2024 Programs of Excellence Series - Nutrition
Includes a Live Web Event on 01/22/2025 at 3:00 PM (EST)
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Every year NCOA’s National Institute of Senior Centers honors outstanding efforts made by senior centers across the nation to offer innovative, creative, and impactful programs for older adults. Each program is proof of the important work that happens at senior centers. And these programs serve as models for senior center staff across the country to implement in their communities. Join us for our Programs of Excellence webinar series where we highlight each category with a presentation by a subject matter expert and the winning programs.
Dianne Stone
Associate Director of Network Development and Engagement, Modernizing Senior Centers Resource Center and NISC
National Council on Aging
Dianne Stone has more than 20 years of experience with senior centers and aging issues, primarily as the Director of the Newington Senior and Disabled Center in Newington, Connecticut. Stone has also worked, volunteered, and held leadership positions with a variety of organizations in Connecticut, including Connecticut AgeWell Collaborative, the ADA Coalition of Connecticut, Connecticut Medicaid Oversight Council, and the Commission on Women, Children, Seniors, Equity and Opportunity. She joined NCOA in January 2022, as a member of the Center for Healthy Aging, where she is primarily focused on supporting senior centers throughout the country through the ACL-funded Modernizing Senior Centers Resource Center and NISC.
Natalie Zellner
Senior Director of Campaign Strategy and Engagement
National Council on Aging
Natalie serves as the Senior Director of Campaign Strategy and Engagement. She is a campaign, government relations and public affairs professional with over 20 years of experience in creating effective relationships and leading successful initiatives at the federal, state, and local levels. Natalie brings extensive experience in public policy development and analysis, and she is skilled in creating innovative and practical solutions that satisfy multiple stakeholders. She is a veteran candidate and issue campaign director, leading successful national and state initiatives. She also practiced law with a major national law firm. Known for building strategic coalitions that secure government funding and legislative change, Natalie has worked across various industries, including Aging, Housing, Public Health, Community Banking, and Public Safety. She is adept at quickly learning about new issues and identifying solutions.
Pamela Rodriguez, MDS, RDN, LD
Project Manager
San Antonio Senior Services
Project Mgr. and Registered Dietitian for the HEAL Program. Pamela has worked with the Senior Services division for the past 7 years. During this time she has worked to rebrand the congregate meal program and enhance nutrition education curriculum. Pamela is a graduate of the UTSA Coordinated program in Dietetics. She holds a Bachelors of Business Administration, Bachelors of Science and Masters in Dietetic Studies.
Lori Cohen Radice
General Manager
Hillsborough County Department of Aging Services
Lori Radice’s 33 years of service has had a long and impactful career in services for seniors, contributing to various aspects of senior care and community engagement. Her experience spans direct service provision, adult day care, congregate and home delivered meals management, policy writing, training, event facilitator, and grant oversight, showcasing a well-rounded expertise in senior program administration. Notably, her role in pioneering Hillsborough County’s first active seniors-only senior center, and leading it to national accreditation, highlights her leadership and commitment to enhancing senior services at a local level. This accomplishment speaks to her innovation and ability to drive quality improvements in senior care programs.
Brian Taylor
Senior Program Coordinator/Registered Dietitian
Hillsborough County Department of Aging Services, Nutrition & Wellness Section
Brian has over 20 years of experience in the nutrition field, and the past seven years, directly with Hillsborough County. He is a dedicated and experienced registered dietitian and has a passion for helping individuals achieve optimal health through personalized nutrition and education programs. With a background in clinical nutrition and fitness, Brian specializes in weight management, chronic disease prevention, and geriatric nutrition.
His approach emphasizes balanced eating habits, mindful portion control, and sustainable lifestyle changes. Brian is committed to empowering seniors to make informed food choices that align with their unique goals and needs.