At the Nevada Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics' Annual Conference in March, Assistant Professor David St-Jules, a national leader in renal disease with the University's College of Agriculture, Biotechnology & Natural Resources, was recognized as the Nevada Outstanding Dietitian of the Year. The award acknowledges St-Jules' distinguished contributions to his field, as well as his excellence and leadership in service, scholarship and the promotion of Nevadans' nutritional well-being.

"David's research aims to help establish science-based nutrition guidelines for people with chronic kidney disease," Nutrition Department Chair Jamie Benedict said. "His work centers around managing the disease with diet. Given the increasing number of people worldwide who are at risk for kidney disease, the potential impact of his research is astounding."

St-Jules' research has shown that the traditional recommendation for dialysis patients to avoid eating plants that are high in potassium is not science-based. It may harm patients. The article St-Jules wrote on this continues to be the highest-impact piece in the Journal of Renal Nutrition since it was published in 2016.

Additionally, St-Jules mentors future nutrition and dietetic scholars, and is active in Nevada communities. He delivers research-based programs designed to support residents in leading healthier lives, including free workshops for nutrition and dietetic professionals.

Deborah Joakimson, an alum of the College's undergraduate and graduate nutrition programs and current faculty of the College, was selected as the Nevada Recognized Dietetic Technician of the Year. The distinction recognizes her enthusiasm for and success in promoting nutritional health among Nevadans, including through the College's Rethink Your Drink Nevada Program.

Nutrition student Shauna Tavcar was honored with the Nevada Outstanding Dietetic Student of the Year award, a tribute to her academic achievement, leadership and professional potential.

In addition to being recognized at the conference, St-Jules, Joakimson and Tavcar will be featured in the Academy's journal, and received a plaque, letter and certificate from the Academy.

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, founded in 1951, is an affiliate of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. It is the professional organization for experts in food and nutrition, and works to empower leaders and optimize the health of Nevadans.

To learn more about the Academy’s University honorees for 2022, visit the Department of Nutrition's news webpage.