New clinical director for growing clinical nutrition MS program
As the Clinical Nutrition MS program celebrates its 25th anniversary, it welcomes a new clinical director at the helm, poised to help guide the program into its next phase of growth.
Tiffany Rutecki, clinical director of the Clinical Nutrition MS program
“I am absolutely delighted to welcome Tiffany Rutecki as the new clinical director of our Clinical Nutrition MS program at the University at Buffalo. With her decade of experience at a Level 1 trauma center, combined with UB's exceptional resources and faculty, we are poised to establish our program as the destination for dietitian training in the state and region,” said Nicole Becklem, MS, RD, director of the Clinical Nutrition MS program.
The program, which boasts a 100% career placement rate within one year of graduation and a remarkable 96% first-time pass rate on the RDN entry-level exam, offers students invaluable hands-on clinical experiences that prepare them to excel in the dynamic field of nutrition and dietetics.
“With enrollment on the rise to the highest numbers in seven years, and a legacy of 25 years of producing exemplary professionals, we are entering a dynamic new era, ready for a decade of unparalleled growth and success,” said Becklem.
Get to know the new clinical director of the Clinical Nutrition MS program, Tiffany Rutecki.
What experience did you have before coming to UB?
Prior to accepting this new role at UB, I taught medical nutrition therapy at Trocaire College for three years and was a clinical dietitian at Erie County Medical Center (ECMC) for the past 10 years. Additionally at ECMC, I was a preceptor for critical care student rotations for four years.
What are you most excited about as you take on this role?
I am most excited to work with and teach aspiring dietitians. I am excited to educate a group of students about a field that I am passionate about. One of my favorite parts of being a clinical dietitian while working at ECMC was teaching students how to actually be a clinician.
What vision do you see for the Clinical Nutrition MS program going forward?
Dietitians are dabbling in more hands on these days. I foresee additional hands-on learning in the class room and applied clinical skills, such as the nutrition-focused physical exam (NFPE). We will also complete anthropometric measurements, taking blood pressures and meal planning to name a few.
What is your go-to delicious (yet nutritious!) meal?
I love eating, but unfortunately these days, time is of the essence. My go-to meals are anything quick and easy. I’d say recently, I’ve been into salsa verde crockpot shredded chicken with vegetables and a side. It’s such a versatile and quick meal. It can be made into tacos, rice bowls, salad toppers and more!