Nutritional sciences professor recognized by the American Heart Association

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — Penny M. Kris-Etherton, Evan Pugh Professor and distinguished professor of nutritional sciences at Penn State, has been recognized for her contributions to cardiometabolic health research with the American Heart Association’s 2022 Council on Lifestyle and Cardiometabolic Health Distinguished Achievement Award. She received the triennial award during the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions in November.  

Kris-Etherton is a leading expert in cardiovascular nutrition with over four decades of research. She has served on numerous national committees that have issued dietary guidelines, and as a member of the American Heart Association (AHA) Nutrition Committee she co-authored numerous scientific statements and advisories that have made diet and lifestyle recommendations for the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease. She is past chair of the AHA Council on Lifestyle and Cardiometabolic Health, and a fellow of the American Heart Association, the National Lipid Association (where she served as president), and the American Society for Nutrition. She has published over 500 papers in peer-reviewed literature and has received numerous national awards for her accomplishments and contributions to the profession.  

She received her doctorate in nutrition from the University of Minnesota and was Kathryn McCormick Postdoctoral Scholar at Stanford University. 

“Dr. Kris-Etherton has made several ground-breaking discoveries on the impact of functional foods, lipid metabolism, and dietary patterns on cardiometabolic health. The ripple effects of her scientific impact cannot be understated,” said Meg Bruening, head of Penn State’s Department of Nutritional Sciences.  

“Throughout her illustrative career, she has also emphasized the training of the next generation of scientists,” Bruening continued. “Her former students are themselves leaders in research, industry, and government; all point to the mentorship and training that Dr. Kris-Etherton provides as a primary reason for their success. She could not be more deserving of this prestigious career award from the American Heart Association. Dr. Kris-Etherton is a giant on whose shoulders the field of nutrition stands.” 

Kris-Etherton said she was honored to be recognized by the Council on Lifestyle and Cardiometabolic Health for her research contributions. 

“I have been so fortunate to be at Penn State with wonderful colleagues and amazing students that have contributed to advances made in nutrition and cardiovascular health," she said.