Isabel A. Quijano Msc, RD, RD/N
Floridaisabel.quijano@gbgnutrition.com
Seasoned Senior Public Health Nutritionist with over 13 years of experience leading WIC operations and improving community nutrition outcomes. Demonstrated expertise in nutrition assessments, patient-centered care, breastfeeding promotion, and staff leadership. Skilled in quality assurance, policy compliance, and partnership building to advance public health goals and sustainable lifestyle changes.
Employment History
Senior Public Health Nutritionist Supervisor
Pasco County Health Department. Hudson, Florida
July 2008 — Present
Lead the daily operations of multiple WIC clinics, providing comprehensive nutrition services to low-income, high-risk, and medically high-risk populations. Conduct VENA-based nutrition assessments, create individualized care plans, and offer counseling and referrals to promote improved dietary behaviors and health outcomes. Work with emphasizes in the integration of evidence-based nutrition education, breastfeeding promotion, and chronic disease prevention within a culturally responsive framework. In addition to overseeing staff performance, ensuring compliance with federal and state regulations, and maintaining quality assurance standards, Serve as preceptor for dietetic interns, supporting their professional growth and strengthening the next generation of public health nutrition professionals.
Public Health Nutritionist Supervisor
Pasco County HealthDepartment. Hudson, Florida
Feb 2011 — Jul 2014
Contributed to the strategic planning and evaluation of WIC program operations to enhance client services and program effectiveness. Monitored performance indicators, guided staff through policy implementation, and coordinated ongoing training initiatives to uphold service quality and compliance. Through close collaboration with multidisciplinary teams, I advanced breastfeeding support programs, fostered a positive and inclusive client environment, and ensured timely reporting and accountability across program sites. My role combined leadership, mentoring, and evaluation to ensure that nutrition services aligned with both organizational goals and community health priorities.
Senior Public Health Nutritionist
Pasco County Health Department. Hudson, Florida
Nov 2009 — Feb 2011
Delivered individual and group counseling for WIC, the Elderly Nutrition Program (ENP), and the Diabetes Self-Management Education (DSME) program. Conducted nutrition risk assessments, evaluated meal plans for compliance and adequacy, and led community-based education campaigns to promote wellness and breastfeeding awareness. Developed targeted educational materials and participated in outreach initiatives designed to improve nutrition literacy and engagement throughout Pasco County.
Nutrition Educator- WIC Program
Pasco County HealthDepartment. Hudson, Florida
Apr 2008 — Nov 2009
Provided individualized and group nutrition education to low-income women, infants, and children at nutritional risk. Certified clients for WIC participation and developed tailored nutrition education plans to promote healthy habits. Supported breastfeeding initiatives, created and evaluated educational materials, and engaged in community outreach. Participated in staff development and in-service training to enhance program delivery and effectiveness.
Nutrition Care Specialist 91M
U.S ARMY. Fort Lee, Virginia
Oct 2003 — Jun 2004
Conducted patient and family interviews to assess dietary status, obtain dietary histories, and develop individualized meal plans. Monitored and documented patients' nutritional intake and dietary compliance, including preferences and changes. Prepared and served regular and medically prescribed diets, adhering to dietary guidelines and instructions from dietitians and physicians to support patient health and recovery.
Food Service Operations 92G
U.S ARMY. Fort Sam Houston, Texas
Aug 2003 — Oct 2003
Performed preliminary food preparation procedures; prepared and cooked menu items listed on the production schedule; applied food protection and sanitation measures in field and Garrison environments; received and stored subsistence items; performed preventive maintenance on garrison and field kitchen equipment.
Internships
Pasco County Dietetic Program
Pasco County Health Department - New Port Richey, Florida
Jun 2014 — Mar 2017
• Completed 1,200 hours of supervised practice under the guidance of registered dietitians, gaining hands-on experience in clinical nutrition, community health, and nutrition education.
• Collaborated with public health professionals to deliver nutrition counseling and education to diverse populations, including children, low-income families, and individuals with chronic diseases.
• Participated in interdisciplinary team meetings, case discussions, and public health campaigns aimed at addressing food insecurity and promoting wellness in the community.
Dietetic Internship
Caracas Medical Center - Caracas, Venezuela
Dec 1999 — Dec 2000
Conducted food intake assessments and evaluated clients’ nutritional status in alignment with health promotion and disease prevention objectives. Assisted in designing and implementing individualized nutrition care plans based on clients’ health conditions and dietary needs. Provided education to support disease prevention and encourage healthier lifestyle habits.
Education
Master of Science Applied Nutrition
Northeastern University - Boston, MA
Jan 2013
Didactic Program in Dietetics
Kansas State University - Manhattan, Kansas
May 2007
Bachelor of Science Nutrition and Dietetics
Central University ofVenezuela - Caracas, Venezuela
Mar 2000