The Illinois Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics named Julie Patterson, assistant professor of Nutrition and Dietetics in the School of Health Studies, as its 2022 Outstanding Dietitian of the Year award winner.
Each state selects a recipient for the annual award which recognizes the commitment to excellence made by an individual who has demonstrated outstanding leadership and service to the profession.
Julie Patterson
“This award is a high honor because I am in a field that attracts outstanding professionals,” said Patterson. “Most – if not all – of the people in my profession joined the field because they are internally driven to help others achieve a healthier life through nutrition.”
Patterson earned her bachelor’s degree from University of Illinois-Chicago, master’s degree from DePaul University and doctorate degree from the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Her research interests focus on health care practices that influence breastfeeding outcomes, infant feeding and breastfeeding.
“Nutrition is a highly satisfying career,” Patterson said. “We are empowered through education to help people improve their quality of life. I am literally in a profession of passionate super heroes who work at the core of health, which is why this award is quite humbling.”
A professor at NIU since 2018, Patterson said her favorite part of teaching is the opportunity to mentor a future generation of dietitians and nutrition professionals.
“I am especially inspired by the students at NIU who enrich every classroom experience with their diverse backgrounds and interests,” Patterson said. “I have seen how my former students take off in their careers, and it gives me a huge sense of pride to know that I may have had a positive impact on the way in which they approach the field.”
Her approach to teaching comes from advice she learned along the way.
“Someone once told me that we have a lot of good dietitians and we need some more great ones,” Patterson said. “This statement has resonated with me, and I am always looking for how I can do better or how I can increase my impact.”
Patterson said she encourages her students “to be the best in whatever area they choose to practice.”
“I encourage them to continue seeking education as a way to increase their competencies and grow their recognition as a true player in the field of allied health professionals,” she said.
Learn more about Nutrition and Dietetics at NIU.
