2026-2027 Board Election Candidates

The Voting Period Closes May 12th, 2026

President-Elect Candidate

Amanda Ford, MS, RDN, LD

Director of Nutrition & Consumer Education

Oklahoma Beef Council

I have been an active member of OKAND for 15 years. I have volunteered in numerous positions and would be honored to now have your vote for President-Elect.

Treasurer-Elect Candidate

Diana Rice, RD, LD

Owner

Tiny Seed Family Nutrition

I am honored to be considered for the role of Treasurer for OKAND. As a registered dietitian with experience in clinical practice, program development, and professional education, I value the important role our state organization plays in supporting dietitians and advancing nutrition practice. Throughout my career, I have prioritized transparency and thoughtful stewardship of financial resources in the projects and organizations I support. If elected Treasurer, I will work to ensure responsible financial management that supports the board’s mission while maintaining clear communication and accountability to our members.

Secretary-Elect Candidate

Sam Swenson, RD, MS

Keith & Associates

I’m a newer RD who wants to give back to the profession and get more involved in our state’s dietetics community. I’m organized, detail-oriented, and genuinely passionate about this field, and I’d be honored to serve OKAND as Secretary.

Member Services Chair-Elect Candidate

Michaela Parrott, MS, RD/LD IBCLC
WIC Community Dietitian
Chickasaw Nation

I am a distinguished healthcare professional and community leader with extensive experience in tribal health and pediatric nutrition. I have been recognized as one of Oklahoma’s “30 Under 30” in Health Care and combine clinical expertise with strategic leadership. My background includes planning nutrition programs, advocating for Indigenous health through national presentations, and holding key board positions within community organizations. I am committed to ensuring this position with OKAND can reflect the full representation of the communities we serve. My goal is to bring a broader range of voices to the table, ensuring our initiatives resonate with every corner of our state collective.

Public Relations Chair-Elect Candidate

Madison Whitworth-Johns MS, RD/LD, CLS, CPT

Chickasaw Nation

WIC Nutrition Education Manager

I am excited to run for Public Relations Chair-Elect because I am passionate about strengthening the visibility and impact of nutrition professionals across Oklahoma. As a Registered Dietitian and current WIC Nutrition Education Manager for the Chickasaw Nation, I have extensive experience creating monthly social media content, developing nutrition education materials, and communicating evidence-based information to diverse populations. My background also includes serving as an OKAND Social Media Chair and participating in multiple Spring Convention committees, which has given me valuable insight into member engagement and outreach. If selected, I hope to build on these experiences by enhancing the Academy’s public relations efforts through expanded social media presence, while promoting initiatives such as National Nutrition Month. I also hope to incorporate clear procedures within the public relations committee to support smooth, seamless transitions from year to year. I look forward to collaborating with board members and learning from current leadership to help elevate our profession and strengthen connections between members, the public, and media partners.

State Policy Representative Jr. Candidate

Sara Tillery MA, RDN, LD

Program Director & Pediatric Counseling

KADDI/ K&A Nutrition

Through my work as an internship director collaborating with preceptors and students, I recognize the critical role public policy plays and the importance of continuing to advocate for the growth and advancement of the dietetics profession.

Public Policy Representative Jr. Candidate

Patti Landers PhD, RDN, LD

Keith & Associates

The legislative process is vitally important at both local, state, and national levels. I want to continue the excellent work done in our state by previous leaders.