Lona Sandon

Lona Sandon, PhD, MEd, RDN, LD, FAND is an Associate Professor and Distinguished Teaching Professor in the Department of Clinical Nutrition at UT Southwestern Medical Center, serving as Program Director of the Master of Clinical Nutrition Coordinated Program. She teaches courses in sports nutrition, energy metabolism, and nutrition therapy for hypertension, while co-leading clinical trials on hypertension and kidney stone formation. Affiliated with the School of Health Professions, her roles include elected leadership in the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics House of Delegates (2021-2024) and past national media spokesperson for the Academy (2003-2012).

Education:

• PhD in Health Education Studies (emphasis: higher education/wellness programming) – Texas Woman's University
• MEd in Education Technology – University of Texas, Brownsville
• BS in Nutrition and Dietetics – University of Minnesota
• Dietetic Internship – University of Minnesota Hospital and Clinics

Research focuses on nutrition interventions for autoimmune conditions, hypertension, and aging-related malnutrition, alongside wellness and exercise integration. Her professional certifications include certified fitness instructor (American Council on Exercise) and Level III YogaFit instructor. She actively speaks at national conferences on topics like nutrition for autoimmune diseases and disease prevention.

Awards:

• 2022 Professional Contributions Award (School of Health Professions)
• 2017 Regent's Outstanding Teaching Award (University of Texas)
• 2005 Recognized Young Dietitian of the Year (Texas Academy)
• Fellow of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (FAND)

Her work extends to media engagement, earning multiple Excellence in Media Awards (2006-2007), and interdisciplinary collaboration through clinical trials and program leadership in nutrition education.