President Description

The President will serve for one (1) year. The President will: 1. Serve as the Chief Executive Officer of the West Virginia Academy and Chair of the Board and the Executive Committee. 2. Preside at all meetings of the membership, Board and Executive Committee. 3. Have the general powers of supervision and active management usually vested in that office. 4. See that all lawful orders and resolutions of the Board are carried out. 5. Serve as a member of the Finance and Advisory Committees. 6. Serve as a member of all committees of the Board. 7. Approve committee members appointed by committee chairs as specified in Article IX, Section 1B. 8. Make the following appointments subject to the approval of the Executive Committee: a. One member of the Finance Committee. b. Two members of the Advisory Committee. c. Tellers. 9. Appoint, after obtaining the approval of the Executive Committee, a qualified member to fill the unexpired term of any and all vacancies as specified in Article VIII, Section 9. 10. Replace persons unable to fulfill the responsibilities of the appointment arising in any committee. 11. Ensure that the West Virginia Academy's strategic direction and values are carried into effect except in those instances in which those responsibilities are specifically assigned to another officer.

Bio: Nettie Puglisi Freshour

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Nettie Puglisi Freshour, a licensed and registered dietitian currently serves as Teaching Professor and Director of the Graduate Dietetic Internship at West Virginia University. Freshour earned her bachelor’s (2003) Masters of science (2005) degrees in Human Nutrition and Foods and a PhD in Higher Education Administration (2023) at WVU.

Before her current role, Freshour was the Director of Sports Nutrition for West Virginia University Department of Intercollegiate Athletics from August 2013 until June of 2018. In addition to serving as the sports dietitian for the athletic department, Freshour had continuously been an adjunct professor for the Human Nutrition and Foods Department since 2006 teaching an introduction to nutrition course, a Sports nutrition course that she developed and hosted a Professional Field experience where nutrition students got a firsthand experience fueling Division 1 athletes.

Before becoming a full-time member of the WVU athletic staff, Freshour served as the department’s nutrition consultant for over eight years. During that time, she was also the Program Director for WVU’s Dining Services. In her role there, Freshour earned two national awards for the Healthy “U” program, which encouraged a healthy lifestyle for university students. Freshour was a member of the National Association of College and University Food Services (NACUFS) Mid-Atlantic Regional counsel, serving as the Nutrition Chair for six years, as well as being apart of the National counsel.

Freshour, a Wheeling, W.Va native, resides in Morgantown with her husband Gary, daughter Ryleigh and son Brayden.

President-Elect Description

The President will serve for one (1) year. The President will: 1. Serve as the Chief Executive Officer of the West Virginia Academy and Chair of the Board and the Executive Committee. 2. Preside at all meetings of the membership, Board and Executive Committee. 3. Have the general powers of supervision and active management usually vested in that office. 4. See that all lawful orders and resolutions of the Board are carried out. 5. Serve as a member of the Finance and Advisory Committees. 6. Serve as a member of all committees of the Board. 7. Approve committee members appointed by committee chairs as specified in Article IX, Section 1B. 8. Make the following appointments subject to the approval of the Executive Committee: a. One member of the Finance Committee. b. Two members of the Advisory Committee. c. Tellers. 9. Appoint, after obtaining the approval of the Executive Committee, a qualified member to fill the unexpired term of any and all vacancies as specified in Article VIII, Section 9. 10. Replace persons unable to fulfill the responsibilities of the appointment arising in any committee. 11. Ensure that the West Virginia Academy's strategic direction and values are carried into effect except in those instances in which those responsibilities are specifically assigned to another officer.

Bio: Jessica Runyon

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Jess Runyon has practiced clinical dietetics in West Virginia for the last 15 years. She is the Clinical Nutrition Supervisor at Cabell Huntington Hospital and leads a fantastic group of dietitians. In addition to management responsibilities, she is a Certified Nutrition Support Clinician through ASPEN and serves the patients in the Surgical Intensive Care Unit. Jess received her Bachelors and Masters in Dietetics from Marshall University and completed a separate Masters in Exercise Science. She is currently working to complete her Doctorate of Clinical Nutrition through Kansas University Medical Center.

Jess is a proud mom of two active children, Grace and William. While she resides in Proctorville, Ohio, she chooses to support the efforts dietetics profession in the state of WV.

Past President Description

1. The President-elect will serve for one year and at the close of the current fiscal year, after election, will automatically become President of the West Virginia Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. 2. The President-elect will succeed to the office of President in the case of a vacancy in that office and then will serve as President until the end of the second fiscal year after said vacancy occurs. The President-elect will have been a member of the Board within three years immediately proceeding the term as President-elect. The President-elect will: 1. Become acquainted with all the duties of the President and other officers. 2. Become familiar with the duties of each committee. 3. Perform the functions of President in the absence of the President. 4. Serve as a member of the Finance and Advisory Committees. 5. Appoint, subject to the approval of the Executive Committee co-chairs (as needed) of committees who will serve as chair during the President-elect's term as President. 6. Serve as alternate delegate. 7. Support the President in leading the West Virginia Academy toward its strategic direction and values. Present a written proposal for the strategic plan and budget for term as President for approval by the Board.

Bio: Helenia Sedoski

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Helenia received her bachelor's and master's degrees at WVU. She has been a Registered Dietitian since 2011. She has worked in long term care, in-patient, community programs, education and out-patient care. She currently works as an out-patient dietitian for WVU Medicine in Pediatrics and OB/GYN, with Princeton Community Hospital with telehealth services and owns a private practice. She has served on WV Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Board as treasurer and State Policy Representative in the past. Helenia has a passion for helping others develop a good relationship with food and looks forward to helping the field of Dietetics grow.

Secretary Description

The Treasurer will serve for two years. The Treasurer will: 1. Receive and have custody of all funds and securities of the West Virginia Academy. 2. Deposit all moneys in the depositories, as may be designated by the Board. 3. Sign and execute all contracts in the name of the West Virginia Academy when countersigned by the President. 4. Be responsible for keeping full and accurate accounts of all receipts and disbursements. 5. Render a financial report to the members of the Finance Committee and the Board and an annual report to the membership. 6. Serve as Chair of the Finance Committee. 7. Notify the chair of each committee of the amount of money budgeted for the use of that committee. 8. The auditor(s) selected by the Finance Committee will verify the books of the Treasurer at the close of the term of office. 9. Perform other duties as designated by the Board.

Bio: Faith Zegeer

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I’m from Winfield, West Virginia, born and raised. I graduated from West Virginia University with my bachelor’s degree in Human Nutrition and Foods in 2021. I went onto complete my masters and dietetic internship at Marywood University in Scranton, PA in 2023. In July 2023 I started my career with WVU Medicine, specifically Fairmont Medical Center where I work both the acute care units and the skilled nursing unit. In my spare time I like to spend time with loved ones, my pets, work out and go thrifting. I'm looking forward to building relationships through WVAND and being a part of improving this great state through dietetics!

Treasurer Description

Be elected by the members, serve for two (2) years and be a voting member of the Board.

• Assume office at the beginning of the new Fiscal Year.
• Be responsible for the minutes of all meetings of the Board and WVAND.
• Provide a copy of the Board minutes to the WVAND President to be included with the agenda. A permanent record of minutes will be maintained.
• Be responsible for keeping the official files of the names, mailing addresses, and email addresses of the members of WVAND as received from AND.
• Communicate the business of the Association by electronic mail to all members who have supplied an email address.
• In conjunction with the chair of Nominating Committee, see that the official ballot of WVAND is sent not less than thirty (30) calendar days prior to the closing of the polls to each member of WVAND eligible to vote. Notice must also be given that each eligible member may cast one vote for each officer and on any other matters upon which a vote of the member is required.
• Receive from the Tellers Committee the report of duly elected officers and numerical results of election. File a numerical count for reference in the event of a vacancy in an office (Chair, Nominating Committee, for example).
• Give notification promptly to all candidates on the ballot as to the outcome of the election.
• Post notice of all WVAND meetings on the WVAND website (www.eatrightwv.org ), not less than fifteen (15) or more than sixty (60) calendar days prior to the meeting. Send to all members of WVAND notice of all WVAND meetings.
• Send out reporting form to committee chairs 2 weeks prior to meetings.
• Submit a budget for the office of Secretary to the Finance Committee for consideration.
• Send notice to the Board of any workshops or meetings. Attend the Board Workshop and all Board meetings.
• Be responsible for obtaining updates of the membership list from AND for use in mailings.
• Submit an updated list of members and non-members to Brian Morgan (Web Master) quarterly for listserv e-mailing. Quarters are as listed:
  • Quarter 1: June 1-August 31
  • Quarter 2: September 1-November 30
  • Quarter 3: December 1-Feb 28
  • Quarter 4: March 1-June1
• Maintain and update files for submission to successor.
• Review and recommend revisions in the WVAND Bylaws and the Board Operational Guidelines relative to the office of Secretary.
• Have any and all other powers and duties usually vested in the office of Secretary.

Bio: Kelli George-Steadman

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Kelli is originally from Richmond, Virginia and relocated to West Virginia in 2019. She has been an RDN since 2015 and currently works as a Teaching Associate Professor and Director of the Didactic Program in Dietetics at WVU. Kelli earned her bachelor's degree at Virginia Tech, completed her dietetic internship at VCU Health, and earned her doctorate at Florida State University. At WVU, Kelli teaches numerous courses and advises many students on their nutrition and health-related career paths. Her free time is often spent outdoors with her husband and dog, or inside crafting, baking, or relaxing with her cat.

Delegate Description

The Chair of the Council on Professional Issues will serve for one year. The Chair of Council on Professional Issues will: 1. Serve as program chair for the educational meeting(s) of the West Virginia Academy. 2. Serve as a liaison with the Program Planning Committee

Bio: Rebecca Dattola Mills

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Rebecca Dattola Mills is Registered and Licensed Dietitian with over 10 years of experience. Most of her professional time has been spent in the clinical realm but she has also enjoyed time teaching at both the community college and undergraduate levels as well as working closely with dietetic interns. She has served on the Public Policy Committee of WVAND as the State Policy Representative and Public Policy Coordinator.

Public Policy Committee Chair Description

The Public Policy Coordinator will:

1. Assume office at the beginning of the new Fiscal Year, as determined by the Board. This is a position appointed by the WVAND President-Elect. It is recommended that this be a three (3) year consecutive appointment.
2. Be a voting member of the Board.
3. Submit a written report of the PPC activities prior to each meeting of the Board.
4. Serve as a link between the AND Legislative staff, the WVAND Board and the District Dietetic Association LNCs or Legislative Chair.
5. Maintain a communication network within the state to provide “grass roots” information and input into AND legislative activities
6. Write articles for the Bulletin/Newsletter each time of publication.
7. Attend the AND Public Policy workshop, if WVAND budget permits.
8. Represent legislative matters of WVAND to the AND.
9. Plan and implement all legislative activities for WVAND, with the approval of the Board. Keep abreast of legislative actions impacting the dietetics profession.
10. Monitor all legislation affecting the practice of dietetics and nutrition in the state of West Virginia. Attend the meetings of the West Virginia Board of Licensed Dietitians (WVBOLD). Keep WVAND apprised of all legislative activities of WVBOLD.
11. Recommend lobbyist to the Board. Participate in development of lobbyist’s contract and job expectations. Monitor lobbyist’s activities and keep WVAND apprised of all legislative activities through written reports to the WVAND President.
12. Submit a budget for LNC to the Finance Committee for consideration.
13. Participate in the Board workshop to orient incoming Board members.
14. Review and recommend revisions in Board Policy and Procedure Document relative to LNC.
15. Maintain and update files for currency and submission to successor.

Bio: Emma Slagel

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Emma Slagel is a registered dietetic technician. Has been working with dietitians at WVU medicine for over 3 years.

Communications/State Media Committee Chair Description

The Public Relations Chair will:

1. Assume office at the beginning of the new Fiscal Year, as determined by the Board. This is a position appointed by the President-Elect of WVDA. It is recommended that this Chair be appointed for two (2) consecutive years.
2. Be a voting member of the Board.
3. Submit a written report of Public Relations activities for distribution prior to each meeting of the Board.
4. Serve as a link between the ADA and WVDA.
5. Send news items to ADA Journal, and to the Editor of the WVDA Bulletin/Newsletter. Material must be submitted to JADA two months in advance of desired publication.
6. Plan all Public Relations activities for the State, including publicity, subject to the approval of the Board.
7. Plan and coordinate the statewide program for National Nutrition Month. Communicate with the district Public Relation Chair and encourage them to emphasize and publicize this event through media, seminars and educational displays.
8. Prepare a report of all activities and submit to ADA.
9. Prepare an annual plan of goals consistent with the Long Range Goals of WVDA.
10. Submit a budget for Public Relations activities to the Finance Committee for Consideration.
11. Participate in the Board workshop to orient incoming Board members.
12. Review and recommend revisions in the Board Policy and Procedures Document relative to Public Relations.
13. Maintain and update files for currency and submission to successor.

Bio: Carmalyn Fitz

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Carmalyn Fitz received her bachelor’s and master's degrees at West Virginia University. She has been a licensed and registered dietitian for just over a year and loves working in dietetics. She currently works at WVU Medicine Ruby Memorial Hospital as an inpatient clinical dietitian and enjoys learning and growing in her field with guidance from a team of amazing RDs. She has been an Academy member since she was a student and was present for the last two WVAND conferences. She has a passion for multiple nutrition focused subjects including improving access to public health. She is known for emailing WV elected officials on a regular basis to advocate for nutrition outreach. She loves anything outdoors (picnics/hikes/biking), enjoys crafting, reading, lifting weights, running, playing soccer, and, like most RDs, loves baking, cooking, and eating. She currently resides in Morgantown with her partner and two cats.

Foundation/Fundraising Committee Chair Description

1. Assume office at the beginning of the new Fiscal Year, as determined by the Board. This is a position appointed by the WVDA President-Elect. It is recommended that this position serve for more than one (1) year, as determined by the Board.
2. Attend and participate in all WVDA Board meetings.
3. Be a voting member of the Board.
4. Serve as a liaison to WVDA for the American Dietetic Association Foundation. The ADAF communicates specific fundraising goals and will provide the tools and support to help each state chair reach their goals. Support that can be expected from ADAF includes: ADAF staff person serving as a liaison to state fundraising chairs; fundraising tips; fundraising resource kit and monthly communication.
5. Plan activities within the State to help raise money for the foundation. Activities may include: phone-a-thons, direct mail campaigns, one-on-one solicitations, silent auctions, raffles and other special events.
6. Send thank you notes/acknowledgements to major donors, such as raffle/auctions donors.
7. Participate in state annual meeting with an informational table, have time on the agenda to raise funds for the ADAF.
8. Contribute ADAF updates and news in WVDA Bulletin and list serves.
9. Notify the Treasurer to send a check to ADA Foundation before the closing date of the campaign.
10. Submit a budget to the Finance Committee for consideration.
11. Participate in the Board workshop to orient incoming Board members.
12. Participate in Affiliate Fundraising Chair Workshops at FNCE, when possible.
13. Update and maintain files for currency and submission to successor.
14. Review and recommend revisions in the WVDA Policy and Procedure manual relative to the committee.

Bio: Stephanie Thompson

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Stephanie is from Princeton,West Virginia who graduated from West Virginia University with her Bachelor’s in Human Nutrition and Foods and her Master’s in Nutritional and Food Science. She then completed her Dietetic Internship with Marshall University Distance Internship Program in June 2018. After her internship, Stephanie began working with Keegan and Associates Inc. as a Consultant Dietitian. Stephanie now works as an Outpatient Dietitian with WVU Medicine in Morgantown where she see's a variety of conditions.

Advisory Chair Description

Bio: Sharon Maynard

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My name is Sharon Maynard and I work for the American Dairy Association Mideast on behalf of dairy farmers in Ohio and WV. I work with professional organizations in WV such as: Registered Dietitians, Interns, Pediatricians, Family Physicians, WIC Nutrition Educators, School Nutrition Professionals to provide resources and education on the latest dairy science.
In schools, we provide small equipment grants to expand access and variety to school meals.

I have been a member of WVAND for many years and love serving in leadership and mentorship.

Professional Development Chair Description

1. Assume office at the beginning of the new Fiscal Year, as determined by the Board. This is a position appointed by the WVDA President-Elect.
2. Be a voting member of the Board.
3. Prior to every Board meeting, submit a written report of programs approved for Continuing Education Units (CEU).
4. Evaluate and approve the quality of programs submitted according to Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) guidelines.
5. Participate as an educational advisor for any educational events within the state or district associations.
6. Review and update procedural guidelines for granting continuing education hours provided by the CDR.
7. Submit a budget for continuing education to the finance committee for consideration.
8. Participate in the Board workshop to orient the incoming education chair position.
9. Review and recommend revisions in the Board Policy and Procedures Document relative to continuing education.
10. Maintain and update files for currency and submission to successor.
11. May serve on the Program Planning Committee and assist Program Planning Chair with planning meeting.

Bio: Brittany Paitsel

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Brittany earned both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees in nutrition from The University of Alabama and completed her dietetic internship with Morrison Healthcare on the Mississippi Gulf Coast. For the past five years, she has specialized in caring for patients with chronic kidney disease, earning her CSR (Certified Specialist in Renal Nutrition) credential to further enhance her expertise in this area. Brittany has served on the Membership and Professional Development Committees within WVAND and is excited to step into the role of Professional Development Chair this year. Outside of work, she enjoys traveling, shopping, and playing volleyball with her daughter.