Associate Professor 
M.S., Columbia University, School of Human Nutrition

Phone: (323) 953-4000 ext. 2291
Email: @email

I am a Registered Dietitian with a Master of Science in Human Nutrition from Columbia University and a passion for teaching. I have been involved in many areas of nutrition, including as a corporate wellness coordinator, hospital clinical dietitian, Certified Diabetes Educator, and nutritionist for an international health spa. I believe in diet as a therapeutic measure for health, wellness and disease prevention. As a nutrition professor, I have the opportunity to work with students in the prevention of diseases and conditions. I also integrate craft with nutrition as a professional potter with a line of cookware and tableware. When not teaching and potting, I swim laps, practice yoga and study ballroom dance.

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Phone: (323) 953-4000 ext. 1291
Email: @email

Lecturer

Email: @email

Dr. Bigelow is a passionate educator and has extensive experience in online learning, e-learning, and curriculum development. As a Registered Dietitian (RD) with a background in Nutritional Science, Dr. Bigelow has leveraged his subject matter expertise to create engaging and impactful educational experiences.

Throughout his career, he has designed and delivered a variety of online courses, training programs, and in-person learning experiences across multiple institutions. He is a strong advocate for outcomes-based education and interactive design, ensuring learners achieve their goals through effective knowledge transfer.

Dr. Bigelow has worked in multiple fields of dietetics, including public/community health, food service, clinical nutrition, and education.  He has also served as preceptor in his professional positions for multiple dietetic and dietetic technician internship programs.

Lecturer

Email: @email

Suzanne is a high-energy, registered dietitian nutritionist with a big smile and heart. Her professional background includes managing public health projects and grants; teaching nutrition classes on local campuses; as well as coaching individuals to achieve wellness goals. She is passionate about her position as a positive change agent and listens deeply with her ears, eyes, and heart. 

In her free time, she enjoys doing tai chi gung and cooking healthy meals for family and friends. She loves to travel, read and meditate. Recently, she became certified as a community mindfulness facilitator and provides beginner mindfulness classes for adults. 

Lecturer

Email: @email

Dr. Marisela Montoya is a dedicated educator, leader, and advocate for health equity. Since 2006, she has served as an adjunct instructor at Los Angeles City College, where she has inspired countless students in the fields of nutrition, health sciences, and leadership. Her passion for teaching and mentorship has shaped future professionals, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to excel in their careers.

Outside of teaching, Dr. Montoya is the Executive Director of South Los Angeles Health Projects - The Lundquist Institute for Biomedical Innovation at Harbor-UCLA Medical Center. In this role, she has led transformative initiatives that have strengthened maternal and child health services for underserved communities. Her leadership was instrumental in securing the National WIC Association’s Leadership and Health Equity Champion Agency Award in 2024, recognizing the program’s innovative practices and impact on maternal and child health. Under her guidance, Lundquist WIC received the prestigious WIC Breastfeeding Gold Award of Excellence in 2024 from the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food and Nutrition Service.

Dr. Montoya was most recently honored as a recipient of the Los Angeles County Commission for Women “2025 Women of the Year” Award, “Moving Forward Together: Women Educating and Inspiring Generations.” This award recognizes her tireless advocacy for social and economic change, her role as an exceptional mentor, and her commitment to advancing women’s rights.

A native of Mexico, Dr. Montoya immigrated to West Los Angeles with her parents in 1972. She attended LAUSD and SMMUSD schools before pursuing a career dedicated to Education and community service.

She holds a Bachelor of Science in Dietetics and Food Administration with a minor in Chemistry, a Master’s degree in Family and Consumer Sciences with an emphasis on Education, and a Doctorate in Organizational Leadership. She completed a Dietetic Internship with the honorary title of Summa Cum Laude and is also an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant, further solidifying her expertise in maternal and child health education.

Beyond her professional achievements, she and her husband have three sons, three grandchildren, and two chocolate Labradors. Her unwavering commitment to Education, mentorship, and community health inspires students and professionals alike.