Shenoy and Lesser at the CAND Annual Conference. Courtesy Photo.
Congratulations to Master of Nutritional Sciences and Dietetics (MNSD) instructor Mary Lesser and graduate student Ajay Shenoy, who were recognized by the California Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (CAND) at their annual conference on April 25.
Lesser, an assistant adjunct professor in the Department of Nutritional Sciences and Toxicology, received CAND’s Excellence in Research award in recognition of her long-standing commitment to research, leadership, and teaching. Working as a scientist and dietitian has helped Lesser develop a wide range of technical abilities to propose and conduct food and nutrition research, translate data into usable information, and communicate her findings to multiple audiences. Her research has explored the effects of maternal consumption of high levels of certain flavonoids on reproductive, developmental, and cardiovascular outcomes in normal and atherosclerosis mutant mouse models and investigated specific maternal factors that influence fetal growth and birth outcomes.
At Rausser College, Lesser helped create the new MNSD program and has led the effort on the research components. She developed and taught a new Research Methods and Analysis in Nutritional Sciences course that guides MNSD students through the scientific process and understanding of evidence-based practice, using clinical and molecular nutrition research methodologies. She also serves as the coordinator for the Capstone Research experience, where she facilitates the placement and support of each graduate student into research settings for the summer.
In addition to her duties to the MNSD, Lesser works as a clinical dietitian at UCSF Benioff Children's Hospital and is the incoming Vice President of Public Policy for CAND. She is also involved with the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and the American Society of Nutrition.
Shenoy, a graduate student in the program, received CAND’s Outstanding Dietetics Student Award. The award recognizes the emerging leadership and achievement of students enrolled in accredited dietetics education programs.
As a member of the first MNSD cohort, Shenoy has demonstrated exceptional dedication to academic excellence and passion for nutrition and dietetics. His commitment to the dietetics profession is evident through his vision for nutrition care in disabled patients; contributions to inclusion, diversity, equity, and access; and dedication through his involvement in the Academy’s Disabilities in Nutrition and Dietetics Member Interest Group (MIG) and Indians Nutrition and Dietetics MIG.