A University of Queensland nutrition expert has been named in The Australian Financial Review and Westpac 100 Women of Influence list for 2014.
Professor Sandra Capra AM from the Centre for Dietetics Research at UQ’s School of Human Movement Studies has been recognised in the Global category for her role in developing international standards of practice for the nutrition and dietetics profession.
Professor Bruce Abernethy, Executive Dean of UQ’s Faculty of Health and Behavioural Sciences, said the recognition was fitting testament to the outstanding work Professor Capra is undertaking.
“Sandra Capra has worked extraordinarily hard over a long period of time to establish and advance the dietetics profession, and secure the central place of nutrition and dietetics within the health care system,” Professor Abernethy said.
Professor Capra said it was a tremendous and unexpected honour to receive this recognition.
“I am really delighted to be recognised as a woman of influence in the global arena where I have been trying to advance the dietetics profession for many years now,” she said.
Professor Capra has made a significant contribution to establishing an international definition of dietetics, minimum educational standards, and has developed dietetics’ codes of ethics and best practice guides, which have been adopted worldwide.
“It has been hugely satisfying to see the profession take such a large leap from where it first started,” she said.
Professor Capra was also recognised for her work in shaping new curricula for dietetics education programs internationally and for mentoring the next generation of dieticians.
“Reviewing and advising international universities on their dietetics curricula means that the industry as a whole remains on the same page,” she said.
"There is a wonderful new generation of academic dieticians, especially in Asia, who are leading change and making great gains. It has been an honour to be part of that development.
“I approach all these situations with the view that it isn’t my role to tell anyone else what to do or how to do it, but rather to use my expertise to help them achieve their goals."
Now in its third year, The Australian Financial Review and Westpac 100 Women of Influence Awards are dedicated to recognising and celebrating bold, influential women across Australia.
For further information please visit, www.100womenofinfluence.com.au.
Media: Faculty of Health and Behavioural Sciences Media and Communications Officer Helen Burdon, +61 7 3365 7436, h.burdon@uq.edu.au
