The American Society for Nutrition Foundation (ASN Foundation) is pleased to announce the inaugural recipients of the Sylvia Rowe Award for Excellence in Nutrition Science Communications. The new award recognizes individuals whose work has strengthened the quality, credibility, and impact of nutrition science communication.
The 2026 recipients are Carol Haggans, MS, RD, ICF Incorporated, LLC, and Kevin Klatt, PhD, RD, University of Toronto.
Established in 2026, the Sylvia Rowe Award recognizes mid-career professionals who excel in translating complex nutrition science clearly and responsibly for diverse audiences. The award also recognizes individuals who foster constructive, evidence-based dialogue across disciplines, sectors, and perspectives.
The award is named in honor of Sylvia Rowe, a respected leader whose career has helped shape the field of nutrition science communication. She is widely recognized for bringing clarity and integrity to complex scientific issues and for building partnerships across sectors and disciplines. She has also played a leading role in shaping how nutrition science is communicated and how constructive dialogue is fostered within the field.
“Effective communication is critical to ensure that nutrition science informs decisions, policy, practice, and public understanding,” said Paul, M. Coates, PhD, DFASN, Chair, ASN Foundation Board of Trustees. “The Sylvia Rowe Award recognizes individuals who communicate science with accuracy, transparency, and balance. It also recognizes individuals who help people navigate complex and sometimes controversial topics. We are honored to recognize Carol Haggans and Kevin Klatt as the inaugural recipients of this award.”
Carol Haggans, MS, RD, is recognized for her work communicating nutrition science and dietary supplement research. During her career with the National Institutes of Health’s Office of Dietary Supplements, she developed trusted educational resources that translated complex scientific evidence into clear, practical information for health professionals and consumers. Through her writing, public engagement, and mentorship, Haggans has helped improve public understanding of nutrition science and support evidence-based decision-making.
Kevin Klatt, PhD, RD, is recognized for his work communicating nutrition science and policy to a wide range of audiences. Through scholarly publications, media engagement, social media outreach, and professional leadership, he has helped explain complex and sometimes controversial nutrition topics. His work emphasizes evidence-based discussion, transparency, and scientific rigor.
Each recipient receives a $1,500 honorarium, a commemorative plaque, complimentary registration to ASN’s annual meeting, NUTRITION 2026, and formal recognition during the meeting.
The Sylvia Rowe Award was established through the generosity of colleagues, friends, corporate donors, commodity boards, and other supporters who share Rowe’s commitment to advancing science communication and constructive dialogue. The ASN Foundation is building a permanent endowment to sustain the award and support future generations of nutrition science communicators. To date, approximately $60,000 has been raised toward the $100,000 goal, helping lay a strong foundation for the award’s long-term future. The ASN Foundation gratefully acknowledges the Iindividuals and organizations whose support has helped launch this important initiative. Those interested in making a contribution can visit the Sylvia Rowe Award Endowment Fund page or contact Griff Courtney at gcourtney@nutrition.org.
About the ASN Foundation
The American Society for Nutrition Foundation (ASN Foundation) complements and enhances ASN priorities and activities through the dissemination and application of nutrition science and education to improve public health and clinical practice worldwide, and advancing the Society’s role as a global leader in nutrition, health, and wellness. The ASN Foundation’s broad portfolio of activities includes education, awards and scholarships, as well as recognition of lifetime achievement through our renowned Fellows program. The ASN Foundation also raises funds to turn current challenges facing the field into opportunities that support the future. Visit us at nutrition.org/foundation.
