by Kylie Avery

Brandon Williams, MD, assistant professor of Surgery, and Sarah Ferguson, MPH, RDN, LDN, Dietetic Internship director, were recently recognized by the Nashville Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (NAND) for their achievements in the field.

Williams received the Iris Award, which recognizes individuals who support the field of nutrition through scientific and technical knowledge. Ferguson received the Outstanding Dietetic Educator Award, which recognizes an exemplary dietetics educator working in the greater Nashville area.

“Dr. Williams is extremely dedicated to training the future dietitians in our program. He assists them as they complete rotations in the Center for Medical and Surgical Weight Loss clinic and even invites them to join him in the operating room to observe surgical weight loss procedures firsthand,” Ferguson said.

“By sharing his expertise and facilitating these experiential learning opportunities, Dr. Williams provides each intern with specialized insights they can take with them as they continue their career.”

Ferguson said of her award recognition, “I’m grateful to be recognized as a leader in the field of dietetics education, and I want to reflect that recognition to our internship preceptor network and educator partners. I’m consistently impressed by the day-in and day-out efforts put forward by the dedicated group of educators I have the honor of working with.”

The mission of NAND is to serve the public through education and to encourage optimal nutrition and health in the community. The award winners who are nominated by their peers and fellow members of the NAND organization are individuals who demonstrate that mission in their daily tasks.

Williams and Ferguson were presented with their awards at the member meeting in April.