Kathy Thames, TC-MAND Education Lead
Provide us with a brief description of your job: During Covid, I returned to my alma mater as Assistant Professor of Nutrition & Dietetics at Saint Catherine University in St. Paul, MN. I like to tell students that I am a great example of the versatility of our profession since I have worked in almost every area of dietetics because our family has moved 10 times in my career. We lived across the country in Georgia, Louisiana, Missouri, Colorado & Arizona before returning to our Minnesota roots. Along with raising four children, I worked as an RD in transitional care, skilled nursing, cardiac rehab, critical care, outpatient clinics, fitness centers, employee wellness, public health, dialysis center, food service, private practice and a start-up business. Now I bring that practical experience and application to my students in our classroom.
What do you love about what you do? My job is flexible and provides lifelong learning for me as a professional. I also love student enthusiasm and commitment to the power of nutrition to improve health.
What are the challenges? The aftermath of the online environment induced by the pandemic has changed the way students expect to learn and challenges my creativity in the classroom.
How has your MAND membership benefited you? Because I am returning to the MSP area, MAND allows me an opportunity to connect with other professionals and hear about the incredible roles MAND RDs play in our community.
What do you think is the future of nutrition and dietetics? I can’t predict the future, but I believe students need impeccable writing, speaking and research skills along with counseling practice to become effective and influential dietetic professionals who provide the most reliable and effective nutrition education.
What are your favorite activities/hobbies? I love anything outdoors and Minnesota’s four seasons provide so much variety. Making time for long walks, hiking, yoga, Pilates and cooking for my family and friends are my priorities.
What is your favorite restaurant in Minnesota? Alma
About MAND
Minnesota Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (MAND) is an affiliate of the Academy of Nutrition & Dietetics. We are the largest professional organization of nutrition health professionals in Minnesota, dedicated to optimizing Minnesotans' health through food and nutrition.