Kathleen "Katie" Harding-Mendez
Registered Dietitian
Puyallup,Washington
Summary
Registered Dietitian with 20 years of experience developing personalized nutritional plans that positively affect patient outcomes. Highly qualified and well-trained professional with detailed approach. Diligent in staying updated on latest medical research and nutrition solutions. Dependable expert with proven ability to design health education campaigns and programs to raise awareness of health issues. Experienced in assessing need for health education and developing strategies to promote health and wellness. Skilled in teaching, mentoring and developing relationships with individuals to support health initiatives. Collaborative leader with dedication to partnering with coworkers to promote engaged, empowering work culture. Documented strengths in building and maintaining relationships with diverse range of stakeholders in dynamic, fast-paced settings. Detail-oriented team player with strong organizational skills. Successful at managing multiple priorities with a positive attitude. Willingness to take on added responsibilities to meet team goals.
Overview
2027
2027
years of professional experience
1
1
Certificate
Work History
Clinical Dietitian
MultiCare Tacoma General Hospital and Allenmore Hospital
Tacoma, Washington
11.2023 - 01.2026
- Developed and monitored personalized nutrition plans to support health improvement initiatives in a 437-bed hospital.
- Analyzed and established personalized nutrient and energy requirements, addressing specific lifestyle factors, physiological traits, and medical issues.
- Analyzed individual dietary habits and health data to assess malnutrition risk and implement tailored nutritional interventions.
- Assessed patient needs and crafted comprehensive nutrition plans to effectively manage diabetes and accommodate food allergies.
- Monitored patient needs and tolerance levels to effectively modify enteral and parenteral feedings, ensuring optimal nutritional outcomes.
- Tracked patient progress and tailored dietary plans to enhance overall wellness.
- Evaluated patient progress and recorded detailed nutritional data in patient charts to support comprehensive care.
- Delivered comprehensive guidance to patients and families regarding tailored nutrition management approaches to enhance health outcomes.
- Managed electronic medical record systems to meticulously document patient progress, orders, and critical information, enhancing clinical dietitian workflow.
- Acted as a resource for staff and peers, providing expert guidance on clinical dietetics best practices.
- Coordinated efforts with interdisciplinary professionals to enhance patient care quality in various clinical environments.
- Provided expertise on nutrition during interdisciplinary meetings to enhance overall patient care strategies.
- Participated in professional conferences and educational programs to remain informed about advancements in nutrition science.
WIC Foods and Formula Specialist
Washington State Department of Health Office of Nutrition Services
Tumwater, Washington
11.2016 - 11.2021
- Executed strategies for nutrition program implementation, ensuring alignment with public health objectives.
- Exhibited capacity for quick and effective assimilation of new ideas and practices in diverse environments.
- Leveraged creativity and self-motivation to effectively resolve challenging issues.
- Participated in professional development training and played a key role in crafting and delivering communication and training materials to both internal and external audiences.
- Executed all company policies and procedures to consistently produce quality results.
- Developed and implemented targeted outreach campaigns to foster stakeholder engagement and disseminate nutrition resources effectively.
- Demonstrated cultural, ethnic, and gender sensitivity while collaborating with diverse customers and stakeholders.
- Streamlined service processes to optimize stakeholder experience and address issues promptly and effectively.
- Designed and executed presentations aimed at showcasing work and fostering stakeholder engagement.
- Cultivated positive customer experiences by engaging daily with office-level managers and staff, while also collaborating frequently with program participants and relevant stakeholder organizations.
- Systematically gathered and recorded information into database system to enhance data accessibility.
- Developed targeted training materials focused on enhancing staff capabilities and driving productivity improvements.
- Analyzed current operations and established new procedures to improve overall efficiency.
- Monitored and adjusted project plans, timelines, and budgets to align with strategic objectives and deliverables.
- Conducted regular reviews of compliance standards and best practices to maintain regulatory alignment.
- Conducted strategic meetings to formulate and finalize a work plan that identified project scope, timeline, tasks, and necessary personnel for food review completion.
- Contributed to the design and production of educational materials aimed at engaging and informing diverse community audiences.
- Organized and led regular strategy meetings to foster effective communication and teamwork among members.
- Collaborated in crafting a strategic plan that supports and advances long-term organizational aspirations.
- Adapted to diverse work environments, effectively balancing solo tasks and team collaboration.
- Coordinated efforts with multidisciplinary teams to enhance overall program visibility and broaden accessibility.
WIC Breastfeeding Peer Counseling Lead
Community Action Council of Lewis Mason Thurston Counties
Lacey, Washington
12.2010 - 10.2016
- Established and managed WIC Breastfeeding Peer Counseling program, promoting a supportive environment for breastfeeding mothers within the community.
- Achieved effective program policy development by creating training requirements and documenting contacts.
- Enhanced clarity in scope of practice and position descriptions for breastfeeding peer counselors and leads.
- Improved operational efficiency through effective time tracking and strategic use of electronic equipment, including cell phones and laptops.
- Developed initial and continuous training strategies to ensure staff proficiency and alignment with organizational goals.
- Oversaw development and implementation of initiatives to ensure alignment with agency mission and philosophy.
- Identified and connected individuals with essential services through resource promotion.
- Refined knowledge and capabilities by systematically incorporating feedback and addressing self-identified professional growth opportunities.
- Engaged with community organizations to establish and uphold partnerships aimed at promoting health education.
WIC Nutrition Program Director
Community Action Council of Lewis Mason Thurston Counties
Lacey and Shelton, Washington
02.2005 - 10.2016
- Collaborated with cross-functional teams to implement strategic plans aligned with organizational goals.
- Led program development initiatives to enhance community engagement and service delivery.
- Demonstrated compliance and operational excellence, leading to favorable outcomes in state and federal audits.
- Oversaw program operations, fostering a collaborative environment to drive successful project outcomes.
- Analyzed budgetary requirements and developed comprehensive staffing plans, facilitating presentations to chief executive and financial officers for endorsement.
- Organized and refreshed project-related documents to facilitate collaboration and streamline workflows.
- Coordinated staff meetings to review new concepts and ensure participants are informed about program developments and achievements.
- Designed and launched a breastfeeding peer counseling initiative to enhance community support and education on breastfeeding practices.
- Engaged actively in coalition activities to promote women's health awareness and foster strategic partnerships within the community.
- Designed and delivered training sessions aimed at empowering staff with leadership capabilities and career growth opportunities.
- Assessed and documented performance metrics for all staff under supervision during annual evaluations.
WIC Nutrition Program Registered Dietitian Nutritionist
Community Action Council of Lewis Mason Thurston Counties
Lacey, Washington
07.2003 - 10.2016
- Assessed client needs and created personalized nutrition strategies for a WIC program serving 1,800 to 2,500 clients.
- Developed and implemented workshops aimed at enhancing community awareness of nutritional health and healthy eating choices.
- Conducted comprehensive nutritional assessments and formulated tailored nutrition plans for each participant based on health history, medical conditions, and energy requirements.
- Applied participant-centered education methodologies and principles of influence to effectively counsel WIC participants categorized as high nutritional risk.
- Developed tailored approaches for individuals to enhance their understanding and management of nutritional issues.
- Evaluated participant progress and accurately maintained nutritional information within patient records for comprehensive health assessments.
- Facilitated community engagement through the design and delivery of nutrition programs focused on improving dietary choices.
- Developed and facilitated comprehensive nutrition in-services each month for WIC staff, focusing on best practices and updated guidelines.
- Enhanced staff proficiency in motivational interviewing through active participation in WIC Connects training. Achieved improved team performance by providing targeted support and encouragement during skill refinement activities.
Healthy Homes and Common-Sense Gardening Intern
Thurston County Public Health and Social Services
Olympia, Washington
01.2016 - 06.2016
- Conducted thorough data collection and analysis, contributing to the effectiveness of public health initiatives.
- Coordinated efforts with team members to create and execute community outreach programs that foster community relationships.
- Analyzed research findings, organized data into updated spreadsheets, and generated reports to support operational efficiency.
- Facilitated efficient data retrieval by systematically sorting and organizing files, spreadsheets, and reports.
- Provided comprehensive information to customers through various channels, including phone, email, and in-person consultations.
- Collaborated with residents to develop actionable plans aimed at enhancing home health standards.
- Contributed to the formulation of a mission statement that aligns with the goals of the Healthy Homes Program.
- Contributed to workshops and presentations focused on project insights and knowledge acquisition.
- Conducted evaluations of customer needs and feedback to facilitate continuous improvement in products and services.
Therapy Intern
Monarch Children's Justice and Advocacy Center
Lacey, WA
2007 - 2014
- Facilitated recovery for survivors of child sexual abuse and families through two internships from April 2007 to August 2008 and April 2012 to April 2014. Enhanced client engagement by providing tailored support services. Strengthened community partnerships to improve access to essential resources.
- Conducted individual and group therapy sessions to support clients in overcoming emotional and psychological obstacles.
- Developed and maintained supportive therapeutic relationships that encouraged client empowerment and well-being.
- Administered assessments to analyze clients' mental health conditions and develop personalized treatment objectives.
- Facilitated discussions among interdisciplinary team members to create effective and individualized treatment plans.
- Collaborated with clients to design effective coping mechanisms that assist patients in overcoming personal challenges.
- Implemented effective crisis intervention techniques to address clients' urgent needs and ensure their well-being.
- Recorded client progress to assess treatment outcomes and enhance subsequent care strategies.
- Executed strategies to safeguard client confidentiality, ensuring integrity in patient care.
- Engaged with diverse professionals to design personalized treatment strategies for optimal patient outcomes.
Medical and Surgical Weight Loss Dietitian
MultiCare Center for Weight Loss and Wellness
Tacoma, WA
09.2024 - Current
- Developed personalized meal plans and lifestyle strategies based on evidence to assist clients in reaching weight management targets.
- Analyzed health histories and medical conditions to develop personalized nutritional assessments that meet specific energy requirements for each patient.
- Facilitated effective communication and collaboration to build and maintain positive relationships with clients, families, and interdisciplinary team members.
- Delivered comprehensive guidance on dietary practices to enhance patient outcomes in chronic disease management.
- Conducted ongoing nutritional counseling and created personalized meal plans to improve overall patient health.
- Conducted interactive workshops aimed at improving participants' understanding of nutrition and encouraging positive behavior changes.
- Reviewed client progress and refined nutrition strategies to enhance overall effectiveness and compliance.
- Engaged with multidisciplinary healthcare providers to ensure cohesive care plans tailored to patients' weight loss aspirations.
- Guided patients through personalized counseling sessions focused on enhancing nutritional knowledge and promoting healthy lifestyle choices.
Business Owner
RnK Enterprises
Lacey, Washington
02.2020 - Current
- Analyzed customer needs and presented optimal solutions to enhance satisfaction and outcomes.
- Supervised budget development, accounting operations, and purchasing activities to ensure financial stability and compliance.
- Designed and launched targeted marketing initiatives aimed at expanding customer base and boosting profit margins.
- Planned and facilitated special events to effectively highlight products and engage potential customers.
- Developed rapport with customers by actively listening and addressing their needs to strengthen relationships.
Education
Master of Public Health - Healthcare Management And Health Policy And Ethics
Creighton University
Omaha, NE05.2017
Master of Arts - Psychology
Chapman University
Orange, CABachelor of Science - Food Science and Human Nutrition
Washington State University
Pullman, WASkills
- Medical nutrition therapy
- Nutritional assessment
- Bariatric nutrition
- Disease management/prevention
- Evidence-based care/advice
- Behavior change techniques
- Electronic medical records and clinical documentation
- Adaptability and flexibility
- Professional demeanor
- Written and verbal Communication
- Teamwork and interdisciplinary collaboration
- Problem-solving and critical thinking
- Organizational skills and task prioritization
Accomplishments
- Completed Commission of Dietetics Registration Certificate of Training in Obesity and in Pediatrics and Adults – October 2023
- Completed Monash University's Low FODMAP Diet for Irritable Bowel Syndrome online training course – October 2023
- Supervised team of 7-10 staff members, working in two clinics.
- Resolved product issue through costumer testing.
- Completed the Assuring Pediatric Nutrition Course – May 2017 and 2018
- Completed Outward Mindset Training – May 2019
- Completed Commission on Dietetic Registration Certificate of Training in Childhood & Adolescent Weight Management - September 2015
- Completed Commission on Dietetic Registration Certificate of Training in Adult Weight Management - November 2015
- Completed Intensive Course in Lactation Management – Completed October 2011
- Attended the National WIC Association's Annual Conference in Portland, OR – May 2011
- Attended the National WIC Association's Nutrition Education and Breastfeeding Conference in San Diego, CA – September 2010
- Attended the National WIC Association's Nutrition Education and Breastfeeding Conference in New Orleans, LA – September 2018
Affiliations
- Member of the National WIC Association – 2008-2021
- Served on the National WIC Association RD Retention Workgroup – 2018-2019
- Member of Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics 2002-Present
- Member of the American Public Health Association - July 2014-2017
- Member of Member of South Sound Breastfeeding Network – January 2011-2020
- Member of the Washington State WIC's Client Services Advisory Committee – April 2011-November 2016
- Member of Thurston County Women's Health Coalition - June 2012-November 2016
- Member of Mason County Healthy Living Work Group - May 2012-November 2016
- Member of Healthy Child Weight Coalition – September 2010-2015
- Served on the Washington State WIC Statewide Education Workgroup February 2004-January 2009
Certification
- Commission on Dietetics Registered Dietitian Nutritionist
- Washington State Certified Dietitian
Timeline
Medical and Surgical Weight Loss Dietitian
MultiCare Center for Weight Loss and Wellness
09.2024 - Current
Clinical Dietitian
MultiCare Tacoma General Hospital and Allenmore Hospital
11.2023 - 01.2026
Business Owner
RnK Enterprises
02.2020 - Current
WIC Foods and Formula Specialist
Washington State Department of Health Office of Nutrition Services
11.2016 - 11.2021
Healthy Homes and Common-Sense Gardening Intern
Thurston County Public Health and Social Services
01.2016 - 06.2016
WIC Breastfeeding Peer Counseling Lead
Community Action Council of Lewis Mason Thurston Counties
12.2010 - 10.2016
WIC Nutrition Program Director
Community Action Council of Lewis Mason Thurston Counties
02.2005 - 10.2016
WIC Nutrition Program Registered Dietitian Nutritionist
Community Action Council of Lewis Mason Thurston Counties
07.2003 - 10.2016
Therapy Intern
Monarch Children's Justice and Advocacy Center
2007 - 2014
Master of Public Health - Healthcare Management And Health Policy And Ethics
Creighton University
Master of Arts - Psychology
Chapman University
Bachelor of Science - Food Science and Human Nutrition
Washington State University
Work Availability
monday
tuesday
wednesday
thursday
friday
saturday
sunday
morning
afternoon
evening
swipe to browse
Quote
Nothing in life is to be feared, it is only to be understood. Now is the time to understand more, so that we may fear less.
Marie Curie