McDonald’s USA announced today that Dr. Cynthia M. Goody has joined the company as director of nutrition, effective June 1, 2008. In her new role, Goody will oversee all aspects of menu nutrition for McDonald’s 13,800 restaurants in the U.S.

Goody, a registered and licensed dietitian, member of the American Dietetic Association, and former Peace Corps volunteer, will lead McDonald’s U.S. team of food and nutrition professionals to develop plans that align with McDonald’s menu strategy. Working with McDonald’s U.S. executive leadership, menu management, supply chain, suppliers, owner/operators, and staff, Goody will provide nutritional science expertise and oversee the company’s nutritional information development process.

Prior to joining McDonald’s USA, Goody served as a retail and clinical dietitian for HY-VEE Food Stores Inc. where she provided nutritional counseling and developed wellness education programs focused on cardiovascular health, diabetes, food allergies, and weight management.

Since 2003 Goody also has served as a consultant to the American Dietetic Association in the Diabetes Care and Education and Food and Culinary Professionals Practice Groups. Dr. Goody also served as a faculty member for the Culinary Institute of America and the Harvard School of Medicine Continuing Medical Education.

Goody holds Ph.D. and Master’s degrees from The University of Iowa, a Master’s degree in Food Science and Human Nutrition, Family, and Consumer Sciences Education, and a Bachelor’s degree in Food and Nutrition, Dietetics from Iowa State University.