Texas Tech University

Lori Kiker: Faculty Welcome

Lori KikerLori Kiker  joins the College of Human Sciences as Nutritional Sciences Instructor and Assistant Director of Dietetic Internship. Lori has over 30 years of experience as a Registered Dietitian Nutritionist and Nutrition Instructor, balancing clinical dietetics and education. In the clinical setting, Lori specializes in eternal nutrition, pediatrics, renal, oncology, and long-term care.

Lori is a returning alumna of the college, with a bachelor's and master's degree in Home Economics, Food and Nutrition. Lori also completed the college's dietetic internship program before later returning to gain her teaching certificate in Family and Consumer Sciences Education.

"In seventh grade, I decided I wanted to be a Home Economics Teacher. Through high school, I narrowed my interest to food and nutrition," Lori said. "In the 1980s, I attended a 2-year college in Nebraska, then came to Texas Tech University to finish my degree."

As she began her journey in the College of Human Sciences, Lori remembers speaking with a friend about her career goals.

"She stated, 'So you want to be a dietitian,' and I said, 'Sure, what is that?' I have never looked back. It has been a very enjoyable and rewarding field."

During her time in the Nutritional Sciences' dietetic program, Lori says a whole new world was opened for her, learning the components of being a Registered Dietitian.

"I was introduced to the healthcare world, which is so fascinating. I loved learning about how food can help control diseases and improve our overall health."

As she returns as an instructor in the program, Lori says she is honored to have the opportunity to give back to the profession she loves by teaching future dietitians.

In her new role, Lori will teach undergraduate courses in Nutrition and Dietetics as well as assisting the Dietetic Internship Director, Shelley Fillipp with the coordination and training of dietetic interns.

Currently, the program has 18 interns across three cities: Lubbock, Amarillo, and the Midland-Odessa area. Lori says there are plans to extend the program to San Angelo, adding four internship spots.

Lori is most looking forward to helping her students learn to love the field of dietetics as much as she does.