We recently celebrated Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN) Day and Nutrition and Dietetics Technician, Registered (NDTR) Day, and we are proud to recognize the dedicated nutrition professionals who make a difference in patient care every day. From improving clinical outcomes to educating patients and supporting healthcare teams, our RDNs and NDTRs play a critical role in advancing health and wellness across the communities we serve.
One of the ways our teams continue to grow and lead within the profession is through participation in the Food & Nutrition Conference & Expo (FNCE)—the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics’ annual gathering of nutrition experts from across the country. The conference provides opportunities to learn about emerging trends, share best practices, present research, and connect with colleagues who are shaping the future of nutrition.
Several Compass Healthcare leaders and dietitians shared reflections.
Q: What was your favorite part of FNCE 2025?
Kristin Dugger, MS, RDN, CSO, LD/N, FAND
Division Director, Clinical Support, Morrison Healthcare
A: My favorite part of the FNCE experience was the incredible opportunity to connect with friends and colleagues from across the country, and with industry experts who are shaping the future of nutrition. Walking through the expo hall, I was surrounded by innovation and the latest products and solutions influencing how we deliver patient care and wellness.
The sessions and stories shared throughout the conference were equally inspiring, reminding me why I chose this profession in the first place. FNCE left me recharged both personally and professionally!
Q: Were there any interesting questions or discussions that stood out during your session?
Jenny Overly
Director, Clinical Services Sr., CCL Hospitality Group
A: Following the session, several attendees approached me to share their own experiences. Our information really resonated with them, especially as many are struggling to demonstrate their value and approach leadership to propose additional RDN staffing.
As more RDNs face this challenge, some may find themselves discouraged and ultimately leave their roles, which contributes to the ongoing shortage of RDNs in senior living. It was meaningful to hear how the session validated their experiences and helped them think about ways to advocate for their roles.
Q: What sessions or parts of the conference stood out to you?
Carrie Huhtanen, MS, RDN, LD
Regional Clinical Nutrition Manager, Morrison Healthcare
A: I generally enjoyed the sessions I attended but especially liked the “Hot Topics” discussions because they felt so relevant to what is happening in the profession right now. The Learning Lounge sessions were also very engaging.
One of the highlights for me was reconnecting with past colleagues and spending some time helping at the Compass booth.
Q: You presented at FNCE, how did your session go? What would you do differently?
Gisele Leger, MS, RDN, LDN, CNSC, FAND
National Director, Clinical Support, Morrison Healthcare
A: I was honored to participate in a panel discussion at FNCE on the topic “Building a Resilient Workforce: Strategies for RDNs/NDTRs Retention and Engagement.” Collaborating with Compass colleagues, Emily LaStarza from CCL and Aaron Brown from Touchpoint was a true privilege, and our session was expertly moderated by Jennifer Roberts, VP of Nutrition at Compass Group.
Overall, I felt the presentation went well. The engagement during the Q&A and the conversations afterward suggested that attendees found the session both informative and relevant. It was rewarding to see our shared experiences and strategies resonate with others in the field.
Like many presenters, I walked away with a few reflections on what I might do differently next time. There were moments when I wished I had expanded on certain answers or framed a point more clearly. Those reflections are part of the growth process and a reminder that each presentation is an opportunity to refine and strengthen our message.
For anyone considering speaking at national conferences, my advice is simple: be as prepared as possible and choose a topic you are genuinely passionate about. Comfort and confidence grow with experience, and every opportunity helps you become a stronger communicator and advocate for our profession.
Q: What trends or emerging topics caught your attention at FNCE?
Crystal Vasquez, MS, RD-AP, CNSC, NWCC, FAND
Director of Nutrition Systems, Morrison Healthcare
A: I noticed a strong focus on AI integration in healthcare and the impact of GLP-1 medications, as well as growing attention to menopause and women’s health. These topics will likely shape both patient care and professional practice in the coming years.
Attending FNCE also inspired me by highlighting leadership skills, expanding my professional network, and showcasing nontraditional roles for dietitians. It broadened my vision for professional growth and the many directions our careers can take.
I was especially excited to meet and hear Mary Litchford speak about malnutrition and to explore new strategies for addressing misinformation in nutrition, particularly navigating the MAHA movement and other current fads. I look forward to bringing these insights back to my team to strengthen our evidence-based communication and patient education efforts.
Our wound healing and nutrition session also went very well, particularly in translating practical applications across disciplines. In the future, I’d like to expand on wound care across the continuum of care and explore more about comorbidities such as renal disease and malnutrition in relation to wound healing.
Q: What did presenting at FNCE mean to you?
Aaron Brown
Chief Customer Officer, TouchPoint
A: I was truly honored to be invited to present at FNCE. As this was my first time presenting at the conference, I wasn’t sure what to expect, but the experience far exceeded my expectations. The highlight was presenting alongside my Compass Group colleagues, Emily LaStarza, Giselle Leger, and Jennifer Roberts and listening to the thoughtful ways each of them engaged with the audience. It was inspiring to hear them share their expertise and to be associated with such talented professionals.
The positive feedback we received as a panel reinforced the impact of our session and made the experience even more meaningful. Participating in the panel helped me recognize how my career path has provided valuable experiences and insights that I can share with both aspiring and experienced RDNs.
Celebrating the Impact of Our Nutrition Teams
As we prepare to celebrate our clinical nutrition professionals, stories like these highlight the passion, expertise, and leadership our nutrition professionals bring to the field. Whether they are advancing research, presenting at national conferences, educating patients, or mentoring the next generation of dietitians, Compass Healthcare’s RDNs and NDTRs are making a meaningful impact every day.
