Her Story
About Kendra
I began my career in 1978 as a registered dietitian after graduating from an accredited dietetic internship at Walter Reed Army Medical Center, where I served as an officer in the military. After my military service, I chose to complete my master's degree because I felt I desired to have more information on how we developed our practice. I then practiced for some time, on and off, before choosing to complete my doctorate, which I finished in 1993. My academic profession spanned from 1997 to 2023, totaling 26 years in higher education. When I retired, I held the position of school director for health and consumer sciences school and earned the title of Distinguished Professor Emeritus. Even in retirement, I continue to stay active in my field by volunteering for Ascend (the Accreditation Council for Education and Nutritionists), serving the South Dakota Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, and writing papers for professional publications.
Her Interview
Ten minutes with Kendra
01What do you attribute your success to?
I attribute my success to persistence and just setting my goal and persisting. The other thing is making decisions on time. In academia, everything has to be perfect, but sometimes you just have to do it and realize that an 80% solution on time is better than a 100% solution late. You can deliberate over it and deliberate over it, but you have to make a decision. You can get paralyzed because you're analyzing it and analyzing it, and at some point, you have to make a decision. So make a decision and move on, and then live with it. That's what I've learned - persistence and making a decision on time.
02What advice would you give to young women entering your industry?
To be in higher education, you need a terminal degree, whether that's a PhD or a professional doctorate, and I encourage them to just do it. You just have to do it. There are times where you are very busy, and it's hard to juggle everything, but prioritizing what's important to include your time for rest and family, if you have a family. Just prioritize what's important at the time, not forgetting that you have to take care of yourself and your family, even if it takes a little longer to complete your degree. Take advantage of your free time when you have it, and don't worry about it. Free time is what you perceive others have, but don't stress over it.
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