented students from our department have been selected by the college to represent us this academic year: Nutritional Sciences (Theodora Afantchao, Precious Ahabue, Madison Bunnell, Mills Crosland, Annie Gustavsen, Ashley Hayes, Mackenna Jenkins, Alex Peric, Callie Walton); Dietetics (Gaby Contreras, Tara Goff, Janyia Hightower, Olivia Luke, Hannah Patishnock, Molly Piller).

  Aug 26, 2025

  • This week’s student spotlight features our new dietetic interns! Please join us in officially welcoming Alyssa Focht, Jacob Pursell, Tyler Mayo, Anoosh Mahum, Claire Johnson, and Fibia Gee.

  Aug 19, 2025

  • This week’s student spotlight features our Peer Nutrition Educators and the Athens YMCA who collaborated on several nutrition & physical activity events this year! This partnership was sponsored by the 2024 Bobbi Meeler Sahm Service and Outreach grant that was awarded to the UGA dietetics programs.

  Aug 12, 2025

  • This week’s student spotlight features PhD/DI student Sitara Cullinan accepting the International Association for Food Protection Travel Award this summer at the IAFP 2025 Annual Meeting in Cleveland, OH!

  Aug 05, 2025

  • This week we are highlighting nutritional sciences major Alex Peric! Alex was recently featured by UGA’s First-Year Forum on Instagram as a 2025-2026 Peer Leader. Alex is a rising sophomore in our department and is also a FACS Ambassador!

  Jul 22, 2025

  • This week we are highlighting nutritional sciences major Abby George! Abby was recently featured in UGA Homecoming‘s Meet Exec series on Instagram as the 2025-2026 Organization Events Chair. Abby is a rising sophomore in our department, and in her spare time volunteers with UGA’s Campus Kitchen to help address food waste and insecurity in the Athens Community.

  Jul 15, 2025

  • This week we are highlighting "a little Dawg DI family reunion” at Piedmont Athens Regional! Interns Addie Nunnally and Mary Lazzaro spent some time learning from Piedmont RDN Julia Lance, who graduated from our DI last summer.

  Jul 08, 2025

  • This week we are highlighting the students participating in our FACS-Ghana Service-Learning Study Away Program led by Dr. Alex Anderson! Follow the students' experiences and activities at this link.

  Jul 01, 2025

  • This week we are highlighting our students who participated in the 2025 study away program to Korea and Japan! Follow their journey on Instagram @uganutri.koreajapan.

  Jun 10, 2025

  • This week we are highlighting our dietetics graduates who were selected to attend competitive dietetic internships this year! Students were featured on the NUTR Facebook and Instagram pages and in the UGA FACS News press release, here.

  Jun 03, 2025

  • This week we are highlighting our students who participated in the 2025 study away program to Switzerland, Austria, and Germany. Follow their journey on Instagram @uga_nutrition_abroad.

  May 27, 2025

  • This week we are highlighting PhD student Prince Osei who has been selected to receive the M. Josephine Martin Emerging Leader in Policy Award from the College of FACS! This award honors students who are interested in policy centered on health and nutrition.

  May 20, 2025

  • This week we are highlighting our undergraduate students who presented their research at the 26th annual CURO Symposium 4/7-4/8 at the Classic Center! Presenters in our department and pictured here include Edith Kahiga, Josie Lee, Sydney Munnagle, Megan Dixon, Jessie Ricco (PI: Jamie Cooper), Emilie Franz (PI: Chad Paton), and Katie Gen (PI: Sina Gallo). If you have photos from the 2025 CURO Symposium that you would like us to share, please email emonk@uga.edu.

  May 13, 2025

  • This week we are highlighting our department’s FACS Featured Graduates for Spring 2025, Mieke Brink (Double Dawg dietetics), Emilie Franz (nutritional sciences), Anna Stalzer (dietetics), Marco Giraldo (MS), Grace Wagner (culinary science & nutrition), and Magen Lord Roper (PhD)! Read more about our featured graduates here.

  May 06, 2025

  • This week's student spotlight features nutritional sciences major Macy Ball! Macy has acquired unique skills this semester shadowing Laura Frances Smith, PA-C, at Ashford Aesthetics, and she has learned valuable lessons in preventative skin care, aesthetic injecting, and the importance of strong provider-patient relationships.

  Apr 29, 2025

  • This week's student spotlight features the members of Dr. Ginnefer Cox’s Sensory Evaluation and Product Development Laboratory who worked tirelessly to complete the Lactose-Free Milk Sensory Study! After 8 weeks over 2 semesters, the students completed the project on February 21st. Pictured here are culinary science and nutrition majors Cole Bryant and Spence Cranford, PhD/DI student Renee Hutton, dietetics major Jacob Pursell, and nutritional sciences major Bethany Manders. Way to go, team! 

  Apr 22, 2025

  • This week's student spotlight features nutritional sciences major Kate Anna Baxley and her work with The Bunny Hive Athens! The Bunny Hive provides a space where little ones and their grownups engage in interactive classes that support learning and skill development. As a culinary class instructor, Kate Anna teaches essential kitchen skills like pouring, mixing, and cutting. She states, “It’s been incredibly rewarding to watch the children build confidence, enhance their coordination, and explore their creativity through cooking!

• Other News

  Oct 01, 2025

  • There are numerous ways for students to volunteer within the Georgia Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics! Submit your interest via this form, linked here. 
  • GAND is hosting a virtual event for students and professionals titled, “Fueling Forward: Growth Strategies for the Evolving RD” on November 8th from 8:30 am – 1:00 pm. Alumna Cindy Kanarek Culver is one of the presenters. Register here. 

  Sep 23, 2025

  • The Carolyn Berdanier Undergraduate Research Grants Program is accepting applications. To qualify, undergraduate students must be majoring in the Nutritional Sciences (i.e., nutritional sciences, dietetics, culinary science and nutrition, or FACS education), in their sophomore, junior, or senior year, and conducting faculty mentored research in the basic sciences. The award this year will be in the amount of $1,500 per student, and two recipients will be selected. The application submission deadline has been extended to September 26th. For more information, contact Dr. Emily Noble: Emily.noble@uga.edu. 
  • The UGA Health & Wellness Pitch Competition supports student entrepreneurs with innovative solutions in health and wellness. Participants receive targeted mentorship, skill-building workshops, and multiple opportunities to refine their pitch with feedback from faculty, alumni, and industry leaders. Visit this site for more information. Application deadline is September 30th. The competition will feature up to 6 finalists pitching for cash prizes on Monday, November 17th at Studio 225, The Student Center for Entrepreneurship. Each student business will bring their idea, business, or product for a chance to win prize money totaling $17,500. 
  • The FACS Undergraduate Research Scholarship opportunity provides both an undergraduate student and their faculty mentor $1,000 each to support the work they are doing. More information about this scholarship can be found on this webpage. The deadline to apply is September 30th. 
  • The FACS Alumni Award nominations are due September 30. We encourage you to take a moment to recognize outstanding alumni who are making a difference in their communities and professions. Click here to view categories, descriptions, and the nomination link. You can also browse through our list of past recipients for inspiration. 
  • There are numerous ways for students to volunteer within the Georgia Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. Submit your interest via this form, linked here. 

  Sep 16, 2025

  • The Carolyn Berdanier Undergraduate Research Grants Program is accepting applications. To qualify, undergraduate students must be majoring in Nutritional Sciences, in their sophomore, junior, or senior year, and conducting faculty mentored research in the basic sciences. The award this year will be in the amount of $1,500 per student, and two recipients will be selected. The application submission deadline is September 19th. For more information, contact Dr. Emily Noble: Emily.noble@uga.edu. 
  • The FACS Undergraduate Research Scholarship opportunity provides both an undergraduate student and their faculty mentor $1,000 each to support the work they are doing. More information about this scholarship can be found on this webpage. The deadline to apply is September 30th. 
  • The UGA Student Food Pantry is seeking volunteers for Fall 2025. Please consider signing up for one or multiple shifts! You can schedule around your availability and volunteer for a stocking, cleaning, or customer service shift. Shifts during the week: sign-up linked here; Monday morning stocking shifts: sign-up linked here. 
  • The FACS Alumni Award nominations are due September 30. We encourage you to take a moment to recognize outstanding alumni who are making a difference in their communities and professions. Click here to view categories, descriptions, and the nomination link. You can also browse through our list of past recipients for inspiration. 
  • Explore careers in the health professions through the Pre-Health Career Caravan on October 21st at Georgia State University (GSU). During this interactive caravan, students will have the chance to learn more about GSU’s Allied Health Programs, including: Health Informatics, Physical Therapy (PT), Occupational Therapy (OT), Respiratory Therapy (RT), Nursing (NURS), and Nutrition. This event is designed to give students a closer look at these in-demand fields, connect them with faculty and staff, and help them begin charting their pathways into the health professions. Application Link. 
  • Are you a grad student interested in obtaining real-world experience bridging nutrition science with the consumer wellness industry? Check out the Haleon 2026 Summer Intern position: Nutrition Graduate - Medical and Scientific Affairs (12 weeks, June 2026 Start) in NJ. Learn more here. 

  Sep 09, 2025

  • The Carolyn Berdanier Undergraduate Research Grants Program is accepting applications. To qualify, undergraduate students must be majoring in Nutritional Sciences, in their sophomore, junior, or senior year, and conducting faculty mentored research in the basic sciences. The award this year will be in the amount of $1,500 per student, and two recipients will be selected. The application submission deadline is September 19th. For more information, contact Dr. Emily Noble: Emily.noble@uga.edu. 
  • The FACS Undergraduate Research Scholarship opportunity provides both an undergraduate student and their faculty mentor $1,000 each to support the work they are doing. More information about this scholarship can be found on this webpage. The deadline to apply is September 30th. 
  • The FACS Alumni Award nominations are due September 30. We encourage you to take a moment to recognize outstanding alumni who are making a difference in their communities and professions. Click here to view categories, descriptions, and the nomination link. You can also browse through our list of past recipients for inspiration. 
  • DEBORAH BLUM and FRANCISCO DIEZ-GONZALE will present the Food, Power, and Politics Lecture, “What's on the Table? Food Safety in Georgia, the South, and Beyond.” September 23, 2025 | 6 p.m. UGA Special Collections Building, Room 285. Blum is a celebrated author known for her works about chemistry, toxicology and the existence of poisons in our everyday lives. Diez-Gonzalez is the director of the Center for Food Safety and a professor in the department of food science and technology at UGA. Details here. 
  • Explore careers in the health professions through the Pre-Health Career Caravan on October 21st at Georgia State University (GSU). During this interactive caravan, students will have the chance to learn more about GSU’s Allied Health Programs, including: Health Informatics, Physical Therapy (PT), Occupational Therapy (OT), Respiratory Therapy (RT), Nursing (NURS), and Nutrition. This event is designed to give students a closer look at these in-demand fields, connect them with faculty and staff, and help them begin charting their pathways into the health professions. Application Link. 
  • The Oncology Nutrition Dietetic Practice Group Research Grant program is now accepting applications! This is a great opportunity to get any students or trainees interested in cancer prevention, control, or survivorship involved in research and experience managing external grants. There are four grants available, two for students and two for professionals. See details here. 

  Aug 26, 2025

  • The Carolyn Berdanier Undergraduate Research Grants Program is accepting applications. To qualify, undergraduate students must be majoring in Nutritional Sciences, in their sophomore, junior, or senior year, and conducting faculty mentored research in the basic sciences. The award this year will be in the amount of $1,500 per student, and two recipients will be selected. The application submission deadline is September 19th, 2025. For more information, contact Dr. Emily Noble: Emily.noble@uga.edu. 
  • The Dawg Ally Training is a dynamic three-hour workshop designed for faculty, staff, and students at the University of Georgia who are eager to support LGBTQIA+ college students. If interested, sign up here. 

  Aug 19, 2025

  • Our department is seeking to hire a Graduate Coordinator Assistant to join our team of administrative staff and help with the management of applications, educating current and prospective graduate students on graduate degree programs, admission requirements, student academic progress and assistantship/award opportunities. Please share the following link with interested applicants: https://www.ugajobsearch.com/postings/443592
  • The UGA Olympic Sports Nutrition team is seeking paid student workers. Some typical tasks include supporting the team of dietitians, stocking fueling stations, and more! If you are interested in gaining hands-on sports nutrition experience, please complete the interest form, linked here. If you have questions, please reach out to Olympic Sports Dietitian Ms. Sloan Vlahos: sloanv@SPORTS.UGA.EDU.
  • NOBIDAN is hosting a mini-meet-up on Saturday, August 23rd, 2025, at 12:00 pm - 2:00 pm EST at Courtyard Cartersville, 5460 GA-20, Cartersville, GA, 30121. The NOBIDAN Meet-Up will have networking activities, food and an excellent program. The keynote speaker is Dr. LaKesha Antoinette Tables, MD, MPH, FACPM from Morehouse School of Medicine. Dr. Tables is a board-certified pediatrician and preventive medicine physician who cares for children of all ages and has a special interest in helping families manage and prevent childhood obesity. RSVP in advance clicking this link - Make sure to invite a friend or two! If you prefer attending virtually, register for the Zoom option here.
  • Join the 2025–26 Diversify Dietetics Mentor Program! Whether you’re looking for guidance as you navigate school, work, or the nutrition field — or you’re a nutrition professional ready to mentor the next generation of diverse dietitians — this year’s program is for you! From September to December, you can connect through 1:1 Mentor Matching, building deeper relationships through monthly goal-focused conversations, and/or Mentor Program Pods, monthly group sessions on topics like entrepreneurship, clinical practice, and career growth. Learn more here. Applications close August 27. Mentors: Head to this website and complete the Mentor Questionnaire; Mentees: Head to this website and fill out a Mentor Program Profile and email it to mentor@diversifydietetics.org.

  Aug 12, 2025

  • The UGA Olympic Sports Nutrition team is seeking paid student workers. Some typical tasks include supporting the team of dietitians, stocking fueling stations, and more! If you are interested in gaining hands-on sports nutrition experience, please complete the interest form, linked here. If you have questions, please reach out to Olympic Sports Dietitian Ms. Sloan Vlahos: sloanv@SPORTS.UGA.EDU.
  • The RD Mentorship Program is launching its 11th cohort, which has impacted over 10,000 past participants. How does the program work? RDs mentor current junior/senior/graduate nutrition students who are interested in a career as a dietitian. If you are interested in learning more about this program as an RD mentor or as a student mentee, please visit www.rdmentor.com.
  • The Georgia Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (GAND) is now accepting applications for its Student Member Engagement Stipend, designed to support students and dietetic interns pursuing careers in nutrition and dietetics. Eligible applicants can receive funding to cover the cost of Academy membership or registration to attend GAND’s Annual Conference and Expo (ACE). The stipend offers a valuable opportunity to connect with professionals, gain leadership experience, and strengthen your resume. Applications are due by September 5, 2025. Visit this link to apply.
  • The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation’s FNCE® Student Stipend Program helps Academy student members attend the Food & Nutrition Conference & Expo® by providing some funding to help offset their costs of attending. Academy student members are encouraged to apply after registering for FNCE®. Students must be registered for the full conference. The 2025 stipend amount is $170 (the cost of early registration). To apply, visit the Academy Foundation’s online application portal and submit application before 10 a.m. Central time on Friday, August 29. All applicants will be notified of their acceptance status in mid-to-late September. Stipends will be awarded as AMEX gift cards distributed at the Academy Foundation’s booth at FNCE®.
  • The Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics encourages Academy student members with strong leadership skills to apply for the Dietetics Student Representative position on the ACEND board. This volunteer position is an excellent way to gain leadership experience and skills in accreditation, education, communication, collaboration and more. The Dietetics Student Representative is elected by the ACEND board and serves a two-year term: the first year as student rep-elect and the second year as the dietetics student voting member. Apply here by November 1.

  Aug 05, 2025

  • We are pleased to share that we have two new faculty members who joined the department on August 1st! Dr. Josephine Shieh, Clinical Assistant Professor, has a PhD in Nutritional Sciences from the University of Georgia, a MS in Biology from Valdosta State University and a BS in Science Education from the University of Georgia. Dr. Shieh has been teaching for the department in our online MS program in Community Nutrition as a limited term lecturer since 2023. Dr. Shana Adise, Assistant Professor, earned her PhD in Nutritional Sciences from Penn State University and her BS in Psychology from the City College of New York. Dr. Adise is a nutritional neuroscientist focused on critical questions in ingestive behavior. Her work uses the combination of MRI, computational modeling and nutrition assessments to understand the relationship between weight gain, the brain and food intake during critical times in development. Welcome Drs. Shieh and Adise!
  • The UGA Olympic Sports Nutrition team is seeking paid student workers. Some typical tasks include supporting the team of dietitians, stocking fueling stations, and more! If you are interested in gaining hands-on sports nutrition experience, please complete the interest form, linked here. If you have questions, please reach out to Olympic Sports Dietitian Ms. Sloan Vlahos: sloanv@SPORTS.UGA.EDU.
  • Please share with FACS alumni you know! The College is looking to inspire current and future FACS Dawgs by spotlighting our amazing alumni. Help us show future FACS grads that a degree from our college can take them anywhere. Complete this form, and your profile will be shared on the FACS website this fall: https://www.fcs.uga.edu/alumni/alumni-profiles
  • The RD Mentorship Program is launching its 11th cohort, which has impacted over 10,000 past participants. How does the program work? RDs mentor current junior/senior/graduate nutrition students who are interested in a career as a dietitian. Student mentee applications open August 11th. If you are interested in learning more about this program, please visit www.rdmentor.com.
  • The Georgia Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (GAND) is now accepting applications for its Student Member Engagement Stipend, designed to support students and dietetic interns pursuing careers in nutrition and dietetics. Eligible applicants can receive funding to cover the cost of Academy membership or registration to attend GAND’s Annual Conference and Expo (ACE). The stipend offers a valuable opportunity to connect with professionals, gain leadership experience, and strengthen your resume. Applications are due by September 5, 2025. Visit this link to apply.
  • The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation’s FNCE® Student Stipend Program helps Academy student members attend the Food & Nutrition Conference & Expo® by providing some funding to help offset their costs of attending. Academy student members are encouraged to apply after registering for FNCE®. Students must be registered for the full conference. The 2025 stipend amount is $170 (the cost of early registration). To apply, visit the Academy Foundation’s online application portal and submit application before 10 a.m. Central time on Friday, August 29. All applicants will be notified of their acceptance status in mid-to-late September. Stipends will be awarded as AMEX gift cards distributed at the Academy Foundation’s booth at FNCE®.

  Jul 22, 2025

  • The UGA Olympic Sports Nutrition team is seeking paid student workers. Some typical tasks include supporting the team of dietitians, stocking fueling stations, and more! If you are interested in gaining hands-on sports nutrition experience, please complete the interest form, linked here. If you have questions, please reach out to Olympic Sports Dietitian Ms. Sloan Vlahos: sloanv@SPORTS.UGA.EDU.
  • Please share with FACS alumni you know! The College is looking to inspire current and future FACS Dawgs by spotlighting our amazing alumni. Help us show future FACS grads that a degree from our college can take them anywhere. Complete this form, and your profile will be shared on the FACS website this fall: https://www.fcs.uga.edu/alumni/alumni-profiles
  • NUTR alumna Julie (Dean) Spahn is sharing a new internship opportunity that her team is openly recruiting for at Nestlé USA. This position is open to both current students or recent graduates. Students can expect to jump straight into monitoring policy changes and their impact on a global food and beverage company. Topics could include changes in SNAP-ED benefits, sustainability initiatives, and state- and federal-level ingredient bans. Learn more here.
  • The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation’s FNCE® Student Stipend Program helps Academy student members attend the Food & Nutrition Conference & Expo® by providing some funding to help offset their costs of attending. Academy student members are encouraged to apply after registering for FNCE®. Students must be registered for the full conference. The 2025 stipend amount is $170 (the cost of early registration). To apply, visit the Academy Foundation’s online application portal and submit application before 10 a.m. Central time on Friday, August 29. All applicants will be notified of their acceptance status in mid-to-late September. Stipends will be awarded as AMEX gift cards distributed at the Academy Foundation’s booth at FNCE®.

  Jul 15, 2025

  • The UGA Olympic Sports Nutrition team is seeking paid student workers. Some typical tasks include supporting the team of dietitians, stocking fueling stations, and more! If you are interested in gaining hands-on sports nutrition experience, please complete the interest form, linked here. If you have questions, please reach out to Olympic Sports Dietitian Ms. Sloan Vlahos: sloanv@SPORTS.UGA.EDU.
  • Please share with FACS alumni you know! The College is looking to inspire current and future FACS Dawgs by spotlighting our amazing alumni. Help us show future FACS grads that a degree from our college can take them anywhere. Complete this form, and your profile will be shared on the FACS website this fall: https://www.fcs.uga.edu/alumni/alumni-profiles.
  • The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation’s FNCE® Student Stipend Program helps Academy student members attend the Food & Nutrition Conference & Expo® by providing some funding to help offset their costs of attending. Academy student members are encouraged to apply after registering for FNCE®. Students must be registered for the full conference. The 2025 stipend amount is $170 (the cost of early registration). To apply, visit the Academy Foundation’s online application portal and submit application before 10 a.m. Central time on Friday, August 29. All applicants will be notified of their acceptance status in mid-to-late September. Stipends will be awarded as AMEX gift cards distributed at the Academy Foundation’s booth at FNCE®.

  Jul 08, 2025

  • Are you looking for a unique way to serve our campus and community? Do you want to gain leadership and critical thinking skills? Are you interested in promoting a culture of respect at UGA? If so, consider applying for University Judiciary this fall! For information about our recruitment events, follow us on our Instagram: @ugajudiciary and sign up for the interest form now to be notified when the application opens! Interest Form: UJ Interest Form 2025
  • The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Foundation’s FNCE® Student Stipend Program helps Academy student members attend the Food & Nutrition Conference & Expo® by providing some funding to help offset their costs of attending. Academy student members are encouraged to apply after registering for FNCE®. Students must be registered for the full conference. The 2025 stipend amount is $170 (the cost of early registration). To apply, visit the Academy Foundation’s online application portal and submit application before 10 a.m. Central time on Friday, August 29. All applicants will be notified of their acceptance status in mid-to-late September. Stipends will be awarded as AMEX gift cards distributed at the Academy Foundation’s booth at FNCE®.

  Jul 01, 2025

  • CHAARG is a female-focused student organization that visits different workout studios in Athens each week (like dance classes, Pilates, yoga, weightlifting, etc.), focusing on creating a safe and welcoming workout environment. CHAARG also hosts small groups where members can hang out once per week to get dinner, go to the gym, do some crafts, and more. If interested, please join the Fall 2025 Email List.

  Jun 20, 2025

  • Please join us in giving a warm welcome to Ms. Sydney Parker, our department's new Administrative Associate! Sydney is a 2024 UGA FACS grad from Marietta, GA who earned her degree in Human Development and Family Science. Prior to joining our department, she worked in hunger relief for the YMCA/ Atlanta Community Foodbank partnership. Sydney enjoys watching hockey games in her spare time, and her favorite team is the Montreal Canadiens. We invite you to stop by the main office and say hello! A photo was shared on the NUTR Facebook page. 
  • The Georgia Dietetic Foundation (GDF) will award two scholarships to students enrolled in ACEND-accredited dietetics programs (DPD, DI, CP) in Georgia. The deadline to apply is June 30th. Access the application on the GDF website. If you have questions, email Ms. Jessica Harris, RDN, LD, CSR, Chair, Georgia Dietetic Foundation Scholarship Committee at info@supportgdf.org. 
  • CHAARG is a female-focused student organization that visits different workout studios in Athens each week (like dance classes, Pilates, yoga, weightlifting, etc.), focusing on creating a safe and welcoming workout environment. CHAARG also hosts small groups where members can hang out once per week to get dinner, go to the gym, do some crafts, and more. If interested, please join the Fall 2025 Email List. 
  • Join the 2025 Summer Drink Water, Georgia! Campaign. Receive text messages encouraging you and your family to improve your health by drinking more water. Text Water or Agua to 833-712-1267. 

  Jun 10, 2025

  • The Georgia Dietetic Foundation (GDF) will award two scholarships to students enrolled in ACEND-accredited dietetics programs (DPD, DI, CP) in Georgia. The deadline to apply is June 30th. Access the application on the GDF website. If you have questions, email Ms. Jessica Harris, RDN, LD, CSR, Chair, Georgia Dietetic Foundation Scholarship Committee at info@supportgdf.org. 
  • Join the 2025 Summer Drink Water, Georgia! Campaign. Receive text messages encouraging you and your family to improve your health by drinking more water. Text Water or Agua to 833-712-1267. 

  Jun 03, 2025

  • The Georgia Dietetic Foundation (GDF) will award two scholarships to students enrolled in ACEND-accredited dietetics programs (DPD, DI, CP) in Georgia. The deadline to apply is June 30th. Access the application on the GDF website. If you have questions, email Ms. Jessica Harris, RDN, LD, CSR, Chair, Georgia Dietetic Foundation Scholarship Committee at info@supportgdf.org. 
  • The deadline for Graduate School July-September conference travel grants is Thursday, June 5, 2025. Please refer to the website here for details. Students must apply through their academic department. 

  May 27, 2025

  • The Georgia Dietetic Foundation (GDF) will award two scholarships to students enrolled in ACEND-accredited dietetics programs (DPD, DI, CP) in Georgia. The deadline to apply is June 30th. Access the application on the GDF website. If you have questions, email Ms. Jessica Harris, RDN, LD, CSR, Chair, Georgia Dietetic Foundation Scholarship Committee at info@supportgdf.org.

  May 20, 2025

  • The Georgia Dietetic Foundation (GDF) will award two scholarships to students enrolled in ACEND-accredited dietetics programs (DPD, DI, CP) in Georgia. The deadline to apply is June 30th. Access the application on the GDF website. If you have questions, email Ms. Jessica Harris, RDN, LD, CSR, Chair, Georgia Dietetic Foundation Scholarship Committee at info@supportgdf.org. 
  • The deadline for Graduate School July-September conference travel grants is Thursday, June 5, 2025. Please refer to the website here for details. Students must apply through their academic department. 

  May 13, 2025

  • Please join us in giving a warm welcome to Ms. Monica Johnson, our new Assistant to Department Head! Monica is an Athens native whose career as an office manager spans 19 years (9 of which have been at UGA). She received her bachelor's degree in Office Administration & Technology and is currently pursuing a master's in Education-Human Resource Development. A photo was shared on the NUTR Facebook page. 
  • Les Dames d'Escoffier opened their 2025 scholarship application for women pursuing culinary or pastry arts, farming, beverage management, hospitality, or agriculture coursework. The deadline to apply is May 15th, and the application can be viewed here. 
  • The Georgia Dietetic Foundation (GDF) is announcing the scholarship application process for 2025. This year, the GDF will award two scholarships to students enrolled in ACEND-accredited dietetics programs (DPD, DI, CP) in Georgia. The deadline to apply is June 30th. Access the application on the GDF website. If you have questions, email Ms. Jessica Harris, RDN, LD, CSR, Chair, Georgia Dietetic Foundation Scholarship Committee at info@supportgdf.org. 
  • Are you a student or dietetic intern interested in becoming a sports dietitian? Check out the 1-1 Sports Nutrition Mentorship Program with Veteran Performance Dietitian, Emily Kaley. This is open to students, dietetic interns, new RDs, and more. Participants will work on resume and cover letters, interview prep, career guidance, and connecting with other RDs. For more information, please email emily.kaley@gmail.com. 

  May 06, 2025

  • The Georgia Dietetic Foundation (GDF) is announcing the scholarship application process for 2025. This year, the GDF will award two scholarships to students enrolled in ACEND-accredited dietetics programs (DPD, DI, CP) in Georgia. The deadline to apply is June 30th. Access the application on the GDF website. If you have questions, email Ms. Jessica Harris, RDN, LD, CSR, Chair, Georgia Dietetic Foundation Scholarship Committee at info@supportgdf.org. 
  • Les Dames d'Escoffier just opened their 2025 scholarship application for women pursuing culinary or pastry arts, farming, beverage management, hospitality, or agriculture coursework. The deadline to apply is May 15th, and the application can be viewed here. 
  • UGA's new Dining, Learning, & Wellness Center has broken ground. What will it offer students? View the Athens Banner-Herald article here.  

  Apr 22, 2025

  • Get paid to Test AI Models through Handshake MOVE: Handshake is recruiting exceptional masters and doctoral students, candidates, and graduates from all fields to join their AI research community. The MOVE program runs year-round, though project availability will vary by domain. More details on how to apply, here. 
  • CGS/ProQuest Distinguished Dissertation Awards 2025: The Graduate School is accepting nominations for the annual Council of Graduate Schools (CGS) and ProQuest Distinguished Dissertation Awards. This year’s two categories of competition are 1) Biological Sciences/Life Sciences and 2) Humanities and Fine Arts. Graduates (from July 2023 to May 2025) must be nominated by their departments. View more funding deadlines and opportunities offered by the Graduate School here. 

Latest News

We Are FACS: Alumni demonstrate how a FACS degree can take you anywhere

Recruitment campaign showcases the variety of career options available to FACS students

Dietetics students achieve milestone by securing postgraduate internships

Students matched with programs across the country in highly competitive process

FACS group earns Student Employee of the Year Team Award

Five-person team of dietetics students named best overall