upwaRD™ is a professional recognition and development program for emerging nutrition communicators.

Congratulations to our upwaRD™ class of 2024

FoodMinds would like to introduce the 2024 class of upwaRD™. These four individuals are up-and-coming RDNs and leaders in their communities. They demonstrate innovation, dedication and excellence in communications within the field of nutrition and dietetics.

Meet the 2024 class

Zariel Grullón RDN, CDN, LDN, LD
Gregory Lafortune MS, RDN, LD
Alicia “Chacha” Miller MS, RDN
Maria Sylvester Terry MS, RDN, LDN

Thank you to everyone who nominated a candidate. Winners will have the opportunity to connect with seasoned nutrition communications professionals and learn about partnering with food and beverage brands.

Alumni

Class of 2023

Christina Chu MS, RDN, LDN
Emily Holdorf RD
Catherine Karnatz MPH, RD
Diana Mesa RD/LDN, CDCES

Class of 2022

Dasha Agoulnik MS, RD
Kristen Carli MS, RD
Cindy Chou RDN
Paula Rubello MS, RDN

Class of 2021

Mackenzie Burgess RDN
Antonio Castillo MS, RD, LDN
Huma Chaudhry RD, LDN
Kylie Sakaida MS, RD, LDN

Class of 2019

Alice Figueroa MPH, RDN
Melissa Groves RDN, LD
Ariana Haidari RD
Drew Hemler MSc, RD, CDN
Brianna Tobritzhofer MS, RD, LD

Inaugural Class of 2018

Valerie Agyeman RD
Stefanie Dove RDN, SNS
Julie Harrington RD
Emily Kyle MS, RDN
Tessa Nguyen RD, LDN