Christine Stapell: The Leader Who Built the Foundation of Florida Dietetics

In this episode of The Orange Blossom Trailblazers, we talk with Christine Stapell, one of the most influential leaders in Florida dietetics and the driving force behind some of the organization’s biggest milestones. From helping draft Florida’s very first licensure bill during FAND’s Golden Anniversary year to guiding the association as Executive Director through the pre-internet and early digital eras, Christine played a pivotal role in modernizing communication, expanding the annual symposium, and strengthening the identity of the profession.

She shares candid stories from the early 1980s, hiring the first lobbyist, pushing licensure forward year after year, navigating legislative setbacks, mentoring emerging leaders, and building the symposium into a cornerstone of professional development. Her recollections illuminate what it took to keep the profession moving forward before email, websites, or online advocacy existed.

Tune in to hear how Christine Stapell’s leadership, persistence, and vision helped shape the Florida Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics into the organization it is today.