In June, a human sciences faculty member at Mississippi State University assumes the leadership of a national accrediting body for dietetic and nutrition professionals.
Charlotte B. Oakley of Bruce will become chair of the 12-member Commission on Accreditation for Dietetics Education, a national body responsible for enforcing collegiate standards for dietetic and nutrition programs.
Currently chair-elect, Oakley is at the midpoint of a three-year term on the commission, which also offers international accreditation to persons in other countries. CADE is an affiliate of the 70,000-member American Dietetic Association.
"There are approximately 600 accredited academic programs in the United States," she explained. "Graduation from an accredited program is the only way an individual can become a registered dietitian in this country."
Oakley holds bachelor's and master's degrees from the University of Mississippi and a doctorate in nutrition from Mississippi State. She joined MSU's School of Human Sciences faculty in 1999.
