Iowa State University Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition

06/11/2026

From a passion for food to discovering the science behind it, Iowa State grad Peter Baustian turned his interest in the culinary world into a career path in food science.

Through hands-on learning, real-world experiences, and opportunities across campus, Peter found a field that blends creativity, innovation, and problem-solving. Read his full student spotlight to learn more about his Iowa State journey!

🔗 Check out his full story: https://bit.ly/3Sza6M4

06/02/2026

Ruth MacDonald will serve as acting dean of the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences from June 1-July 31, and interim dean beginning August 1.

"Ruth has long been a leader in the college, and will work with students, faculty, staff and stakeholders to steward the college during our leadership transition," said Jason Keith, senior vice president and provost.

MacDonald has served the college in a variety of roles, including associate dean and chair of the department of food science and human nutrition.

Read more about the transition ⬇️

https://www.inside.iastate.edu/article/2026/05/12/leadership-transition-announced-agriculture-and-life-sciences

06/01/2026

We are pleased to welcome Steve Mickelson, interim chair of the Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition!

“Through his research, teaching, service and administrative leadership, Dr. Mickelson brings a uniquely broad perspective that will benefit the Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition and support faculty, staff and students across disciplines,” said Daniel J. Robison, endowed dean’s chair of the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences.

Read more about his experience ⬇️

AMES, Iowa – Steve Mickelson will return from retirement to become the next interim chair of the Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition beginning June 1. Mickelson succeeds Ruth MacDonald, who has been serving in the interim role for […]

05/14/2026

Congratulations to Gracianna Venerable, who has been named College Marshal for the College of Health and Human Sciences. Graduating summa cm laude with a Bachelor of Science in Dietetics and a minor in human development and family studies, she stood out through leadership and service, including her work on campus as a Joyful Eating intern and co-president of the Student Dietetic Association. She will continue her education this fall by pursuing a Master of Clinical Nutrition at the University of Iowa. We're so proud of you, Gracianna!

Read more about the Spring 2026 Graduating Senior Awards: https://bit.ly/4wu9QgS

05/12/2026

A big congratulations to our newly promoted FSHN faculty: Dr. Dawn Bowker, Clinical Professor, Dr. Elizabeth McNeill, Associate Professor with tenure, and Dr. Keith Vorst, Professor. A well deserved celebration for these amazing people!

05/11/2026

Students in our Food Product Development course showcased their creativity at the IGNITE Innovation Showcase last week, serving samples of their handheld street food concepts. From formulating original recipes to designing the packaging, they developed every aspect of their products from start to finish!

04/22/2026

The Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition is proud to recognize two recipients of the 2026 College of Health and Human Sciences awards.

Program assistant Leanne Lauber received the Professional and Scientific Early Achievement in Administration award for her leadership in supporting the Master of Professional Practices in Dietetics program, including admissions, accreditation, and key systems transitions.

Lyndi Buckingham‑Schutt, assistant professor and state extension specialist, was recognized for her early‑career impact in nutrition security and community health, including securing more than $2.7 million in funding and leading statewide extension efforts that expand access to healthy food and physical activity across Iowa.

Congratulations to both! Learn more about these awardees and see the full list of 2026 CHHS honorees: https://bit.ly/4tWeYID

04/05/2026

Know your value and be ready to advocate for it! Join a virtual salary negotiation presentation on Wednesday, April 8, from 12:05 to 12:55 p.m., to learn practical strategies for negotiating pay when you’re offered a job. The session will be held on Webex. Find details and how to join at this link: https://bit.ly/4cosIGb

04/04/2026

Registration is open for two new Cyclone Kitchen Summer Camps on the Iowa State University campus in June. Designed for students entering fourth through seventh grade, the hands-on camps let youth cook in a real teaching kitchen while exploring food, nutrition and healthy living. Campers can choose from Restaurant Week or Inspired Flavors Week. To learn more and register: https://bit.ly/4dnZJTW

03/23/2026

The OneApp Scholarship Application is due March 25 at 11:59 p.m.

Continuing undergraduate students must submit the OneApp each year to be considered for scholarships offered through the College of Health and Human Sciences and for some university-level scholarships. Students who plan to return to Iowa State for any portion of the Fall 2026 or Spring 2027 semesters should complete the OneApp.

Applicants must complete and submit both the General Application and the College of Health and Human Sciences Application. OneApp also matches students with additional scholarships they may qualify for, and most students complete the process in 30 to 60 minutes.

More information and the application are available here: https://bit.ly/4c1KBdG