Our latest Distinguished Dietitian honoree is Chris McCullum-Gomez, PhD, RDN, LD
Learn more about Chris and her work below.
Credentials:
- PhD – Nutrition, Minors in Public Affairs and Program Evaluation (Cornell University)
- MS – Nutrition (Pennsylvania State University)
- BS – Nutrition (Pennsylvania State University)
Credentialed RD Since: 1991
Area(s) of Practice:
- Community-based participatory research
- Community food security
- Environmental nutrition
- Population health
- Sustainable food systems
Website:
Brief professional bio:
Dr. McCullum-Gomez is a consultant, speaker and writer. She also serves on the editorial boards of the Journal of Hunger & Environmental Nutrition and Edible Houston. Previously, she served as assistant professor, wellness dietitian, program evaluator, Dietetic Program Director, nutrition educator, and a policy intern at the Community Nutrition Institute in Washington DC.
What does ‘professional integrity’ mean to you?
Practicing ‘unselfish thinking,’ which makes us part of something greater than ourselves. This requires putting others first, helping others in need (e.g., volunteering at a soup kitchen or shelter for homeless persons), giving quietly or anonymously, supporting others’ physical and mental well-being, and checking our personal
motives.
What words of encouragement do you have for RDs-to-be looking to make a significant contribution to our profession?
Don’t be afraid to question the acceptance of popular thinking. As noted by New York Times bestselling author, John C. Maxwell (How Successful People Think), the problem with popular thinking is that it doesn’t require thinking at all. Many individuals follow others almost automatically. Sometimes they do so because they desire to take the path of least resistance. Other times they fear rejection. Or they believe there’s wisdom in doing what everyone else does. If you want to succeed, you need to think about what’s best, not popular. Challenging popular thinking requires a willingness to be unpopular and go outside the norm.
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We extend our congratulations to Chris and thank her for her many contributions to our profession.
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