Antony Perry
31 May 2018: Two-time University of Canberra graduate and Michelle Bridges’ dietitian Lisa Donaldson has been appointed the University’s new Dietitian in Residence.
Ms Donaldson brings a wealth of experience to the role, having been a teacher for almost a decade before becoming a dietitian.
Ms Donaldson is currently working as the lead dietitian with Michelle Bridges’ 12 Week Body Transformation program. She also works as a recipe developer and an educator for Michelle Bridges’ company, teaching sporting excellence students how to maintain a healthy diet and lifestyle.
The University of Canberra alumna is a spokesperson for Dietitians Association of Australia and manages her own private practice, FEEDinc.
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Lisa Donaldson has been appointed the University of Canberra's new Dietitian in Residence. Photo: John Masiello
Established in 2015, the Dietitian in Residence program aims to improve the nutritional health and knowledge of the University’s community. Over the next 12 months, Ms Donaldson will hold public lectures and undertake other activities related to healthy eating for staff and students.
“I have a long-running association with the University of Canberra and I am so happy to be back here sharing my expertise with students and staff,” Ms Donaldson said.
“I’m combining my skills as a teacher with my passion for healthy eating and living and it feels great.”
Ms Donaldson studied a Bachelor of Education at the University and graduated in 2000. After working as a teacher for 10 years, she returned to study a Master of Nutrition and Dietetics, which she completed in 2011.
The decision to become a dietitian was born out of her own personal health problems after she was diagnosed with coeliac disease and lactose intolerance. She also suffered from gastrointestinal disturbances and a kidney condition.
Ms Donaldson’s desire to feel better prompted her to retrain.
“I loved my job as a teacher, but my health problems took a toll on me in the classroom,” she said.
“I decided to retrain as a dietitian because I wanted to understand why it was affecting me and how I could live my best life.
“I haven’t looked back since making the change. I love what I do and the lifestyle it allows me to have. It’s also important that I’m able to help others, which I am doing.”
Ms Donaldson takes over the role from Caroline Salisbury, who had held the position since 2015. At the time of Ms Salisbury’s appointment, the role was the first of its kind in Australia.
