Aloha HDA members and fellow colleagues,

Happy New Year!  It’s hard to believe this marks the year of our 75th Anniversary as an organization.  HDA is proud to represent you.  Our members are the most valued source of food and nutrition services in the state of Hawaii.  It’s with you in mind that I share what’s in store for 2014.

I’m so very excited about our 2014 Annual Spring Conference:  “Kūlia: Strive!”  We have an exciting line up of speakers and topics.  The Council on Professional Issues (CPI) committee is hard at work planning an educational and social event that is sure to nourish your Mind, Body and Spirit.  Online registration begins on February 7, 2014. We will have an announcement and link on our website by this date.

We will be recognizing and celebrating the work of those dietitians who led the way for the future of dietetics in Hawaii.  You may submit pictures, HDA memorabilia, and stories you wish to share to Ann Ditzler.

It’s time for the 2014 Academy elections!  Voting opened on February 1 and runs through February 22, 2014.  As a member of the Academy, you can help shape the future of the dietetics profession by exercising your privilege to vote.  You will be automatically entered to win a FREE registration to the Academy’s Food & Nutrition Conference Expo (FNCE), October 18-21, 2014 in Atlanta!  Visit www.eatright.org/elections to view the slate of candidates and vote electronically.

The HDA Public Policy Panel is planning for our 4th annual State Legislative Day on Wednesday, March 12, 2014.  This day also celebrates National Registered Dietitian Day.  Please join us for this opportunity to network with fellow RDs in the community.  HDA will be hosting a networking breakfast for members and state legislators.  Legislative visits are also being planned to discuss important and relevant food and nutrition related legislation.

Your board of directors met on January 16, 2014.  One of the goals of the board is to bring more value to you our members!  Another first for HDA is our newly enhanced website and Facebook page.  Our FB page went live on October 26, 2013.  I invite you to visit and “like” our FB page at https://www.facebook.com/HawaiiDieteticAssociation

Finally, we are looking for nominations for the following:

  • Recognized Young Dietitian of the Year
  • Emerging Dietetic Leader of the Year
  • Outstanding Dietitian of the Year
  • Outstanding Dietetics Student Award

Contact me to submit names of potential nominees and obtain an award application.

As an organization of more than 300 members made up food and nutrition professionals, I am honored to share in our continued mission to promote optimal nutrition, health and well-being to the people of Hawaii.

In good health and gratitude,

Sally