Karen Beathard, PhD, RDN, LD, FAND is an Instructional Associate Professor in the Department of Nutrition and Food Science and manages the Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics Didactic Program in Dietetics at Texas A&M University. She is also Co-collaborator with the RD Mentorship Program and IONSport Research. She is a registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN) with applied industry experience with emphasis in food service management, clinical dietetics and private consultation.

Dr. Beathard is a professional member and volunteer for the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (The Academy), Texas Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (Texas Academy), Texas Academy Foundation, Mid-East Texas Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (METAND), Foodservice Systems Management Education Council, and Behavioral Health Nutrition, Management in Food and Nutritional Systems, Nutrition and Dietetic Educators and Preceptors (NDEP), and Nutrition Entrepreneurs Dietetic Practice Group. She currently serves on the Academy Finance Committee. Past professional positions include Texas Academy President, Texas Academy Foundation Director, METAND President, and The Academy Foundation Fundraising Co­ Chair. Other related positions include current faculty co-advisor for the Nutrition Dietetic Association and Texas Student Dietetic Association, Advisor for the Aggies for Christ on Campus, and past member of the Dairy Max Health and Wellness Board and Walker County American Heart Association Board of Directors.

Her community involvement includes co-facilitating a local eating disorder support group through St. Joseph Healthy Communities since 2006. She has also participated in the Epicures Thanksgiving Feast for the indigent, KBTX Canned Food Drive, American Heart Association Heart Walk, Relay for Life, and Walk Across Texas Program. Dr. Beathard has received many honors including the 2018 Nutrition and Dietetic Educators and Preceptors (NDEP) Western Central Region Outstanding Dietetic Educator Award in the Didactic Program in Dietetics, 20l7 Egg Nutrition Center (ENC) Young Investigator Award, 20l5 College of Agriculture and Life Sciences Critical Thinking Faculty Fellow, 2015 College of Agriculture and Life Sciences Dean’s Outstanding Achievement Student Award for Service, 2013 Texas Academy Outstanding Dietitian of the Year, 2010 Department of Nutrition and Food Science Mentor Award, 2004 Texas Dietetic Association Dietetic Educator of the Year and Fish Camp Namesake at Texas A&M University in 2003.