Tabbetha Lopez

Dr. Tabbetha Lopez is a Visiting Assistant Professor and Dietetic Internship Director in the Department of Human Sciences at Sam Houston State University (SHSU), within the College of Health Sciences. She holds a PhD in Kinesiology with a focus on Obesity from the University of Houston, along with a BS in Biology/Biochemistry and Nutrition. Her professional background includes over five years of clinical, outpatient, and bariatric dietitian experience, alongside NASM certification in personal training (Performance Enhancement, Corrective Exercise, and Inclusive Fitness). Formerly a Houston Texans Cheerleader, she combines athletic expertise with clinical practice to support patients' goal-oriented strategies. At SHSU, she emphasizes nutrition and physical activity education for students, leveraging her NSF-funded Future Faculty Fellowship training.

Education:

• PhD in Kinesiology (Obesity focus), University of Houston
• BS in Biology/Biochemistry and Nutrition, University of Houston

Research interests center on the intersection of nutrition, physical activity, and obesity management. Her clinical work spans diverse patient populations, with specialization in bariatric dietary interventions. She advocates for personalized strategies to achieve health goals, informed by both academic research and hands-on patient care.

Professional Awards:

• National Science Foundation Future Faculty Fellow

Advising & Leadership:

• Directs SHSU’s Dietetic Internship Program
• Mentors students in applying nutrition and kinesiology principles

Labs/Teams: Integral to the Department of Human Sciences’ academic and clinical training initiatives through her internship director role.