Registered dietitian Brenda J. Ponichtera, is the author of two award-winning cookbooks. The books, Quick & Healthy Recipes and Ideas and Quick & Healthy Volume II, are proof of her philosophy that "healthful eating doesn't have to take a lot of time in the kitchen." The books – which have now sold more than 700,000 copies – clearly fill a need for today's health-conscious, busy cook. A registered dietitian, Ponichtera has extensive experience in nutrition and diabetes counseling. She is an active member of the American Dietetic Association and the American Diabetes Association. Brenda is the past Resource and Recognition Director for the Nutrition Entrepreneurs Dietetic Practice Group. A graduate of Framingham State College, in Massachusetts, she majored in Foods and Nutrition, and received a Bachelor of Science in Education. She completed a dietetic internship in Seattle, Washington at Harborview Medical Center, Swedish Hospital, and Children's Orthopedic Hospital. As a medical professional and teacher, Brenda has specialized in helping people develop healthful, lifelong eating habits. Ponichtera and her husband, Ken, live in The Dalles, Oregon. Their two sons, Kevin and Kyle, reside in Maui where they are pursuing a career in windsurfing.

American Dietetic Association - Mary Abbott Hess Award, Year 2000

Winner - 1997 Benjamin Franklin Award for Excellence and Innovation in Marketing

Benjamin Franklin Award for Excellence and Innovation in Marketing – Finalist, 1994

Benjamin Franklin Award for Excellence and Innovation in Marketing – Finalist, 1992

Mid-Columbia Home Economics Association, Certificate of Award for Radio Program participation, 1982

Distinguished Leadership Award, March of Dimes, 1979

Oregon’s "Recognized Young Dietitian of the Year", 1975