Liz Zorzanello Emery, EdD, MS, RD, CNSC, LDN
Dr. Emery has had a lifelong interest in nutrition and a long history of teaching and clinical practice as a Registered Dietitian and Certified Nutrition Support Clinician in Philadelphia.
She has mentored many students who have gone on to practice in the field of nutrition.
“As an integral part of our daily lives and a key component of all healthcare disciplines, nutrition science provides the foundation for optimal human health and well-being. In this framework, we seek to nourish mind and body to promote health, wellness, intellectual development, and equity in these basic rights.”
Education
- EdD, Nebraska Methodist College (Education and Leadership in Healthcare), 2020
- M.S., St. Joseph’s University (Health Education), 1992
- B.S., Drexel University (Foods and Nutrition), 1985
Innovation
Dr. Emery uses virtual and augmented reality to help students “see inside” the human body. Combining this novel technology with tried-and-true instructional design practices, she has demonstrated significant increases in knowledge and confidence for nutrition-focused physical assessment in her students.
Social Justice
Disparities related to systemic social injustices have profound effects on nutrition and health. Issues like food and housing insecurity directly and negatively affect our patients. Dr. Emery brings her experience working in urban environments to her classroom to sensitize future clinicians to real-life challenges experienced in the community, and encourages a strength-based, patient-centered approach to care. All individuals should have the opportunity to achieve optimal health and pursue their best lives, ultimately bringing their unique talents and gifts to the world.
Teaching
Dr. Emery is the Course Director for NUTR 6040, Advanced Micronutrient Metabolism, and NUTR 6030/6050, Advanced Medical Nutrition Therapy I & II.
Before teaching in our asynchronous online MS in Nutrition Science, Dr. Emery directed the Coordinated Program in Dietetics at La Salle University where she taught the advanced Medical Nutrition Therapy practicum courses online, in the classroom, and in the field.
Opportunities to Learn and Collaborate at Penn Nursing
Dr. Emery also serves as Clinical Educator and Practice Specialist in the Clinical Nutrition Support Service at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, where she directs professional education and development, maintains clinical practice guidelines, and serves as a resource for the department.
Selected Career Highlights
- 2022 Recognized as 1 of 10 RDs Who Are Making a Difference in the Profession Nationally, Today’s Dietitian magazine
- 2020 E. Neige Todhunter Memorial Doctoral Fellowship, Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics
- 2009 Outstanding Dietetics Educator Award, Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics/ Nutrition and Dietetic Educators and Preceptors
- 2009 Outstanding Dietetics Educator, Pennsylvania Dietetic Association
- 2004 Make A Difference Award for Outstanding Mentoring and Teaching, Drexel University
- Director of Dietitians and Past President of the Philadelphia Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition