Illinois Academy Awards

Each year, the Illinois Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics recognizes outstanding professionals and students who have made significant contributions to the nutrition and dietetics profession. These prestigious honors celebrate individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, professional achievement, and dedication to advancing the field of nutrition and dietetics. 

Winners receive a congratulatory letter and certificate signed by the president of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and are recognized in the Journal of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. In addition, awardees are honored during the Illinois Academy’s Spring Assembly Awards Ceremony, where they receive a commemorative plaque in recognition of their accomplishments.

View past award winners to learn more about the distinguished professionals and students who have been recognized by the Illinois Academy. 

Congratulations to the 2026 Illinois Academy Award Winners! 

Award Nomination Process

The first step in the awards process is the nomination of qualified candidates. To be eligible, nominees must be active or student members of both the Illinois Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (IAND) and the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

Outstanding Dietetics Student Award

Students may be nominated by their dietetics program leadership or by their IAND District. The nominee’s name and email address should be submitted to the IAND Awards Committee at [email protected]. Once received, the Awards Committee will provide the nominee with the application and instructions.

Professional Awards

Nominations for the Recognized Young Dietitian of the Year, Emerging Dietetic Leader, Recognized Nutrition and Dietetic Technician of the Year, and Outstanding Dietitian of the Year may be submitted by an IAND District President or District Awards Chair. The nominee’s name and contact information should be emailed to [email protected]. The IAND Awards Committee will then send the appropriate application materials and instructions directly to the nominee.

Please review the eligibility criteria and application requirements for each award below.

Outstanding Dietitian of the Year Award
Application Deadline: January 15, 2027
Eligibility and Selection Criteria: Click here for more information.

Recognized Young Dietitian of the Year Award
Application Deadline: January 15, 2027
Eligibility and Selection Criteria: Click here for more information.

Emerging Dietetic Leader Award
Application Deadline: January 15, 2027
Eligibility and Selection Criteria: Click here for more information.

Recognized Nutrition and Dietetic Technician of the Year Award
Application Deadline: January 15, 2027
Eligibility and Selection Criteria: Click here for more information.

Outstanding Dietetics Student Awards
Application Deadline: December 15, 2026
Eligibility and Selection Criteria: Click here for more information.