Chair

Caitlin Benda

Caitlin Benda has been a registered dietitian for over 10 years and has spent the majority of her career supporting the nutrition needs of individuals diagnosed with cancer in the radiation, medical, and surgical oncology settings. Having always been fascinated by the relationship between food and behavior, she completed bachelors’ degrees in both psychology and nutrition/dietetics in 2007. After doing so, she went on to obtain her master’s degree in nutrition from Tufts University while also completing her dietetic internship at Tufts Medical Center. She is currently working as an Oncology Dietitian Clinical Specialist with Life with Cancer at the Inova Schar Cancer Institute in Fairfax, VA. Her primary interests in cancer nutrition include GI malignancies, head and neck cancer, and nutrition support.

Caitlin has been an active member of the ON DPG since first joining in 2015, having served both as Treasurer (2015-2017) and Public Content Manager (2017-2018).

Chair-elect

Renee Stubbins

Renee Stubbins grew up in Houston, Texas and received her bachelor’s in science and her PhD in Nutrition Biochemistry and Cancer Metabolism from the University of Texas at Austin. Renee is a senior oncology dietitian for Houston Methodist Cancer Center and is a member of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and the Oncology Nutrition Practice group. Renee’s research interests include utilizing medical nutrition therapy throughout the cancer care process and using nature to address nutrition barriers (pain and anxiety) to improve patient’s quality of life.

Past Chair

Alice Bender

Alice Bender translates the science of cancer prevention into practical advice for consumers and healthcare professionals. As AICR’s spokesperson, she keeps the public informed on cancer-preventive lifestyle choices through AICR’s education programs, media appearances and online communication. Ms. Bender works with health care providers, offering research updates, educational materials and programs to help patients and clients lower their cancer risk.

Prior to joining AICR in 2009, she provided clinical and health promotion services at Stanford University and the University of Georgia. Alice earned a Master’s Degree in Nutrition and Public Health from Columbia University Teachers College and has been active in leadership in the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics state and local affiliates.