Dixie Whetsell Honored with National Award for Excellence in Lactation Education

The OHSU-PSU School of Public Health is proud to congratulate Dixie Whetsell, MS, on receiving the 2026 Judith Lauwers Award for Excellence in Lactation Education, presented by the Lactation Education Accreditation and Approval Review Committee (LEAARC).

Dixie Whetsell has made a lasting impact on the School of Public Health, where she taught lactation education courses and served as the Program Director of the Lactation Program for over seven years. Through her leadership and instruction, she has helped prepare and inspire the next generation of lactation consultants, advancing education and practice in this critical area of public health.

The Judith Lauwers Award recognizes individuals who have demonstrated outstanding contributions to lactation education, innovation in teaching, and a commitment to supporting students and the field at large. Dixie’s dedication, expertise, and passion for education exemplify the spirit of this prestigious national honor.

“I wanted to thank LEAARC and those who nominated me for this wonderful award. Judith Lauwers has been one of my lactation idols throughout my lactation career. I used her textbook during my years of teaching and was thrilled to get to work with her through LEAARC. I am so grateful to be one of the recipients of an award named in her honor.” says Dixie.

We are grateful for Dixie’s many contributions to our community and celebrate this well-deserved recognition of her work. Please join us in congratulating Dixie on this remarkable achievement.