To strengthen outreach, increase impact, and enhance collaboration across the federation, the National Dairy Council (NDC) established working groups that include state and regional dairy organizations. Lisa McCann represents Midwest Dairy on the Webinar Working Group, which includes representatives from 12 other states and regions. The group is led by Megan Masiano, MS, RD, Senior Director of Nutrition and Regulatory Affairs.
The group’s goal is to develop and deliver two high-impact, resource-efficient continuing education webinars aligned with the 2026 Unified Plan. By combining NDC’s national promotional platforms with state and regional networks, the initiative aims to increase attendance and engagement among a broader audience of health professionals, organizations, and stakeholders.
The first webinar, held on June 11, was titled “Beyond the Headlines: Navigating Dairy Foods in the 2025-2030 Dietary Guidelines for Americans.” Featured speakers included Dr. Tom Brenna from the University of Texas at Austin and Toby Amidor, MS, RD, a media and communications expert and NDC Ambassador. Participants described the webinar as timely, relevant, evidence-based, and practical, themes that were frequently highlighted in survey feedback.
Results from this webinar included:
- 5,290 webinar registrants
- 918 from Midwest Dairy region
- 2,807 live attendees
- Strong reach among Gen X and Millennial RD’s
- 45-point growth in confidence in communication and education about the Dietary Guidelines
- 8.5-point lift in agreement that dairy foods can be a part of a healthy dietary pattern
- 17-point increase in confidence in the health benefits of dairy foods across all fat levels
- 2,422 registrants opted into the Dairy Nourishes Network
The August meeting included a robust discussion of speakers, state and regional relationships, messaging, and audience insights. The Quarter 4 webinar, planned for early December, will focus on child health. Stay tuned for results on those!