Illinois Dietetic Association

Lori Carlson MS, RD, LDN

       I am delighted and honored to be EIDA President for the 2012-2013 year. Our work as food and nutrition professionals is dynamic, challenging, and truly impacts the lives of those we serve in our communities. Our diverse event calendar is reflective of the growing opportunities available for Registered Dietitians, Dietetic Technicians, Registered and dietetic students. I am also excited to introduce Natalie Rodakowski, EIDA President-elect. Together, we reviewed feedback from the membership survey to help plan meetings that benefit members from all areas of our district. She will also assist with organizing our 2013 National Nutrition Month events.

       Our kick-off meeting will focus on the growing importance of being media savvy in “Enhancing Our Brand: Marketing & Media Training” featuring Kristina Adams, Illinois Dietetic Association Media Rep. We will also review steps members can take to establish relationships with their elected officials as public policy continues to be a focus of our profession. This October we will again be hosting an interdisciplinary meeting with dietitians, nurses, occupational and physical therapists. A representative from the Illinois Alliance to Prevent Obesity (IAPO) will address how practitioners can work together to address obesity-related health issues. This fall we will also be having a culinary event! Join us for a Mediterranean cooking class at Eastern Illinois University. Learn new techniques to better educate your clients on the ease of tasty and healthful meal preparation.

       I am thrilled to continue EIDA’s partnership with the University of Illinois Dietetic Internship. We have many great opportunities planned for this year’s interns, one of which is completely planning the February and March EIDA meetings. They will also present research findings during our April forum along with interns from Eastern Illinois University. I am looking forward to learning from their fresh ideas and interests.

       EIDA’s membership benefits are always growing. Besides great networking opportunities and continuing education units, gain access to free webinars, job announcements, and newsletters. Follow EIDA on Facebook and Twitter @EIDA_Dietetics. Volunteer and be active! The 2012-2013 can be outstanding with your help. I look forward to meeting you at this year’s events and hope you will enjoy all EIDA has to offer.

Best of health,

Lori Carlson, MS, RD, LDN
2012-13 EIDA President

If you have any questions, please contact us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. . Membership is available for $25 ($5 for students); registration can be completed using this Membership Form (word doc).

2012 - 2013 EIDA District Officers