Registered Dietitian Nutritionists - Bringing the science of food and nutrition to tables across the Mountain State.
The WVAND established the Lillian Halverson Scholarship in 2015 in honor of her service to the dietetics community. Lillian received her Bachelor of Science in Home Economics Education and her Masters of Science in Nutrition from the University of Wisconsin Stout Campus. She went on to complete her PhD at The Ohio State University.
Lillian taught in the Human Ecology Department at West Virginia Wesleyan College for 30 years, and directed their undergraduate dietetics program. She retired from Wesleyan in the year 2000 upon the close of the dietetics program.
Lillian serves as the President of the Board of Directors for Head Start, and as the President of the Board of Directors for West Virginia Aging Services, which serves more than 40 counties in the state. She serves on the executive board for the state Home Economics Association. As a member of the St Joseph's Hospital Auxiliary, she enjoys knitting booties for the gift shop. Presenting to community groups about food safety and labeling is another way Lillian shares her expertise and serves her community.
Lillian has been recognized by the University of Wisconsin Stout Campus as one of their "Outstanding Alumni." Delta Kappa Gamma, a national organization which recognizes outstanding teachers, has awarded her membership. West Virginia Wesleyan named Lillian as a faculty member who "goes the extra mile".
Her students remarked on the ease of conversation with Lillian and complemented her welcoming nature. Lillian helped to shape students who are leading successful and accomplished careers in dietetics, home economics, and the culinary arts.
Wesleyan recognized one of her former students as an "Outstanding Entrepreneur", for having four successful restaurants in the Chicago. "Outstanding Young Professional" was a title given to another former student who travels and speaks as an expert on Celiac Disease. The Governor appointed another of her former students to the WV Board of Licensed Dietitians.
In 30 years of teaching, Lillian has touched the lives of many dietetics students, nursing students, pre-medical students, adult fitness students, members of her community, as well as many others. For her continued service, volunteerism, dedication in shaping future professionals, and passion for the field of Nutrition and Dietetics, the WVAND would like to honor Lillian for the many lives she continues to touch.