National Nutrition Month: Q&A with Dylis-Judith Godson
To celebrate National Nutrition Month, the registered dietitian nutritionists who recently joined UNT Health answered five questions about their own journeys in nutrition and hopes for the nascent program.
Registered Dietitian Nutritionists are the food and nutrition experts credentialed by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. In 2026, UNT Health will welcome its first cohort of 30 students into our clinical nutrition program.
Dylis-Judith Godson, PhD, RDN, LDN
Assistant Professor
What inspired you to join the UNT Health community?
I was drawn to UNT Health because of its strong focus on preparing future health professionals to serve diverse communities. As someone deeply committed to chronic disease prevention and an advocate for culturally sensitive/ appropriate nutrition care, I wanted to be part of an institution where teaching and community impact are central to the mission.
What part of your work are you most passionate about?
I am most passionate about teaching and mentoring future health professionals. I find it deeply rewarding to help students move beyond memorization and learn how to apply nutrition science to real-world health challenges.
How do you hope to contribute to our students and the broader community?
For students, I hope to contribute by creating a learning environment that is both rigorous and supportive. I want them to feel challenged intellectually while also feeling seen and supported. Through meaningful assignments, practical skill-building and thoughtful feedback, my goal is to prepare graduates who are confident in their ability to analyze evidence, communicate clearly and practice with integrity.
For the broader community, I hope to contribute through service, outreach and partnerships that translate nutrition science into practical, culturally relevant strategies. National Nutrition Month is a timely reminder that our responsibility as educators extends beyond the classroom. Our work should strengthen families, inform communities and promote healthier lives across Texas.
What experiences have shaped your approach to working in higher education?
My early public health outreach work in Ghana shaped my belief that education is a powerful tool for empowerment. Leading community health campaigns and mentoring peers showed me that knowledge must be accessible, relevant and grounded in empathy to truly make an impact.
Teaching and mentoring in both Ghana and the United States further shaped my approach. Working with students from diverse cultural and academic backgrounds reinforced my commitment to inclusive learning environments where curiosity is encouraged and dialogue is valued.
What are you most excited to explore or accomplish in your first year here?
I am especially excited to welcome the first cohort into the new MSCN program this fall and help shape a strong foundation for their graduate experience. I look forward to supporting them as they strengthen their clinical reasoning, apply evidence to practice and grow in confidence as future nutrition professionals. Being part of their journey from the very beginning is something I truly value.
Learn more about our faculty and the Master of Science in Clinical Nutrition.