Vote February 1 through March 3

 

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Contributions and Leadership Achievements.
 
Organization Position Term
California Dietetic Association President 2008-2009
California Dietetic Association Foundation President 2006-2007
Commission on Accreditation for Dietetic Education Chair 1997-1998
Commission on Accreditation for Dietetic Education Program Reviewer 1990-present
If elected, what are your plans for office?

I believe that as professionals, we are accountable for our actions in the public arena. This philosophy correlates well with CDR's responsibility to serve the public. My background in accreditation has provided me with a strong foundation working with standards for the education of future dietitians. As a member of CDR, I will continue to uphold the standards for professional conduct that help to guide us in serving and protecting the public.

Give an example of how you successfully led a team to accomplish an objective/goal.

During my term as President-Elect of CDA, I conducted our strategic planning process. Keeping a state executive board on task is a challenging one. Making sure that not only are all participants heard, but all have the opportunity to participate and contribute to the common goal of deciding direction for the next year takes skill and patience. I am very good at keeping all actively engaged, on target and am able to allow the group to reach consensus on important issues. Interesting, our new mission and strategic plan, completed before the new ADA mission and strategic plan was released, was almost verbatim to what ADA presented. We felt, therefore, that we were very attuned to the mission and goals of ADA.

Describe your most fulfilling leadership experience.

My most fulfilling experience has been as President of the California Dietetic Association. During this year (and my year as President-Elect), I had the opportunity to meet and work with individuals from around the state, strengthening my views that we have a diverse, committed membership. Participating in district visits and helping the membership understand that they are part of the larger association was exciting. In addition, I had the opportunity to represent ADA at a hearing for the reauthorization of the Child Nutrition Act as well as at one of the Health Care Reform Forums. These activities, and more, made my year as CDA President memorable.

Identify 3 of your strengths/skills that make you an ideal candidate.

I am non-judgmental when it comes to issues and therefore I can see all sides during a discussion. This allows me to make informed decisions, without enforcing my personal bias in a situation. I am a good communicator, believing that information gathering and sharing is important in any given situation. I can, depending of the situation, be either a good leader or a good support person. This ability to work well with others has been an asset in developing and maintaining a Dietetic Internship in these days of shrinking resources.