University recognizes Nettles

Dr. Mary Frances Nettles, director of the National Food Service Management Institute at the University of Southern Mississippi, has been awarded Kansas State University’s 2012 College of Human Ecology Distinguished Research Award. The award annually recognizes a Kansas State University graduate of human ecology who has achieved significant success in research while contributing to the well-being of individuals, families and communities.

She currently leads a team of researchers at Southern Miss who conduct both qualitative and quantitative research projects that address operational issues impacting child nutrition programs.

Nettles received her master of institute management and doctorate in food service and hospitality management from Kansas State, after first graduating from Mississippi State University with a degree in food and nutrition.

Nettles began her career as an assistant director for the dietetics program at the University of Mississippi Medical Center before working with numerous programs including the Mississippi Department of Education, Child Nutrition Programs and National Food Service Management Institute.