News release prepared by: Jane Marshall, 785-532-1519, jpm2@k-state.edu

Friday, Aug. 19, 2011

FOOD SAFETY SPECIALIST JEANNIE SNEED TO HEAD DEPARTMENT OF HOSPITALITY MANAGEMENT AND DIETETICS

MANHATTAN -- A food safety specialist with the U.S. Department of Agriculture is joining Kansas State University's College of Human Ecology as head of the department of hospitality management and dietetics.

Jeannie Sneed will start her new job Oct. 1. She previously worked with the USDA in Washington, D.C.

Sneed earned a doctorate in food service systems management and organizational behavior at Ohio State University and is a registered dietitian, certified professional-food safety and school nutrition specialist.

Her research has focused on food service safety in assisted living centers and retail establishments.

"Dr. Sneed brings strength to a program whose mission becomes more crucial as Americans, and the global community, seek guidance to assure food safety in schools and restaurants and to better understand the connection between diet and wellness," said Virginia Moxley, dean of the College of Human Ecology.

"Her research expertise will be invaluable as the department expands its emphasis on food safety," Moxley said.

Sneed was director of the School of Family and Consumer Studies at Kent State University in Ohio and a professor at Iowa State University, Oregon State University and the University of Tennessee. She is past editor of the Journal of Child Nutrition & Management and has worked with the extension service in Oklahoma.

In 2007 she received NSF International's Lifetime Achievement Award for Food Safety Education and Research.

"The department's work epitomizes the college motto: In a world focused on things, we focus on people. We look forward to Dr. Sneed's leadership as she helps us keep that focus sharp and vital," Moxley said.

"I am very excited to join the Kansas State University faculty and look forward to building on the outstanding tradition of excellence in the department of hospitality management and dietetics," Sneed said.

Bill Meredith has been acting department head since 2010.