Slate of Candidates for 2026-2027!
The Nutrition Entrepreneurs Dietetic Practice Group (NE DPG) is pleased to present the slate of candidates for office for the 2026-2027 year:
Chair-elect:
Aubrey Redd, MS, RDN, LDN
Secretary:
Shannon McMahon, MS, RD, LD
Heather Rudalavage, RDN, LDN
House of Delegates NE DPG Delegate:
Kimberly Marsh, MS, RD, LD
Nominating Committee:
Sarah Bixby, MS, RDN, LDN
Kristi Coughlin, MS, RDN
Jasmine Hormati, MS, RD, CDN
We have an incredible slate of candidates, please read on for their statements on why they would be the best candidate for the position. National and DPG/MIG elections will be open January 20–27, and Project Vote is returning. One individual from the winning DPGs in each of the four categories will receive a complimentary Academy membership!
-
Aubrey: “As Director of Member Services for NE DPG, I have had the opportunity to listen closely to our members, understand their needs, and help translate those needs into meaningful programs and resources. This role has strengthened my ability to collaborate across leadership, think strategically about member engagement, and support initiatives that advance both our mission and our members’ professional growth. As Chair Elect, I would bring continuity, a strong member-centered perspective, and a commitment to thoughtful, inclusive leadership that supports the long-term success of NE DPG.”
-
Shannon: “I’ve really enjoyed serving as Director of Communications for the past 2½ years, and I’m excited about the chance to bring that experience to a new role on the NE Executive Committee. This position has helped me build skills that fit perfectly with the responsibilities of Secretary. I bring strong communication, organization, and problem-solving skills, which have been essential in collaborating with multiple subcommittees, staying up to date on their activities, and fostering teamwork across groups. I’ve also taken and shared minutes for our monthly Communications Team meetings, ensuring everything is documented and followed through.I’m confident that these skills, along with my attention to detail and commitment to teamwork, will make me a strong Secretary. Thank you for considering my application—I’d love the opportunity to keep contributing to NE in this new capacity!"
-
Heather: “I bring to this role a strong combination of organization, attention to detail, and clear communication—along with a creative spirit and genuine passion for supporting entrepreneurs at every stage of their journey. For nearly 15 years, I have been deeply engaged with the NE DPG and continue to be inspired by its board and members. Serving as CPE Coordinator strengthened my appreciation for the group’s collective expertise and allowed me to collaborate closely with the executive committee. I would be honored to serve as Secretary for the upcoming term.”
-
Kimberly: “I completed my Masters in Clinical Nutrition and internship at Rush University in Chicago, Illinois. I have been an independent contractor in senior living for ten years and a private practice owner for five. I have also had the privilege of working with the Nutrition Entrepreneurs Executive Committee for the last three years. I have loved getting to know many amazing entrepreneur dietitians - to learn about the important work they are doing and also the struggles they have. This time has galvanized in me the desire to make the voice of entrepreneurial dietitians heard in the Academy. We are a growing group of dietitians, and I want to work to make our views heard as Delegate.”
-
Sarah: “I believe I am the best candidate for the position because I am organized, driven, and a collaborative team player. I am also detail-oriented and thrive in developing organized processes that promote fairness, transparency, and objectivity. Specifically, I have demonstrated strategic thinking by enhancing the recruitment process in my role as Nominating Chair for the Philadelphia Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. As an entrepreneur, I enjoy connecting with others, as evidenced by the relationships I have built with businesses, community members, and fellow professionals. My strong written and oral communication skills will enable me to engage potential leaders who will advance NE’s mission and reflect the evolving trends within the profession. Lastly, my current experience as an adjunct instructor, and other experiences in clinical settings, entrepreneurship, and leadership roles has equipped me to recognize and value different leadership styles and strengths that will continue to enhance NE’s leadership board.”
-
Kristi: “Over my many years as a member of NEDPG, I have established a large network of friends and colleagues. I believe my strong networking skills will help bring highly talented nominees to the executive committee. Additionally, I bring my passion and enthusiasm for helping other dietitians succeed. I will harness that energy supporting fellow NEDPG members through various avenues, such as the mentoring program.”
-
Jasmine: “I have had about 5 years of experience as an entrepreneur and private practice owner. My small group practice, Mendinground Nutrition, is an insurance-based practice and it has been a joy to grow over the years. I have also been doing business coaching through The Liberated Clinician for the last few years to help other clinicians start and grow their practices. I'm looking forward to helping the NE DPG and its members!”
Thank you,
NE DPG Nominating Committee
Leah Tsui, MS, RDN, LDN
Past Chair/Nominating Committee Chair/Practice Excellence Committee Liaison
Nominating Committee: Lila Cornelio, MPH, RDN, LDN, Heather Rudalavage RDN, LDN, Valerie Tucciarone, CPT
