Maria Torres Receives Recognized Young Dietitian of the Year Award

Maria Torres, MS, RDN, Culinary Medicine Instructor for the Biomedical Education Department at California Health Sciences University College of Osteopathic Medicine, was honored with the 2023 Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, Recognized Young Dietitian of the Year Award for the Central Valley District.  

Torres received this prestigious award at the California Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Awards Luncheon on Thursday, April 27, 2023, during the organization’s annual conference and expo.   

With only one dietitian in each of ten districts in California to receive this honor, the Recognized Young Dietitian of the Year Award recognizes the competence and activities of younger dietitians in the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and to encourage their continued participation in Academy affairs.  

Some of the criteria used for selecting the awardees included demonstrating concern for the promotion of optimal health and nutritional status of the population; leadership; and promoting Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, Access within the profession. 

According to their website, the California Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics is a not-for-profit membership association of approximately 6,500 registered dietitian nutritionists (RDNs), nutrition dietetic technicians registered (NDTRs), and students committed to improving California’s health and advancing the profession of dietetics through research, education, and advocacy. 

As a Mexican origin first-generation college graduate, Torres is proud to be a leader in her community and demonstrate that dedication will bring success, no matter the size. By receiving this award, she hopes to show local nutrition students that, at a young age, they can make a difference in their community and promote health and wellness.