June Member Spotlight: Emily Heying

Provide us with a brief description of your job: Associate Professor of Nutrition & Registered Dietitian – I teach courses in metabolism, global health, and basic nutrition. I also lead our undergraduate research program in nutrition and conduct research regarding food insecurity in college students.
What do you love about what you do? I love working with college students. It’s so rewarding to see them tackle challenging topics and problem solve.
What are the challenges? There is never enough time to get everything done! At a smaller college, teaching is our main priority. I love teaching, but I often don’t get to spend as much time being creative in research as I want to.
How has your MAND membership benefited you? MAND has great networking opportunities! I also really enjoy the annual conference and bringing undergraduate researchers in a low-stress environment to present their research for the first time.
What do you think is the future of nutrition and dietetics? Incorporating the social determinants of health into every part of our practice! You can’t provide adequate recommendations for patients or clients without understanding their economic situation, cultural influences, and social experiences. I also would love to see a health care system where preventative care not only includes a doctor visit, but a visit with a dietitian and physical therapist as well.
What are your favorite activities/hobbies? Tennis, Reading Memoirs, Traveling,
What is your favorite restaurant in Minnesota? Bar La Grassa. The Gnocchi is my favorite dish in this state.
Please share your Instagram handle (and any other social media handles that you would like us to share):
@DrEmNutrition (twitter) @CSBSJU_NUTRITIONDEPT (Instagram 1), @thebusydietitian (Instagram 2)