Thiel College names nutrition program director to lead new bachelor’s degree

Posted April 16, 2026Communications and Marketing Department

GREENVILLE, Pa.—Thiel College has appointed Katheryn E. Willey as program director for the College’s new Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and its planned Master of Science program.

Thiel College has recently announced the launch of its new Bachelor of Science in nutrition program, designed to prepare students for careers focused on health promotion, disease prevention, and community wellness.

Willey will oversee curriculum development, program growth and student preparation for careers in dietetics, public health and clinical nutrition. The Bachelor of Science in nutrition is designed to prepare students for careers focused on health promotion, disease prevention and community wellness, with coursework in human biology, food science, metabolism and nutrition across the lifespan. The program also includes experiential learning and internship opportunities to support preparation for professional practice and graduate study.


Willey brings experience in clinical nutrition, higher education and healthcare leadership. She is a registered dietitian, licensed dietitian and certified diabetes care and education specialist with a background in chronic disease management, medical nutrition therapy and telehealth counseling. She is also founder and CEO of Simply Science Nutrition Counseling LLC, a multi-state virtual nutrition practice serving clients across the United States.

An experienced educator, Willey has taught nutrition and health science courses at Youngstown State University and Carrington College. Willey’s work has received national and regional recognition. She was named a Marquis Who’s Who in America honoree for 2025. Her private practice received the Business Rate “Best Of” Award for Nutritionists in Northwestern Pennsylvania in 2025, and she was ranked No. 1 nutritionist in Mercer County, Pa., in January 2026 based on Google review performance.

She is pursuing a Doctor of Education in leadership, health and wellness at the American College of Education, with research focused on improving health outcomes through evidence-based nutrition education.

The addition of a program director supports Thiel College’s continued expansion of health sciences programs and strengthens pathways for students pursuing careers in healthcare systems, community health organizations and public wellness initiatives.

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About Thiel College

Thiel College is an independent college founded in the Lutheran tradition. Located in Greenville, Pa., the College offers 60 majors and minors, 24 varsity sports, and an 11:1 student-faculty ratio. The College is also home to a new Master of Science in speech-language pathology and 2Master of Business Administration. Both master’s degree programs offer innovative and accelerated five-year paths which allow students to earn a bachelor’s and master’s degree in five years. The speech-language pathology program also has an accelerated 15-month graduate-level program. The M.B.A. program also has a 12-month post-graduate program.A dedicated faculty paired with dynamic research and internship opportunities produce numerous graduate school and job placements. Coeducational from its beginnings, the College remains committed to combining tradition with innovation as it celebrates 150 years.



Thiel College
75 College Ave
Greenville, PA 16125
1-800-248-4435