OXFORD, Miss. – Two graduates of the University of Mississippi Department of Nutrition and Hospitality Management were honored at the 2019 Mississippi Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Annual Conference for their leadership and excellence in the field.
This annual conference, held by the state affiliate of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, provides continuing education to registered dietitians, registered dietetic technicians and students of nutrition and food service. MS-AND members in attendance also take time to celebrate the accomplishments of those making the greatest impact in their field.
“It is rewarding to see our graduates grow into contributing members of society and make an impact as leaders in their profession in the community and the state,” said Yunhee Chang, interim chair of nutrition and hospitality management. “We are extremely proud.”
Bridget Casserly was awarded the MS-AND Outstanding Dietetics Student in a Dietetic Internship Award. Casserly graduated with a bachelor’s degree in dietetics and nutrition in 2017 and is completing a master’s degree in nutrition and food systems and her dietetic internship at the University of Southern Mississippi.
Besides being a member of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, the winner of this annual award must be enrolled in ACEND-accredited dietetics education program, demonstrate academic achievement as documented by letters from program faculty or preceptors and demonstrate leadership and professional potential, such as honors, student dietetic association activities and community service.
Sarah Steinburger Busby received the MS-AND Emerging Leader Award. She graduated with a bachelor’s degree in nutrition and dietetics in 2010 and completed her master’s in nutrition and food systems and dietetic internship at USM in 2013. Since 2013, she has worked for the Pascagoula-Gautier School District, first as assistant director and now as director of the child nutrition program.
Besides being a member of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, the winner of this annual award must have 5-10 years of professional practice, along with active participation in the national, state or district association for at least five years. They must be in current professional practice and demonstrate concern for promoting optimal health and nutritional status of the population and leadership in legislation, research, education or management in the association, community or employment.
“I was so proud to be able to attend the award ceremony and hear about all the things our former students have been doing,” said Emmy Parkes, program director for the UM didactic program in dietetics. “Bridget was commended for her initiative in completing a quality improvement project in the facility where she is doing her supervised practice hours.
“Sarah’s former supervisor spoke about how her supportive and energetic attitude had contributed to a great child nutrition program in their school district. I can’t say that I was all that surprised that they had taken on these leadership roles, and I am glad that they were able to be recognized for it.”
The School of Applied Sciences, home of the Department of Nutrition and Hospitality Management, offers professional preparation programs that integrate academic study, clinical training, creative research, service-learning and community outreach, leading to the development of leaders whose professional endeavors will improve health and well-being.