The Wisconsin Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics is an organization of nutrition professionals providing expert food and nutrition services to the residents of Wisconsin. WAND is an affiliate of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, consisting of approximately 900 nutrition experts commonly known as Registered Dietitian (RD) and Dietetic Technician Registered (DTR).
MISSION
Empower members to be Wisconsin’s food and nutrition leaders.
VISION
Optimize Wisconsin’s health through food and nutrition.
OFFICE
ADDRESS
563 Carter Court, Suite B, Kimberly, WI 54136
CONTACT
920-560-5619 | wand@badgerbay.co
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MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS COMMITTEE
CHAIR/PRESIDENT-ELECT
HEATHER MASTERS, MS, RDN, CD
PRESIDENT/PAST-CHAIR
MEAGAN GIBSON, MS, RDN, CD
PAST PRESIDENT
ADRIAN LEQUE, MS, RDN, LD. FAND
STATE MEDIA REP
EMILIE WILLIAMSON, MBA, RDN
PROFESSIONAL EDUCATION PLANNING (PEP) CHAIR
ANNIE WEISS, MS, CD
PROFESSIONAL EDUCATION PLANNING (PEP) CHAIR ELECT
LORI KLOS, PHD. RD
MEMBERSHIP & DIVERSITY CHAIR
EMILY OSCHMANN, RDN, LDN, CDN
SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER
AVA GOVEK
MEMBER
JENNIFER ADAMCZYK
EMILY WALLACE
JENNIFER HANLON
STAFF
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
ERIC OSTERMANN
ASSOCIATION DIRECTOR
LIZA ROSENTHAL
OFFICE MANAGER
SANDY SHIMON
GRAPHIC DESIGNER
SKYLER WOLFF
MEAGAN GIBSON
NATHAN BUTZLAFF
CONTRIBUTORS
JORDAN RIELLY
MACY DICKMAN
ANNIE WEISS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Upcoming Events
President’s Message
WAND Bites
SAND Article
Annual Conference 2026 Information
Conference Speaker and Bios
Conference Schedule
Thank You Sponsors & Exhibitors
Spring Students of the Month
Mind Friendly Blueberry Walnut Overnight Oats
Gina Coduto
Olivia Cox
Jaya Davis
Olivia Decker
Kelsey Dresen
Angela Filippini
Ellen Finley
Kayla Fischer
Sally Gilgen
Kira Greenwood
Brooke Hopkins
Melanie Hutchings
Alison Kaurala
Olivia Lampone
Caleb Lawrenz
Rosellie Macias
Kirsi Mannisto
Delaney Marwood
Hayley Oswald
Emma Packard
Lily Rice
Molly Scalone
Cynthia Scudder
Jennifer Sherman
Katie Stein
Ashley Stephens
Wendy Teich
Sharon Tung
Sydney Wittmann
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
MESSAGE FROM OUR 2025-2026 PRESIDENT
Meagan Gibson, MS, RDN, CD President 2025-2026
Spring brings fresh energy and new opportunities, and there is so much happening within our WAND community to be excited about. To me, this season reflects the momentum of our profession: innovative, impactful, and continuously advancing to support the health and well-being of individuals and communities across Wisconsin.
In March, WAND joins the nation in celebrating National Nutrition Month, a time to highlight the vital role nutrition plays in supporting health and well-being. This year’s theme, “Discover the Power of Nutrition,” aligns closely with our mission by emphasizing how informed food choices, access to healthy options, and sustainable habits can strengthen individuals, families, and communities across Wisconsin and beyond. As nutrition professionals, we have the unique opportunity to guide, educate, and empower others to harness the benefits of nutrition every day, making a lasting impact in our workplaces, throughout various programs, and within our communities.
We also proudly recognize both RDN and NDTR Day, on March 11th and 12th! These celebrations highlight the important contributions of the nutrition professionals who bring evidence-based care, leadership, and compassion to diverse practice settings throughout our state and beyond. Whether working directly with clients, advancing public health, leading programs, or supporting operations behind the scenes, your impact is so meaningful and really makes a difference!
We also want to remind you that our 2026-2027 WAND Board elections are now open. Please take a moment to cast your vote and help us spread the word! Your participation ensures that our leadership reflects the voice and vision of our membership!
Looking ahead, we’re thrilled to invite you to the 2026 WAND Annual Conference, taking place on April 16th and 17th at The Ingleside Hotel in Pewaukee. Registration is now open, and we encourage you to join colleagues, students, and professionals for two days of excellent education, networking, and professional growth. We are very excited to welcome Shana Spence, MS, RDN, CDN, as our keynote speaker! She will inspire and challenge us to think broadly about our roles as nutrition leaders.
It is an honor to serve as your President and continue to witness the passion and dedication of our members. Thank you for all that you do to elevate our profession and improve lives across our communities.
Here’s to a season of growth and connection. I hope to see you at conference!
Meagan Gibson
Meagan Gibson
WAND BITES
Connect with Us on Social Media!
Thrilled to connect with the Wisconsin Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics here on social vvmedia! We looking forward to staying updated on the latest trends, research, and valuable resources in nutrition and dietetics. As a passionate advocate for health and wellness. We are excited to engage with a community of like-minded professionals dedicated to making a positive impact on public health. Can’t wait to learn more, share insights, and be part of the conversation!
Register Today!
Annual Conference
WAND Online Member Profile Log-in
Our staff have been working to update our records for our professional and student members. Having current and useful member information is critical to the success of our communications and membership engagement initiatives. One such update includes changes to your WAND online member profile. To make it easier for members to log in on WAND’s website, your username has been updated to your Academy ID number! Check your email for all the details and feel free to contact the office with any questions eatrightwisc@gmail.com or 920-560-5619
WAND Membership Survey for 2026
UW-STEVENS POINT SAND ARTICLE
Jordan Reilly & Macy Dickman
Co-Presidents of the Student Association of Nutrition Dietetics (SAND)
My name is Jordan Reilly, and I am one of the Co-Presidents of the Student Association of Nutrition and Dietetics (SAND) at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. I am currently a senior majoring in dietetics. After graduation, I will be attending Physician Assistant school, where I hope to combine the knowledge I’ve gained in my undergrad about nutrition with my passion for patient care to best serve those in my community.
My name is Macy Dickman, I am one of the Co-Presidents of the Student Association of Nutrition and Dietetics. This year, I am a junior majoring in Dietetics and Psychology. I am planning on graduating UW – Stevens Point before resuming at this school for my master’s program and internship for Dietetics; then later starting my master’s and PhD path in Clinical Psychology. With this, I hope to work with adolescents in inpatient facilities for specialized eating disorder treatment, so young adults can feel supported during their healing journey.
The mission of SAND is to connect students pursuing an interest in nutrition and dietetics to the community through volunteer work, practice around food, and networking events. Although the club’s mission relates to those specifically studying nutrition/dietetics, we open our doors to all majors and in the past have had participation from those in family and consumer sciences, sustainability, political science, and more!
Between both Co-Presidents, we have seen a lot of ups and downs within the club over the past few years. Back in 2022, as things were still bouncing back from the impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic, it was hard to garner student interest and keep retention throughout the year. We are
UW-STEVENS POINT SAND ARTICLE
Jordan Reilly & Macy Dickman Co-Presidents of the Student Association of Nutrition Dietetics (SAND)
happy to say that from then to now, we consistently have students coming to our meetings, engaging with alumni, and participating in volunteering activities. Last spring, we were able to continue an annual fundraiser that had been paused from 2020-2022, called Bite Sized. Bite Sized is a cooking competition where teams of students compete to make bite sized dishes relating to a chosen theme and then the guests vote on their favorite. Last spring, our theme for the fundraiser was “A Day’s Worth of Food” where each dish focused on a meal of the day (breakfast, lunch, dinner, and dessert). The event went very well and was a great time for students and guests and we hope to continue this tradition long into the future.
Looking forward, we are hoping the club will grow even more and become more involved in engaging events. We would like to continue meeting with UWStevens Point alumni to discuss different pathways for Nutrition and Dietetics students after graduation. Another plan is to continue the volunteering that gets done within the campus Cupboard, a food pantry for students run by students. By doing this, dietetics and nutrition students are engaging with others while building professional skills. Finally, we hope to increase hands-on activities such as learning recipes discussing relevant topics such as sustainability and food trends, all while forming strong connections with others.
Authored by SAND Co-Presidents – Jordan Reilly and Macy Dickman
EVENT HIGHLIGHTS
FUELING THE FUTURE
WAND 2026 Annual Conference
See you in Pewaukee!
Conference Information: April 16- 17, 2025
Location: The Ingleside Hotel, Pewaukee WI
Join over 150 nutrition and dietetics professionals in Pewaukee at WAND’s Annual Conference. Hear from a variety of speakers on topics related to this year’s theme, “Fueling the Future through Inclusion, Integrity & Impact.” In addition to great educational sessions, this years’ conference features a networking happy hour, poster gallery, exhibitors and more!
Registration Rate
• Full Conference includes all meals, conference materials, CPEUs, etc.
• WAND Member – Full Conference $225
• WAND Student Member – Full Conference $150
• Non-WAND Member - $300
Lodging
Lodging is available at The Ingleside Hotel at a special group rate of $129.00/night for a traditional room. Please call 262-547-0201 and identify that you are with WAND 2026 Annual Conference. The deadline to receive this rate is Thursday, March 19,2026, so be sure to reserve your room today!
More info on The Ingleside Hotel can be found here: The Ingleside Hotel
The Gut Microbiome in Nutrition: What We Eat, When We Eat, and Why it Matters for Host Health
Vanessa Leone, PhD, Assistant Professor of Animal Biologics and Metabolism Research
11:15 AM - 11:30 AM | Lunch Transition Break
Rotating Breakout Sessions
Attendees will attend each session
Culinary Medicine with Dr. Debra Pearson
APRIL 16-17 2 0 2 6
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM Networking lunch
12:30 - 12:45 PM
Break
12:45 PM - 1:15 PM
Rotating Sessions
1:15 PM - 1:25 PM
Break
Mindful Leadership: Thriving in NutritionPractical Tools for Resilience and Focus with Laura Rowell, MBA, RDN
The Movement Mindset: Everyday Action to Nourish and Lead with Joanna Morrissey, PhD, CPT, PAPHS, CMPC and Megan Zander
An Herbalist’s Kitchen Herbs for Stress Reduction / Herbs for Women’s Health with Heather Herdman, PhD, RN, FNI, FAAN
Meet the Speakers
Effective Communication in Nutrition
April 16 | 9:15-10:15 a.m. | Keynote | 1.0 CPEU
Shana is a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist based in Brooklyn, New York She currently works in public health for the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene, doing community nutrition lessons, and also owns her own company, The Nutrition Tea ® She describes herself as an "all foods fit" dietitian and creates a platform for open discussion on nutrition and wellness topics that are inclusive, non-diet, and weight-neutral, all with an intersectionality of social justice Not always interested in nutrition, and in the not so long ago past, she worked in the fashion industry and hated it. (The joke is: she got a B S in Fashion Merchandising get it?) She finally decided to make a change, go back to school and became involved in food policy and public health, where she currently works She also writes frequently for publications such as Self, Shape, Outside, EatingWell, and Well + Good Magazines Her debut book is titled Live Nourished: Make Peace with Food, Banish Body Shame, and Reclaim Joy Speaking engagements include Peloton, NEDA, Eating Recovery Center, The Rose Retreats, Food Fluence, Eat Well Global, and NBC She can be seen in media such as NPR, Shape Magazine, GQ, SELF Magazine, Women's Health Magazine, Outside Magazine, ABC Good Morning America, and Healthline
Panel Discussion: Stigma in Dietetics
April 16 | 10:30 -11:45 a.m. | General Session 1 | 1.25 CPEU
Annie Weiss is a Lead Clinical Dietitian for Rogers Behavioral Health, specializing in eating disorder treatment, and teaches at the college level within her field She is the co-author of Fueling on Purpose, an interactive workbook to help readers gain comfort around nutrition and with their bodies She is also the co-host of Between 2 Pastries podcast, discussing and debunking current nutrition fads Outside of work, Annie is an accomplished runner, holding the record for the women’s fastest known time on Wisconsin’s 1200-mile Ice Age Trail Annie loves to travel outside of running She has been to 6 continents and over 2 dozen countries She loves to bake, crew, and occasionally goes birding Annie started her Doctor of Clinical Nutrition in August 2025 to keep things interesting, too!
Panel Discussion: Stigma in Dietetics
April 16 | 10:30 -11:45 a.m. | General Session 1 | 1.25 CPEU
Nicole Kerneen is a Registered Dietitian, Certified Dietitian, Certified Specialist in Sports Dietetics, and a Certified Personal Trainer In her 26 years of practice, she has worked in many different settings in the dietetic field Her current practice focuses on eating disorders, GI health, hormonal health, professional, amateur, college and high school athletes Currently, she owns Way of Life Nutrition and Fitness, has a monthly blog on her website, www wayoflifenutrition com, is co-creator of the Between 2 Pastries Podcast, and is co-author to Fueling on Purpose: An Interactive Workbook to Help Shift Perspectives Around Nutrition, Movement, and Health In addition, she works with residential eating disorders at Rogers Behavioral Health
Panel Discussion: Stigma in Dietetics
April 16 | 10:30 -11:45 a.m. | General Session 1 | 1.25 CPEU
Rachel has worked as a clinical dietitian for over a decade within Waukesha County, including roles in diabetes care and education, cardiopulmonary rehab and general nutrition counseling As a Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES) for the past 11 years, Rachel engages in diabetes self-management education/training and collaborates on organization-wide policies and procedures Rachel currently works at Rogers Behavioral Health as a float dietitian (level III) across all levels of care
SHANA MINEI SPENCE MS, RDN, CDN
NICOLE KERNEEN RD, CD, CSSD
RACHEL ECKEL RDN, CD, CDCES
Panel Discussion: Stigma in Dietetics
April 16 | 10:30 -11:45 a.m. | General Session 1 | 1.25 CPEU
Disordered Eating in Athletes - Prevention, Identification, and support
Maggie Richmond is a Registered Dietitian with over a decade of experience in the field and specialties in both eating disorders and sports nutrition Maggie holds the Certified Eating Disorder Specialist and Consultant-Supervisor (CEDS-C) credential, is a Certified Sports Nutritionist (CISSN), and obtained her Masters in Applied Exercise Science-Sports Nutrition These areas of specialty and hands-on experience have provided a robust foundation in understanding the connection between physical wellbeing and nutrition Maggie serves as the Clinical Nutrition Manager for Rogers Behavioral Health, one of the nation’s leading behavioral health organizations, offering an expansive background in evidence-based care and collaboration with medical disciplines to improve client’s experience Additionally, Maggie serves the outpatient community through her private practice, Richly Nourished, LLC , assisting individuals both virtually and in-person Prior to these experiences, Maggie spent five years under the leadership of the Director of Performance Nutrition with the Green Bay Packers in the National Football League (NFL) Maggie’s nutrition philosophy centers around building an inclusive relationship with food that feeds (pun intended) a client’s emotional and physical connection to the world around them while keeping their mind and body nourished She is a Health at Every Size and Intuitive Eating advocate, believing that with compassionate guidance, we can all have a joyful relationship with food, movement, our bodies, and our overall self
Empowering Equitable Community Kidney Healthcare Through Provision on Evidence-based Resources
Annamarie Rodriguez has almost 30 years of experience in a vast array of settings surrounding chronic diseases and specifically kidney disease She owns Nutrition Directions, LLC providing dietitian/nutrition consulting services and is dedicated to serving the community to advocate for health equity to advance preventative measures and decrease the incidence and progression of chronic disease She has a Master’s in Health and Wellness Management, is a Certified Lifestyle Medicine Professional, and is a Licensed Food for Life Instructor She believes that each person is on their own personal “food journey” and the direction of nutrition care is personalized, empowering patients to sustainable life changes She looks forward to partnering with her patients on their food journey to find the direction of nutrition that is just right for them
From Clinical to Kitchen: Culinary Medicine’s Role in Helping Patient’s Achieve their Nutrition Goals
Mackenzie Burke is a registered dietitian with UW Health who currently serves as the clinical nutrition supervisor She has a masters in clinical nutrition from UW Madison, and has worked in Cardiology, Transplant, Osteoarthritis, and ALS She is also a Lifestyle Change Coach for the CDC’s Diabetes Prevention Program Mackenzie has been involved in UW Health’s teaching kitchen since 2021, and believes in an all foods fit approach to nutrition, and meeting patients where they are at Taylor Johnson, MA is a classically trained chef, food anthropologist, and sustainable food systems professional with a master's degree in food studies from The American University of Rome After more than a decade working as a chef, Taylor shifted focus to advancing equitable and resilient food systems, recognizing the power of food to shape health outcomes and community well-being Today, Taylor oversees the Culinary Medicine program at UW Health, where evidence-based nutrition is integrated with hands-on cooking education to promote healthful cooking and eating habits
From Clinical to Kitchen: Culinary Medicine’s Role in Helping Patient’s Achieve their Nutrition Goals
Taylor Johnson, MA is a classically trained chef, food anthropologist, and sustainable food systems professional with a master's degree in food studies from The American University of Rome After more than a decade working as a chef, Taylor shifted focus to advancing equitable and resilient food systems, recognizing the power of food to shape health outcomes and community wellbeing Today, Taylor oversees the Culinary Medicine program at UW Health, where evidence-based nutrition is integrated with hands-on cooking education to promote healthful cooking and eating habits
Emily Cowles is a Registered Dietitian Three years in AmeriCorps gave her experience teaching in addiction recovery, mental health and homeless spaces Her final term landed her a job as the Ashwaubenon School District Hydroponic Farm Manager where she leads the production of fresh greens for roughly 3,200 students in the district and provides on-the-job training for the high school students Emily is also the owner of Em's Kitchen Table LLC which helps people move from diagnosis back to the dinner table through non-traditional nutrition education When not working, you can find her reading a good novel or sewing some funky clothes
Fueling the Future: The Essential Role of Registered Dietitians in School Meal Programs
April 16 | 3:15 - 4:15 p.m. | General Session 2 | 1.0 CPEU
Maggie Sanna is the School Nutrition Director at Monona Grove School District, serving students across two communities in the suburbs of Madison, WI As a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist, Maggie is dedicated to fostering healthy relationships with food among young people She holds a Master of Science degree in Dietetics with a Management Concentration from Mount Mary University in Milwaukee, WI. Her career in school nutrition began at the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction, where she joined the team specifically to guide schools through the implementation of the new nutritional standards mandated by the Healthy, Hunger-Free Kids Act of 2010 Passionate about promoting excitement around healthy eating, her favorite part of the job is encouraging students to explore diverse vegetables through creative, locally sourced recipes
Fueling the Future: The Essential Role of Registered Dietitians in School Meal Programs
April 16 | 3:15 - 4:15 p.m. | General Session 2 | 1.0 CPEU
Allison’s love of local food began as a child, picking handfuls of red raspberries in her grandparents’ garden, and has grown through her experiences as a dietitian in a community hospital, a personal chef, and a farmhand volunteer, where she witnessed the power of food in fostering healthy bodies, minds, and communities As Farm to School Director at REAP Food Group, Allison works to advocate for and support every person involved in growing food to bring to the school cafeteria table. Knowing that Farm to School works best in partnership with strong school nutrition programs, REAP Food Group assists in research and advocates for local, state, and federal policies that benefit students and school nutrition programs as a whole, including Healthy School Meals for All Wisconsin, a movement to bring no-cost school meals to all K12 Wisconsin students
Fueling the Future: The Essential Role of Registered Dietitians in School Meal Programs
April 16 | 3:15 - 4:15 p.m. | General Session 2 | 1.0 CPEU
Stacy Nelson is a Registered Dietitian and passionate school nutrition advocate with 10 years of experience as a School Nutrition Director As the current President of the School Nutrition Association- Wisconsin, she is dedicated to advancing child health, expanding access to nutritious meals, and promoting the vital role of school nutrition in student success
From Peanuts to Sesame: How to Safely Introduce the Top 9 Allergenic Foods for Babies
April 17 | 8:15 a.m. - 9:15 a.m. | General Session 3 | 1.0 CPEU
Katie Ferraro, MPH, RDN is an infant feeding and baby-led weaning dietitian, speaker, and author who helps families and healthcare professionals confidently start solid foods safely In 2016, she created the original 100 FIRST FOODS™ approach to baby-led weaning and a proprietary 5-Step Feeding Framework used in professional trainings, workshops, and digital education programs Katie regularly speaks to dietitians, healthcare providers, WIC agencies, corporations, and parent audiences on evidence-based infant feeding, choking prevention, allergen introduction, and responsive feeding She teaches nutrition at the University of California San Diego Extended Studies and hosts the Baby-Led Weaning with Katie Ferraro podcast As a mom of seven, Katie brings both clinical expertise and real-world experience to every presentation
MAGGIE SANNA RD, CD
ALLISON PFAFF HARRIS MS, RDN, CD
STACY NELSON MPPD, RDN, CD
KATIE FERARRO MPH, RDN
EMILY COWLES RD, CD
From Classroom to Career: Empowering Emerging Dietetics Professionals Through High-Impact Learning
April 17| 9:15 -10:15 a.m. | General Session 4 | 1 CPEU
Stephanie Send, MS, RDN, LDN, CNSC is a registered dietitian and Clinical Assistant Professor at the University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee, where she teaches undergraduate and graduate nutrition students with a focus on clinical nutrition and chronic disease prevention and management She completed her undergraduate education at Michigan State University and her Master of Science degree and dietetic internship at Rush University Medical Center
Prior to her academic role, Stephanie worked as an advanced-level clinical dietitian at Northwestern Memorial Hospital and Rush University Medical Center and has taught and precepted graduate nutrition students at various academic medical centers Her clinical expertise includes nutrition support, critical care, and digestive health She has held several leadership roles within ASPEN and the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Stephanie is passionate about preparing future dietitians through hands-on, experiential learning that strengthens clinical reasoning and competence across diverse clinical settings
MICHELLE RIMER
MPH, MS, RDN, LDN
Fueling the Future: The Essential Role of Registered Dietitians in School Meal Programs
April 17 | 3:15 - 4:15 p.m. | General Session 4 | 1.0 CPEU
Lori Klos, PhD, RDN, is an Associate Professor and Program Director of the BS Nutritional Sciences and MPH–Nutrition and Dietetics programs at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee With more than nineteen years in academia, she specializes in building high-quality, competency-focused nutrition and dietetics programs Under her leadership, UWM introduced its first pathway to the RDN credential with the fall 2023 launch of the MPH–Nutrition and Dietetics Graduate Program (GP) Dr Klos focuses on innovative, student-centered curriculum design that integrates project-based and experiential learning to prepare competent future practitioners in nutrition and dietetics while creating sustainable instructional and financial opportunities for graduate students Her work strategically leverages learning activities across courses and programs to enhance engagement, skill development, and pre-professional growth to benefit the UWM campus community and the broader southeastern Wisconsin region
Fueling the Future: The Essential Role of Registered Dietitians in School Meal Programs
April 17 | 3:15 - 4:15 p.m. | General Session 4 | 1.0 CPEU
Michelle Rimer, MPH, MS, RDN, is an experienced educator and practitioner in public health, nutrition, and wellness She earned her BS in Dietetics from the University of Wisconsin–Madison and completed a dual MPH–MS degree and dietetic internship at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville Throughout her academic career, Michelle has held faculty positions at multiple universities, including Lenoir-Rhyne University, where she helped establish an interdisciplinary obesity prevention institute and launched the nation’s first dietetic internship focused on Childhood and Adolescent Weight Management Alongside her academic work, she has held leadership roles in corporate wellness, child nutrition, and public health Michelle is passionate about community-engaged teaching and uses service-learning to equip students with real-world skills in nutrition and public health practice
Overlooked: Addressing Malnutrition in People with Overweight and Obesity
April 17 | 10:15 a.m. - 9:15 a.m. | General Session 5 | 1.0 CPEU
Jillian Hyttenhove, MA, RD, CSOWM, LD, CHES is a Medical Affairs & External Engagement Liaison within Medical Affairs & Research at Abbott She brings a diverse background in nutrition and health, having worked across multiple areas including corporate wellness for national and global organizations, weight management, clinical trials, and oncology Jillian earned her Bachelor’s degree in Dietetics from Bowling Green State University and completed both her Dietetic Internship and Master’s degree in Health Education at East Carolina University She is also board certified in obesity and weight management, along with board certified in health education
LORI KLOS PHD, RDN
JILLIAN HYTTENHOVE MA, RD, CSOWM, LD, CHES
STEPHANIE SEND MS, RDN, LDN, CNSC
Rebuilding the Family Table
April 17| 11:45 -12:30 p.m. | General Session 6 | 0.75 CPEU
Meghan Daw Sedivy, RD, LDN, is a registered dietitian, media expert, and founder of The Divorced Dietitian She previously spent eight years as a retail dietitian leading innovative wellness programs, building community partnerships, and bringing practical nutrition education to life Today, Meghan combines her media savvy with real-life experience to empower divorced women and single moms to rebuild their health after heartbreak. Through approachable wellness content, national media features, and brand partnerships, she makes it easier to eat well, feel better, and start fresh one bite, one step, one day at a time
A HAES Approach to Compassionate & Inclusive Care for Everybody
April 17 | 12:30 - 1:30 p.m. | General Session 7 | 1.0 CPEU
Bethany has worked as a clinical dietitian for the past 2 years with prior 6 years experience in food service and community settings She has a passion for helping others get back to living their values and she recently founded Root to Rise Nutrition Counseling to do just that In her free time, she enjoys spending time with husband and toddler and baking sourdough goodies Bethany currently works at Rogers Behavioral Health as a float dietitian
MEGHAN DAW SEDIVY RD, LDN
BETHANY WAALA RD, CD
At-a-glance Schedule
Thursday, april 16
7:00 - 10:00am
8:00 am - 5:00 pm
8:00 - 9:00 am
9:00 am
9:15 - 10:15 am
10:15 - 10:30 am
10:30 - 11:45 am
11:45 am - 12:45 pm
12:45 - 1:45 pm
12:45 - 1:45 pm
1:45 - 2:00 pm
2:00 - 2:45 pm
2:00 - 2:45 pm
2:45 - 3:15pm
3:15 - 4:15 pm
4:15 - 5:15 pm
5:30 - 7:00 pm
Exhibitor Set-Up / Poster Set-Up
Registration
Breakfast
Welcome Remarks
Keynote: Effective Communication in Nutrition
Shana Minei Spence, MS, RDN, CDN
Poster & Exhibit Hall Viewing
General Session 1 - Panel Discussion: Stigma in Dietetics
General Session 6 - Overlooked: Addressing Malnutrition in People with Overweight and Obesity
Jillian Hyttenhove, MA, RD, CSOWM, LD, CHES
Lunch
General Session 7 - Rebuilding the Family Table
Meghan Daw Sedivy, RD, LDN
General Session 8 - A HAES Approach to Compassionate & Inclusive Care for Everybody
Bethany Waala, RD, CD
Closing Remarks
EVENT
THANK YOU
UPDATES Wisconsin
SPONSORS & EXHIBITORS
WAND 2026 Annual Conference
Thank you to all of our sponsors and exhibitors!
SPRING STUDENTS OF THE MONTH
Students who have gone above and beyond in nutrition Students are Nominated by Peers/Mentors
April
May
Daniela Reyes-Castro Milwaukee Area Technical College
Daniela is part of the Nutrition & Dietetic Technical Program at Milwaukee Area Technical College. Daniela came to the program with all of her didactic work completed out of the country. Daniela brings a wealth of knowledge. She shares resources with her classmates and instructors to improve overall quality of the learning experience. She possesses perseverance and diligence with her schoolwork. She has high expectations of herself and strives to elevate the work of those around her.
Ken Bland University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
Ken Bland, a first-year MPH- Nutrition & Dietetics graduate student, for the Wisconsin Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Student of the Month Award. Ken exemplifies the qualities of an outstanding emerging dietetics professional through his leadership, adaptability, and commitment to student learning and service.
Ken was instrumental in launching Cooking for College: Beyond Ramen, a new experiential nutrition education course designed to build practical cooking skills, confidence, and food literacy among college students. As the first graduate student to teach this course, Ken played a critical role in bringing the program from concept to implementation. He helped work through logistical challenges, curriculum adjustments, and real-time problem-solving that naturally arise when a new course is introduced.
What stood out most during this process was Ken’s calm, steady demeanor, even amid uncertainty. He consistently maintained a positive attitude, approached challenges thoughtfully, and implemented creative, student-centered solutions. It truly took someone with Ken’s professionalism, patience, and adaptability to successfully get this course off the ground.
Following the initial offering, Ken went on to mentor two additional graduate students who later taught the course, generously sharing his insights, strategies, and lessons learned. His willingness to support peers and contribute to the growth of others speaks strongly to his leadership potential and collaborative spirit.
Beyond this project, Ken is a model graduate student. He is thoughtful, engaged, resourceful, and always willing to help. He relates exceptionally well to others, particularly students, and participants in Cooking for College consistently respond positively to his approachable teaching style and genuine investment in their success.
Ken represents the future of the dietetics profession with integrity and excellence. His contributions
MIND-FRIENDLY BLUEBERRY-WALNUT OVERNIGHT OATS
MIND-Friendly Blueberry–Walnut Overnight Oats
Annie Weiss, MS, RD, CD 2025-2026 Professional Education Chair
Designed with older adults in mind, this recipe is easy to prep, easy to chew/modify, and built from common pantry staples to support dignity, independence, and equitable access to nutrition.
Ingredients (Portion: 1 serving)
• ½ cup rolled oats
• ½ cup 1% milk (or milk alternative)
• ½ cup plain nonfat Greek yogurt
• ½ cup blueberries (fresh or frozen)
• 1 Tbsp chia seeds
• 2 Tbsp chopped walnuts
• ½ tsp cinnamon
• Optional: 1 tsp honey, maple syrup, or vanilla extract
Directions
1. In a bowl or jar, combine rolled oats, chia seeds, and cinnamon.
2. Add milk, Greek yogurt, and optional honey, maple syrup, or vanilla extract.
3. Stir until the mixture is smooth and well combined.
4. Gently fold in blueberries, reserving a few to sprinkle on top for garnish if desired.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight, until the oats have softened and the mixture has thickened.
6. Just before serving, top with the chopped walnuts to keep them crunchy.
7. Serve chilled, or warm in the microwave for 20–40 seconds if preferred.
Texture & Serving Options
1. Serve in a clear container and top with blueberries for an easy to eat presentation.
2. For a softer crunch, finely chop walnuts or use walnut butter to top.
3. For a smoother texture, use additional milk to create a drinkable consistency.
Nutrition Profile Per Serving*1,2
Macronutrients
Minerals & Vitamins
d on USDA FoodData Central; actual values vary by brand and measure
1. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service. FoodData Central. Accessed January 29, 2026. https://fdc.nal.usda.gov/ 2. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. How to Understand and Use the Nutrition Facts Label. Updated March 5, 2024. Accessed Ja nuary 29, understand-and-use-nutrition-facts-label
* Values are approximate on based on USDA FoodData Central; actual values vary by brand and measure
1. U.S. Department of Agriculture, Agricultural Research Service. FoodData Central. Accessed January 29, 2026. https://fdc.na l.usda.gov/ 2. U.S. Food and Drug Administration. How to Understand and Use the Nutrition Facts Label. Updated March 5, 2024. Accessed Ja nuary 29, 2026. https://www.fda.gov/food/nutrition facts label/how understand and use nutrition facts label
WAND 2026-2027
BALLOT OPEN
WAND 2026-2027 Ballot is Now Open!
WAND 2026-2027 Board
It’s time to cast your vote for the 2026-2027 WAND election! WAND has a great variety of candidates. Voting opens March 23rd and will continue through May 4th! Don’t miss out and cast your vote.
Candidates
President Elect Candidate
Dana is currently an assistant professor at Mount Mary University
Personal Statement: I bring strong communication skills and years of experience as a dietitian and educator, making me well suited for the role of WAND President-Elect I value critical thinking and enjoy helping students grow into future leaders in dietetics As a practitioner, I provide evidencebased, compassionate care that helps clients thrive I am committed to maintaining a welcoming, supportive community that inspires members to continue to lead and advance Wisconsin’s health through food and nutrition
Delegate to the Academy Candidate
Michelle is a Clinical Assistant Professor at the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee She teaches undergraduate and graduate courses across nutrition, dietetics, counseling, food system management, and emerging issues She also mentors MPH-RDN students and dietetic interns
Personal Statement: I am passionate about elevating the voice of Wisconsin dietitians across practice settings and supporting policies that strengthen education pathways, licensure, and public trust in our profession Having previously served as a Delegate to the Academy in North Carolina, I understand the importance of listening to members, elevating emerging issues, and translating dialogue into action As an educator and mentor of future RDs, I am committed to policies that position dietitians as trusted nutrition experts and strengthen our profession statewide and nationally
Professional Education Chair-Elect Candidate
Susan currently works as a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist with Compass Group - Morrison Healthcare; HSHS St Vincent’s Green Bay, WI
Personal Statement: I’d use my creativity, organizational, and leadership skills to assist in the administrative, fiscal, and meeting responsibilities required by this position I’d also collect feedback on the events throughout the year for improvements to provide to the next representative I’d help members achieve professional success by encouraging them to participate in the events that WAND offers Additionally, I would encourage members to participate in advocacy by using the Academy’s Action Alerts by writing to lawmakers
State Regulatory Specialist Candidate
Catherine currently works as a Clinical Inpatient Dietitian at Froedtert Hospital
Personal Statement: Hello, I’m a part-time dietitian and part-time professional mom After spending four years in California, I’m excited to be back in WI and participating in WAND again I’ve served several roles in past years and recently represented WAND at the Dietitian Legislative Summit in Washington DC to help enact the licensure compact in our state, which we successfully did last year! I’d be honored to continue serving the organization in a new but familiar role
SUSAN THOMA MCN, RDN, CD
DANA SCHEUNEMANN PHD, MS, RD, CR
WAND 2026-2027
BALLOT OPEN
WAND 2026-2027 Ballot is Now Open!
It’s time to cast your vote for the 2026-2027 WAND election! WAND has a great variety of candidates. Voting opens March 23rd and will continue through May 4th! Don’t miss out and cast your vote.
State Media Representative Candidate
Haley currently serves as a Registered Dietitian and Social Media Marketer at MadCity Psychology Home of the Eating Disorder Support Network
Personal Statement: My skillset includes humor, compassion, creativity, confident camera presence, making a message attractive to any audience, critical research, writing, inviting feedback and collaboration, making others feel safe and comfortable, AI integration (not replacement) and networking These abilities align with the goal of WAND to position dietitians as trusted nutrition experts in the public eye Everyone is turning to screens for nutrition advice, I want to be on that screen steering them in the right direction
State Media Representative Candidate
Jill currently serves as the associate director of Brand Marketing, at Johnson Health Tech
Personal Statement: As State Media Representative, I would bring strong expertise in media engagement, evidence-based communication, and nutrition storytelling As a Registered Dietitian, children’s book author, and experienced spokesperson, I have worked with media outlets to promote my book and have spoken internationally on nutrition and wellness topics I am committed to advancing the Wisconsin Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics’ mission by elevating the visibility of RDNs, delivering timely, credible nutrition messages, and strengthening public trust through effective media relations
Northeastern Region Representative Candidate
Angie serves as a Registered Dietitian at Children’s Wisconsin since completing her internship in 2002
Personal Statement: I am known for my integrity, teamwork, and passion for nutrition I am committed to bringing these values to the role of Northeastern Region Representative If elected, my primary goals are to get to know and help build connection among WAND members in the northeast through opportunities for education, events, and activities, and to be the voice for members in our region as part of the WAND board Thank you for your consideration!
Southeastern Region Representative Candidate
Abby currently is the Owner and Sports Dietitian for Midwest Performance Nutrition LLC She is also a Consulting Sports Dietitian and Adjunct Professor at Carthage College and Olivet Nazarene University
Personal Statement: As a sports dietitian, educator, and practice owner, I am seeking this role to support connection, leadership, and growth within WAND My experience spans across entrepreneurship, collegiate athletics, telehealth, and eating disorder care, allowing me to lead diverse groups with empathy and organization Through teaching and consulting roles, I have developed strong skills in collaboration, education, and project management I am passionate about creating engaging, relevant opportunities that reflect member needs and advance our profession
HALEY JENSEN MS, RDN
ANGIE EDLEBECK MS, RD, CSP, CD
JILL WOODWARD MS, RDN, CD
ABBY OLCOTT MS, RD, CSSD, CDN
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STATE POLICY NEWS
Nathan Butzlaff
WAND Legislative Update from Hoven Consulting
Governor Evers Signs Medicaid Postpartum Extension Bill
On March 18, Governor Tony Evers signed Senate Bill 23 into law. This legislation extends Medicaid post-partum coverage to mothers to one year after the birth of a child. Under prior state law, Medicaid coverage for low-income mothers was limited to the first 60 days after the birth of a child. More specifically, this new law requires the state Department of Health Services to request approval from the federal Department of Health and Human Services to extend such coverage to one year after the birth of a child.
Senate Bill 23 passed the Assembly in late February by a vote of 95-1. It passed the Senate on April 22, 2025, by a vote of 32-1. This legislation was one of WAND’s top policy priorities for the 20252026 legislative session.
On February 20, the interstate Dietitians Compact Commission held a meeting during which they elected several individuals to commission positions. Specifically, they elected the following individuals:
• Elizabeth Sheehan from Alabama – Secretary
• Christine Emerson from Montana – Treasurer
• Laura Monick from Ohio – Rules Committee Chair
The following individuals were elected to other commission positions previously:
• Brooke Frederickson from North Dakota – Chair
• Margaret Hansen from South Dakota – Vice Chair
• Julia Berman from Rhode Island – Member-at-Large
• Lexie Stoneking from Iowa - Member-at-Large
During the Compact Commission’s executive committee meeting, they approved the data system request for proposals (RFP) to be submitted to vendors. The Compact Commission’s data system is the “heart” of the commission, as it allows each compact member state to exchange data regarding credentialed dietitians who are allowed to work in other compact member states. Further updates about this process will be included in future editions of this publication.
State Legislature Session Update
On March 17, the Wisconsin State Senate completed its final session day for the 2025-2026 regular legislative session, with the state Assembly concluding its final session day on February 20. While the regular 2025-2026 legislative session has concluded, there is always the possibility that the Assembly and Senate could reconvene for a special session (called by the Governor) or an extraordinary session (called by the Legislature itself) to address a major topic (e.g., a tax cut and/or school spending plan in response to the $2.5 billion state surplus).
STATE POLICY NEWS CONT.
Nathan Butzlaff
WAND Legislative Update from Hoven Consulting
During the March 17 Senate session day, the Senate approved the following bill that is likely of interest to WAND:
Assembly Bill 180 (Requiring the Department of Health Services to seek any necessary waiver to prohibit the purchase of candy or soft drinks with FoodShare/SNAP/Food Stamp benefits)
• AB180 passed the Assembly on Friday, February 19 by a vote of 71-22. As amended, the bill also includes more funding to help prevent fraud in the FoodShare program (in response to a 2025 federal law), which was requested by the Governor.
• AB180 passed the Senate on March 17 by a vote of 25-8.
• This bill will now go to the Governor for his consideration.
During the Assembly’s final session day in late February, that chamber approved the following legislation, which the Senate did not consider prior to adjournment. Therefore, the following bill is “dead” for the current 2025-2026 regular legislative session:
STATE POLICY NEWS CONT.
Nathan Butzlaff WAND Legislative Update from Hoven Consulting
Assembly Bill 664 (relating to: serving margarine as a substitute for butter in certain circumstances)
• Under existing state law, it is generally prohibited to serve margarine as a substitute for “table butter” to students, patients, or inmates of a state institution. (“Table butter” is not defined in state law.) There are also limitations on serving colored margarine at restaurants, unless requested by the customer.
• The bill removes references in state law to “table butter” and just references “butter.”
• Also, the bill also modifies the prohibition on serving margarine as a substitute for butter to students by expanding the prohibition to apply to students at public, private, and tribal schools, but also creates an exception for margarine that is ordered by the student or for the student by the student’s parent or guardian. In addition, the bill prohibits the use of margarine as a substitute for butter in meals prepared for service to students at public, private, and tribal schools, except when necessary for the health of a specific student as directed by the student’s health care provider.
Marquette Law School Poll Released
On February 25, 2026, Marquette University Law School Poll released its most recent poll, which surveyed 818 registered Wisconsin voters between February 11-19, 2026. The margin of error is +/-4.3 percentage points. This poll is the first Wisconsin state-specific Marquette poll since October 2025. This new poll covers political approval ratings, 2026 candidates, as well as various policy areas.
The following February 2026 poll findings may be of interest:
Elected Officials
President Trump Job Approval
• 44% approve of the job President Trump (R) is doing.
• 54% disapprove.
• 2% don’t know.
Governor Tony Evers Job Approval
• 49% approve of the job Governor Tony Evers (D) is doing.
• 45% disapprove.
• 6% don’t know.
Wisconsin Legislature Job Approval
• 41% approve of the state legislature’s job performance.
• 44% disapprove.
• 15% don’t know.
Nathan Butzlaff WAND Legislative Update from Hoven Consulting STATE
STATE POLICY NEWS CONT.
Wisconsin Gubernatorial Candidates – 2026 August Primary Election
The following are the polling results of Wisconsin Republican primary voters when asked for whom they would vote:
• Congressman Tom Tiffany: 35%
• Medical Service Technician Andy Manske: 2%
NOTE: 63 percent of Republican primary voters indicated that they have not made up their minds on a preferred candidate for governor.
The following are the polling results of Wisconsin Democratic primary voters when asked for whom they would vote:
• State Rep. Francesca Hong (Madison): 11%
• Former Lieutenant Governor Mandela Barnes: 10%
• Lieutenant Governor Sara Rodriguez: 6%
• Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley: 3%
• Former Non-Profit Executive Joel Brennan: 2%
• Former Wisconsin Economic Development Corp. CEO Missy Hughes: 2%
• State Sen. Kelda Roys (Madison): 1%
• Former State Rep. Brett Hulsey (Madison Suburbs): 1%
v 65 percent of Democratic primary voters indicated that they have not made up their minds on a preferred candidate for governor.
Wisconsin Supreme Court Candidates – 2026 Spring Election
The following are the polling results of Wisconsin registered voters when asked for whom they would vote in the April State Supreme Court election:
• Waukesha-Based State Appeals Court Judge Maria Lazar (Conservative Candidate): 12%
• Madison-Based State Appeals Court Judge Chris Taylor (Liberal Candidate): 17%
NOTE: 66% of Wisconsin registered voters indicated that they have not made up their minds on a preferred candidate for the state Supreme Court.
STATE POLICY NEWS CONT.
Nathan Butzlaff
WAND Legislative Update from Hoven Consulting
General Issues
The most important issue among registered voters: • Inflation and the cost of living: 34%
• Health insurance:
• Illegal immigration and border security:
• Jobs and the economy:
• Affordability of housing:
• Crime in your community:
Wisconsin Political Update
[NOTE: Elected officials and candidates referenced in the following political update were selected to reflect information of general interest to WAND members. The inclusion of any particular individual does not in any way reflect the views of WAND, Hoven Consulting, Badger Bay Management Company or its employees or representatives.]
On February 19, Assembly Speaker Robin Vos (R-Western Racine County) announced that he will not run for re-election this year. He is the longest-serving Assembly Speaker in Wisconsin history, serving in that role since 2013. He was first elected to the Assembly in 2004. Assembly Majority Leader Tyler August (R-Lake Geneva Area) is widely expected to be the next Assembly Speaker, if the GOP maintains control of that chamber.
Senate Majority Leader Devin LeMahieu (R-Oostburg) announced on March 19 that he will not run for re-election in 2026. He represents a Senate district that includes Sheboygan and Manitowoc. He has served as Senate Majority Leader since 2021 and was first elected to the state Senate in 2014.
In mid-March, state Senator Van Wanggaard (R-Racine) has indicated that he will not run for reelection this year. He was first elected in 2010, lost a recall election in 2012, was elected again in 2014, and has been re-elected since. The boundaries of his state Senate district have changed significantly during redistricting that took place in 2024. This district is now a “swing” district and is considered to be one of the state Senate districts that Democrats have targeted in this year’s elections. As this is written, the only declared candidate is Democrat Trevor Jung, who is a former City of Racine Alder and is the current Director of Transit and Mobility for the city.
Earlier this year, state Senators Rob Hutton (R-Brookfield) and Steve Nass (R-Whitewater) both announced that they would not run for re-election this year. Hutton represented this suburban Milwaukee seat for one four-year term and served in the state Assembly previously. Senator Nass started his service in the state Legislature in 1991, as a member of the state Assembly.
WAND Legislative Update from Hoven Consulting STATE
STATE POLICY NEWS CONT.
Nathan Butzlaff
On March 19, two Assembly Republicans announced they will not run for re-election in 2026:
• Rep. Kevin Petersen (R-Waupaca), who serves as Speaker Pro Tempore and has previously served as Assistant Majority Leader. He was first elected to the state Assembly in 2006.
• Rep. Rick Gundrum (R-Slinger), who served as the chair of the Assembly Committee on Jobs and the Economy and was also a member of the Assembly Committee on Health. He was first elected to the Assembly in 2018.
Over the last month, several Democrats have announced their respective candidacies against several incumbent Democratic members of the state Assembly from Milwaukee:
• Most recently, Milwaukee Public School Board Member Mimi Reza announced that she will run against Rep. Priscilla Prado (D-Milwaukee South Side) in the Democratic primary in August.
• Earlier in March, former Madison Alder and Milwaukee small business owner Bridget Maniaci announced she will run against Rep. Ryan Clancy (D-Milwaukee East Side & Bay View Neighborhoods) in the Democratic primary.
• Several weeks ago, non-profit employee and community activist Ismael Luna announced that he will run against Rep. Sylvia Ortiz-Velez (D-Milwaukee South Side) in the Democratic primary.
On March 9, State Supreme Court Justice Annette Ziegler, a conservative, announced that she will not run for a third 10-year term in 2027. She first won election to the state Supreme Court in 2007 and previously served as a Washington County judge, a prosecutor and an attorney in private practice. No individuals have announced that they will run for this position. However, such announcements could occur after this year’s spring election on April 7.
CONSIDER DONATING TO WAND
WANDPAC continues to work improve the impact that we can make in the WAND Community
WANDPAC collects voluntary contributions from members into a single account and distributes those contributions - under the directions of a governing board - to candidates for elective state office. Outside of administrative costs, the PAC Program is funded entirely through member contributions.
We look forward to building our assests to be able contribute in teh future to legislators who have and will continue to support our nutrition policies. See below for more details on what we’ve been able to accomplish with our WANDPAC dollars - and plan to donate today!
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• Log In
• Under “Invoicing, Payment & History” Click on “Donations”
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