ST. LOUIS — The Council for Responsible Nutrition (CRN) and Radicle Science have named Deshanie Rai, Ph.D., vice president of global science, regulatory and advocacy at OmniActive Health Technologies, as the 2025 Annette Dickinson Trailblazer Award honoree. The annual recognition celebrates exceptional leadership, scientific innovation and advocacy advancing the dietary supplement and health products industry.
Rai, who also serves as an adjunct professor at Tufts University, has been recognized for her pioneering work in translating rigorous science into practical applications that support consumer self-care. Her global contributions span multiple therapeutic areas—including gastrointestinal health, the microbiome, eye health, women’s health and pediatric allergy management—while ensuring product integrity and regulatory compliance.
“I am both humbled and extremely grateful to be selected as the Annette Dickinson Trailblazer Award honoree,” said Dr. Rai. “This recognition is a tribute to the many colleagues who have guided me as I blazed my way through this journey. It inspires me to keep pushing boundaries to advocate science that makes a difference, and to lead with courage and purpose.”
Rai’s impact extends beyond product innovation to include mobilizing partnerships across industry and academia to advance science-based policy, including initiatives championing nutrition’s role in eye health across the lifespan. Known as a mentor and advocate for professional development, Rai has helped shape a generation of health science professionals.
“The CRN member community’s selection of Dr. Rai recognizes not only her technical and scientific achievements, but her commitment to lifting up others and amplifying the value of an array of disciplines—science, regulatory, innovation, advocacy, marketing—to deliver meaningful health improvements,” said Gretchen Powers, CRN vice president of marketing and member experience.
“Dr. Rai exemplifies what the Annette Dickinson Trailblazer Award stands for—brave leadership, breakthrough science and lasting impact,” added Pelin Thorogood, Radicle Science co-founder and executive chair. “Her work shows that when innovation meets purpose, consumers gain not only better products, but greater trust in what they use.”
In a gesture reflecting her dedication to advancing the field, Dr. Rai has donated her award funds to the CRN and American Society for Nutrition Foundation (ASNF) Program for Scholars (CAPS) that provides complimentary registrations for the association’s Science in Session event.
