Ashlee Linares-Gaffer, MS, RDN; Kathryn Lawson, MS, RDN; Haley Hickman, MS, RD

In an ideal world, the profession of dietetics would increase in diversity substantially, particularly on the basis of gender, race and ethnicity. We would have dietetics professionals available to serve and relate to all American residents, and to lead nutrition-focused businesses that meet the needs of consumers. The healthcare industry would acknowledge the value that dietitians play in healthcare in every state; dietitians would be eligible for reimbursement for a robust list of disease prevention and management services and dietitians would be able to write diet and nutrition-related orders in all clinical facilities.

Diana Reid, MPH, RD

I have a pretty non-traditional career path, as I started out in another field altogether and changed careers in my 40s. I think being a second career dietitian has made me very savvy in terms of business and entrepreneurship and knowing how to present and market myself. I also have a strong sense of who I am and what I have to offer. After graduate school, I worked as a dietitian in a community health center and was quickly promoted to lead the entire staff of dietitians across the organization. I don’t think this would have happened without my previous experience in management and leadership from my prior career.

interviews