معرفی
Connie S. Ruiz is an Associate Professor in the Department of Nutrition & Dietetics at Lamar University, where she has served since 1976. As department chair from 1996–2007 and interim chair in 2017, she has led academic and administrative initiatives. Her research focuses on maternal and infant nutrition, childhood obesity, pediatric nutrition, and nutrition in HIV/AIDS patients. She holds a Ph.D. in Nutrition from Texas A&M University, an M.S. in Foods and Nutrition from Kansas State University, and a B.S. in Education from Southwest Texas State University.
Dr. Ruiz has earned numerous teaching awards, including the Phi Kappa Phi Teaching Effectiveness Award (1998) and multiple Lamar University Teaching Excellence Awards. Her service includes roles on the Faculty Senate, University Athletic Advisory Committee, and departmental tenure/promotion committees. She directs Lamar’s Didactic Program in Nutrition and Dietetics (DPND) and teaches courses ranging from introductory nutrition to advanced topics in medical nutrition therapy and cultural foods.
- Education: B.S. Education (SW Texas State), M.S. Foods & Nutrition (Kansas State), Ph.D. Nutrition (Texas A&M)
- Research Highlights: Infant feeding practices, food security, HIV/AIDS nutrition, and dietary acculturation
- Awards: Over 20 years of recognition for teaching excellence and academic leadership
- Service: Extensive committee work at university and departmental levels
Her research publications and presentations address obesity prevention, community nutrition, and interdisciplinary approaches to dietary interventions. She remains committed to advancing nutrition education and improving health outcomes through evidence-based practices.
