Registered Dietitian Nutritionist
Nutrition & Dietetics Leadership Award, Marsha Read Leadership Award in Nutrition & Dietetics
The Nutrition & Dietetics Leadership Award honors professionals who, through their vision, influence and persistence, create change that positively impacts the nutritional health of Nevadans.
We are pleased to announce that the recipient of the Marsha Read Leadership Award in Nutrition & Dietetics for 2021 is Joe Dibble, R.D.N, L.D. Joe Dibble has held numerous leadership roles as a young professional, including the statewide nutrition coordinator for Nevada’s Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (referred to as WIC), and his current position as the school nutrition supervisor for the Nevada Department of Agriculture. Previously, he was also a dietitian with the Yerington Paiute Tribe Health Clinic, operated his own business as a sports dietitian and strength coach, and was a project dietitian with the University of Nevada, Reno Extension. True to his goal of “being in a position to have the largest influence and impact,-” thousands more of Nevada’s children now benefit from federal nutrition programs, such as the National School Breakfast and Lunch Programs. This was accomplished by increasing program sponsorship in Nevada by over 20%, and reducing barriers to participation by increasing the ability for schools to both qualify then elect, by 140%, federal provisions to serve all their enrolled students free nutritious school meals. Most recently, during unprecedented school closures due to the COVID pandemic, Joe and his team provided leadership and support to Nevada’s district and charter schools so they could successfully continue to provide healthful meals to children in communities while learning from home. “Joe is truly one of the most influential nutritional professionals in the state of Nevada. There is no doubt that Nevada’s children are more healthy today thanks to his integrity, perseverance, and innovative spirit,” according to Jamie Benedict, chair of the College's nutrition department. “He is an outstanding role model for future nutrition and dietetic professionals.” This award was named after Dr. Marsha Read, who assumed multiple leadership roles during her 45 years of service to the University. When Read retired from the University, she was serving as vice provost for graduate education and dean of the Graduate School.