Letter From Shelly Brandenburger, PhD, RD, LN, DC, FIAMA
MAND President 2026–2027
I’m honored and excited to begin my term as your MAND President. My career in healthcare and higher education has given me a deep passion for advancing the dietetics profession, supporting sustainable food systems, and highlighting the important role of nutrition in mental health.
Currently, I serve as an Associate Professor and Graduate Program Director at Minnesota State University, Mankato, where I’ve spent the past five years helping build an innovative 5-year Master’s program to support the future of our profession. Before returning to Minnesota, I spent 20 years in South Dakota serving in leadership roles with SDAND, including President.
Outside of work, my husband and I enjoy growing organic produce on our acreage, supporting local conservation efforts, and spending time with family. I’m also an avid reader who appreciates any chance to unplug with a good book.
This year, my goal is to make MAND a “Year of Connection.” Building on the incredible work of past leaders and alongside our energetic Board and Executive Director Jana Dengel, we hope to create more opportunities for members to connect, learn, and engage. We want MAND to be YOUR organization, so please share your ideas and join us for an exciting year ahead!
Looking forward to working with all of you this year,
Shelly Brandenburger, PhD, RD, LN, DC, FIAMA
MAND 2026-2027 President
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.