Datta honored with 2025 Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Medallion Award

AMES, Iowa – In a full-circle moment for Iowa State University clinical associate professor of dietetics, Mridul Datta was honored with the prestigious 2025 Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Medallion Award.

Datta received the award at the Academy’s annual Food & Nutrition Conference & Expo® (FNCE®), held October in Nashville, Tennessee. An Academy member for over 30 years, Datta got her start a few hours away from Nashville at East Tennessee State University.

“My dietetics journey began in Tennessee with phenomenal educators and mentors,” said Datta. “Their faith in me let me soar higher than I thought possible.”

Datta is pictured in the top left along with the other honorees from the 2025 ceremony.

The Medallion Award is one of the highest honors bestowed by the Academy, celebrating members who exemplify the profession’s highest standards through leadership, service and dedication.

Datta has been actively involved in dietetics both at the state level and nationally. She chaired the Council on Professional Issues with the Iowa Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and mentors new Iowa Registered Dietitians. She served as the chair of the Oncology Nutrition Dietetics Practice Group and the inaugural chair of the Oncology Nutrition practice group’s Education Committee. She is also engaged in the Preceptor and Professional development committees of the Nutrition and Dietetics Educators and Preceptors group within the Academy.

“I am deeply honored to receive the Medallion Award from the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics,” said Datta. “This recognition is a testament not only to my dietetics journey but also to the mentors, colleagues, and communities who have inspired, supported, and challenged me along the way.”

The Medallion Award has been given annually since 1976 to Academy members who have shown dedication to the profession through active participation, leadership, and service to others in nutrition and allied health fields. Recipients are selected based on their contributions to the profession, personal characteristics such as integrity and inspiration, and unique experiences that enrich the field.

“I am grateful to be part of a profession that transforms lives every day, and I look forward to continued collaborations and meaningful contributions to advance the dietetics profession,” said Datta.

Her leadership and advocacy have helped advance the profession, inspire future practitioners, and promote the role of registered dietitian nutritionists. Datta was nominated for the Medallion award by the Iowa Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

Learn more about the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and the 2025 National Honors and Awards Recipients.