Application Deadline: April 17, 2026

1. PURPOSE
   1. The purpose of this award is to recognize a DIFM member whose contributions over their lifetime have advanced the principles and practices of integrative and functional medicine and nutrition. This award will honor one who has “made a difference” in education and professional development, furthered professional opportunities and advancement for nutrition and dietetics practitioners and has demonstrated excellence as evidenced by work that is innovative, creative, and recognized as exemplary by professional peers.
   2. $1500 and free lifetime DIFM membership awarded to chosen recipient.
2. ELIGIBILITY AND REQUIRED CRITERIA
   All active members in good standing with the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and DIFM DPG are eligible. Exempt members include the following: previous winners of the Lifetime Achievement Award. Required criteria include the following:
   
   
   1. Academy member for a minimum of 20 years
   2. DIFM member for a minimum of 10 years
   3. RDN for minimum of 20 years
   4. Two professional letters of recommendation
   5. Has made a “lifetime” of unique contributions to the practice of integrative and functional nutrition
   6. Has continuously supported the advancement of dietetic professionals practicing integrative and functional medical nutrition therapy (IFMNT) by acting as a clinician, educator, mentor, preceptor, CPE presenter and author/editor, or through volunteerism/public service
   7. Has provided leadership and service to DIFM, the Academy, and other professional nutrition organizations
      
      
3. OPTIONAL CRITERIA
   1. Founding member of NCC/DIFM
   2. Research contributor (completed work)
   3. Media contributor
   4. Advanced education degree or credential/certification in integrative/functional nutrition
   5. Fellow of the Academy
   6. Professional awards
      
      
4. PROCEDURES AND INSTRUCTIONS
   1. Nominations for the Lifetime Achievement Award can be submitted by any member of DIFM. Members are encouraged to nominate qualified peers and/or self-nominate.
   2. Whether nominating a student or self-nominating, the following documents must be submitted for the nominee to the Nominating Committee by April 17, 2026:
      • Award application form + biographical information form
      • Curriculum vitae (CV)
      • 2 Letters of recommendation
   3. Application documents are reviewed by the Nominating Committee and selection will be made by June 2026. The nominee with the highest score will be selected as the recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award.
   4. The award recipient will be notified by email and announced in the DIFM newsletter, The Integrative RDN, the DIFM Website and social media outlets. Recognition will also be given at DIFM’s annual FNCE events.
      
      
5. TO APPLY OR NOMINATE
   1. Completed applications are accepted through April 17, 2026.
   2. Please submit the
      • Award application Form
      • Biographical information Form
      • Curriculum vitae (CV) (5-page limit)
      • 2 Letters of recommendation

Questions, please contact difmnomcom@gmail.com.

Award Application Form

Biographical Information

Note: The intent of the biographical information is for the candidate to have the opportunity to highlight what they consider your primary contributions to the profession and integrative nutrition.