Mark Glen, MS, RD
Provide us with a brief description of your job: I teach in the Nutrition department at the College of Saint Benedict/Saint John’s University. Currently I teach the Nutrition Therapy courses, a course called Diet, Health, and Disease Prevention, and labs for our introductory nutrition courses. I am also currently the department chair for Nutrition.
What do you love about what you do? I really enjoy interacting with the students. I also love to learn, and to teach you need to constantly be learning new things.
What are the challenges? Being department chair is my main challenge. There are a number of things that a chair needs to do, and prioritizing and staying on top of those things can be challenging.
How has your MAND membership benefited you? It has provided me with opportunities to connect with other dietetics professionals.
What do you think is the future of nutrition and dietetics? I am a poor prognosticator, so this is hard for me to answer. I do, however, think that dietitians need to keep advocating strongly for themselves and the profession so that other providers (e.g., nurses) do not cross professional boundaries.
What are your favorite activities/hobbies? I enjoy walking, biking, trying new India Pale Ales, and watching British mysteries and dramas.
What is your favorite restaurant in Minnesota? I like Granite City Food and Brewery (in St. Cloud and Maple Grove).