Dr. Nik Dhurandhar, is a Paul W. Horn Distinguished Professor, Helen Devitt Jones Endowed Chair, Chairperson of the Department of Nutritional Sciences and Associate Dean for Innovation for the College of Health and Human Sciences at Texas Tech University (TTU). He is a past president of The Obesity Society, which is the premier professional organization.  He is Editor-In-Chief of the International Journal of Obesity. He has been involved with obesity treatment and research for over 40 years and has treated over 15,000 patients for obesity using lifestyle therapy as well as medication.  His book, “Dr. Dhurandhar’s Fat Loss Diet” was #1 Best Seller on Amazon India, and the Times of India listed it as one of the 10 most dependable books on weight loss published in 2018.  

Over the years, Dr. Dhurandhar has received numerous prestigious award, research grants and honors. He has published over 180 scientific publications and given over 100 invited talks. He is included in the Stanford University-Elsevier list of top 2% of most highly cited researchers in the world.  Esquire magazine included him in their list of thirty “Best and Brightest Minds in the U.S.” His life and work have been featured by numerous media outlets and documentaries, including Times of India, Indian Express, New York Times, National Geographic, BBC-UK, CNN.

Dr. Dhurandhar recognizes that similar to diabetes or high blood pressure, obesity or excess body weight is a disease that needs serious medical treatment. He spends considerable time understanding the person struggling with body weight issues and develops a plan that will fit the lifestyle, likes and dislikes, health and other challenges.  Such person-first approach helps make weight loss easier by increasing adherence.  

Dr. Marleigh Hefner, PhD, RDN, LD, CNSC

Dr. Marleigh Hefner received her doctoral training from the TTU Nutritional Sciences Department with a focus on nutritional biochemistry and physiology. She graduated in May 2024 before transitioning to her role as assistant professor. She is passionate about dietetics and has practiced as a clinical registered dietitian nutritionist since 2021. She specializes in obesity and nutrition support, including enteral and parenteral nutrition delivery. Marleigh values a client-centered, evidence-based approach to medical nutrition therapy for patients of all ages.Dr. Marleigh Hefner received her doctoral training from the TTU Nutritional Sciences Department with a focus on nutritional biochemistry and physiology. She graduated in May 2024 before transitioning to her role as assistant professor. She is passionate about dietetics and has practiced as a clinical registered dietitian nutritionist since 2021. She specializes in obesity and nutrition support, including enteral and parenteral nutrition delivery. Marleigh values a client-centered, evidence-based approach to medical nutrition therapy for patients of all ages.

Professional Licensing and Certifications:

• 2024 – Certified Nutrition Support Clinician (CNSC), National Board of Nutrition Support Certification
• 2021 – Registered Dietitian Nutritionist (RDN/RD), Commission on Dietetic Registration
• 2021 – Licensed Dietitian Nutritionist (LDN/LD), Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation

Ashley Wilmeth, MS, RDN, LD

Ashley Wilmeth is a dedicated Registered Dietitian Nutritionist with a passion for translating science into practical, personalized nutrition care. With a Master of Science in Nutritional Sciences from Texas Tech University, Ashley brings a well-rounded perspective to her work, combining clinical expertise with a compassionate, whole-person approach.

Her experience spans many realms including clinical nutrition support, rehabilitation nutrition, retail dietetics, gastrointestinal disorders, chronic kidney disease, disordered eating, child and maternal nutrition, cardiovascular health, diabetes, and so much more. Ashley's diverse background has equipped her with the tools to adaptively and insightfully support clients and patients wherever they are on their wellness journey. Whether she’s guiding a complex clinical case or helping someone navigate everyday nutrition choices, Ashley thrives on making nutrition both accessible and effective.

Grounded in evidence and driven by empathy, Ashley is committed to empowering others through education, clarity, and connection—because nutrition isn’t just about what we eat, but how we live. She is passionate about making nutrition both approachable and impactful for everyday life. 

Awards & Accolades:

• Young Dietitian of the Year - 2020 - Texas Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (North Region)
• Excellence in Dietetics - 2022 - H-E-B Wellness Nutrition Services

Dr. Allison Childress, PhD, RDN, CSSD, LD

Dr. Allison Childress RDN, CSSD, LD is an Associate Professor of Practice in the Nutritional Sciences Department, where she teaches and serves as the Director of the Graduate Online Programs. She is a registered and licensed clinical dietitian with over 15 years of experience in patient care specializing in performance (sports) nutrition and supporting women in the perimenopausal phase, addressing both clinical symptoms and lifestyle strategies for healthy aging. Dr. Childress also has extensive experience in diabetes and weight management counseling. She is Board Certified in Sports Dietetics and was also certified by The Cooper Institute as a Personal Trainer. Her research focuses on culinary medicine and performance nutrition.