Although we were not able to celebrate them in person this year, we want to take a moment to acknowledge the two outstanding dietitians who are the recipients of this year's Registered Dietitian Awards.
Katie Defoe-Raymond, MS, RDN, LDN
Katie was nominated by Lauren Cotti and Marla Phelps, for her dedication and service to WAMDA;
“Katie was an integral member of the road race committee, putting in countless hours and effort to raise funds for the annual WAMDA Fitness 5k. Katie’s impeccable organizational skills kept the Sponsorship committee on task. There were numerous daily emails, contact information, spreadsheets, and checklists that were always up to date thanks to Katie. Katie is also a great communicator, collaborator, and the definition of proactive. Her timely communication to the rest of the committee members kept everyone informed and was crucial to meeting deadlines along the way.
From the day we began planning to the morning of the race, she showed up to offer her help in whatever aspect needed. This year we were able to donate $10,000 to the Food Bank of Western Massachusetts which would not have been possible without Katie. Thank you so much for everything you have done and continue to do for WAMDA, the Food Bank, and your community!”
Allison Mitchell RD, LDN
Allison was nominated by Eliana Lakritz, who had this to say about Allison’s contributions to the field;
“Allison is the Clinical Nutrition Manager for Baystate Wing, Franklin and Noble Hospitals. She has been a dependable resource for the dietitians at those locations. She’s always open to the ideas of her staff, acts as a mentor to all, and makes effective decisions as a manager. I can personally attest to her leadership and mentorship skills. She is easily approachable when anyone has a personal or professional issue they need to discuss. She considers what is best for her dietitians, even if it means creating more work for her. Not only does she work to advocate for the careers of her employees, but she constantly seeks to better her own. She is currently working on getting her Master’s degree, which she hopes to complete by this Fall. Allison does all of this while maintaining a household and raising two children under 5. Congratulations Allison and thank you for all you do!”
Congratulations to our award winners!