Rasmussen

Kathleen M. Rasmussen, professor of nutritional sciences and the Nancy Schlegel Meinig Professor of Maternal and Child Nutrition at Cornell’s College of Human Ecology, has been recognized by the American Society for Nutrition with the Conrad A. Elvehjem Award for Public Service in Nutrition. She received the award April 23 in Chicago.

The award recognized her scientific and distinguished service to the public through the science of nutrition, and service as president of the American Society for Nutritional Sciences in 2006, during which she led its merger with the American Society for Clinical Nutrition and the Society for International Nutrition Research to become the current day American Society for Nutrition.

Internationally known for her research, Rasmussen primarily studies the relationship between maternal nutrition and short- and long-term health outcomes for women and their children.

Rasmussen has served on several expert committees at the Institute of Medicine, including as chair of its Committee on Re-examination of Pregnancy Weight Guidelines. Most recently, she chaired the Committee to Review WIC Food Packages, the sole program that specifically targets the nutritional needs of pregnant, breastfeeding or postpartum women; infants; and children younger than 5 years of age.

She directed two National Institutes of Health-sponsored training grants in maternal and child nutrition for more than 25 years, and has worked as the principal faculty member at the Dannon Nutrition Leadership Institute for almost two decades.

“Kathy’s tireless efforts to improve the lives of mothers and their children through nutrition is the definition of excellence in scientific achievement and public service,” said Patrick Stover, professor of nutritional sciences and director of the Division of Nutritional Sciences. “Her distinction in teaching, research and public engagement exemplifies the work we are undertaking to better human health and well-being across the world.”

Her service to Cornell includes previously serving as director of graduate studies for the field of nutrition and as associate dean and secretary of the university faculty. She was elected by the university faculty to be a member of Cornell’s Board of Trustees from 2004 to 2008.

Stephen D'Angelo is assistant director of communications for the College of Human Ecology.