Catalyzing Systems Change: Career Pathways in Sustainable Food Systems

RDNs and NDTRs are increasingly valued for their leadership in sustainable food systems. The concept of sustainable food systems promotes equitable access to foods that are nutritious, affordable, culturally appropriate, and supportive of environmental stewardship. RDNs and NDTRs are important change agents throughout the food system. Whether providing nutrition education, managing foodservice settings, promoting community food security, advocating for policy change, or working with food producers and other stakeholders, they can leverage their skills in collaborations that catalyze broader food systems change.

In this session, learn from leaders whose nutrition and dietetics training prepared them for careers in the food system. Drawing from their experiences in innovative food environments, municipal food policy, on-farm nutrition education, and entrepreneurship, the speakers will share their motivations, challenges, and resources to grow your career in this area.

CPE Level: Level 2
CPEU: 1.0

Performance Indicators

• 3.2.1 Advocates for, and participates in, activities that support advancement of the profession
• 3.1.3 Takes initiative to facilitate change.
• 2.2.3 Identifies opportunities for shared benefit and/or vision

Learning Objectives

• Describe examples of how nutrition and dietetics professionals can promote sustainable food systems in a variety of practice settings.
• Identify resources that students, early career practitioners, and advanced practitioners can use to develop their knowledge and skills related to sustainable food systems.
• Discuss challenges of bringing nutrition and dietetics expertise into new career pathways, as well as strategies for overcoming these challenges through training and collaboration.

Speakers

• Chavanne Hanson
• Winona Bynum
• Fallon Bader