OUR TEAM
Dr. Marianella Herrera, MD, PhD
Co-Founder
Dr. Marianella Herrera is a distinguished physician with a doctorate in nutrition from the Universidad Simón Bolívar in Venezuela and is a prominent figure in nutrition, food, and health. Her extensive expertise is evident through her role as a full-time professor at Framingham University and an invited professor at Simmons University in Massachusetts. Dr. Herrera's remarkable leadership was apparent in her past presidency of the Research Councilof the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics of the United States of America and her presidency of the International Affiliate of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (IAAND). Additionally, she is Chair-Elect of the Latinos and Hispanics at the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. With over 100 scientific articles to her name, Dr.Herrera's research focuses on critical areas such as socialinequities, non-communicable diseases, community nutrition, and the impact of public policies. Her humanitarian contributions extend to her consultancy work with global organizations like the World Food Programme from the United Nations. Dr. Herrera's wealth of experience also encompasses delivering compelling speeches at national and international conferences.
Dr. Virgnia Tijerina Walls, PhD, MS, LN
Co-Founder
Dr. Maria Virginia Tijerina Walls is a Mexican dietitian with clinical, educational, research, and
public policy experience. She earned an MS in Science from The University of Oklahoma and a doctorate in Sociomedical Science at the School of Medicine at the Universidad Nacional Autonoma de Mexico. Dr. Tijerina Walls has been a professor at the undergraduate and graduate levels. She was the communication manager at the Mexican Observatory of Noncommunicable Diseases (OMENT) and has collaborated as a consultant and researcher for public and private organizations. Dr. Tijerina Walls has demonstrated her leadership skills as President of the (IAAND) International
Affiliate of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and Chair of LAHIDAN (Latinos and Hispanics of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics) of the United States of America. She is the LAHIDAN Delegate at the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics House of Delegates.
Dr. Tijerina Walls' international experience proves her global perspective and adaptability. She has been a member of boards of nutrition associations in Mexico and the United States.