Wemhoener Recognized as Fellow by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics

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Heather Wemhoener

Heather Wemhoener, online program director and lecturer in the Department of Nutrition, has been named a Fellow of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (FAND). The designation recognizes academy members who have distinguished themselves among their colleagues, as well as in their communities, by their service to the dietetics profession and by optimizing the nation's health through food and nutrition.

The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics is the world's largest organization of food and nutrition professionals; it is committed to improving the nation's health and advancing the profession of nutrition and dietetics through research, education and advocacy. 

A fellow signifies that a member has lived up to the academy’s values of customer focus, integrity, innovation and social responsibility.

“I am honored to receive this recognition from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and deeply grateful to Dr. Lindiwe Sibeko and Bridget Ondrick, MS, RDN, for their endorsement of my fellowship,” says Wemhoener.

In 2020, Wemhoener joined the faculty at the University of Massachusetts Amherst, where she also earned bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral degrees in Nutrition. She is a registered dietitian and board certified specialist in gerontological nutrition. 

Wemhoener also currently serves as the president of the Western Area Massachusetts Dietetic Association and a subject matter expert for the Commission on Dietetic Registration. Recently, she was part of a team of healthcare providers and patients invited by the National Council on Aging to speak with federal legislators about the Treat and Reduce Obesity Act. The proposed bill would allow for Medicare Part D coverage of FDA-approved anti-obesity medications as well as access to intensive behavioral therapy with a dietitian or other qualified provider. It would also prevent loss of access to current medications for people switching from private insurance to Medicare and potentially preventing comorbid conditions such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and chronic kidney disease.