Julie’s diverse interests have fostered careers in both business and health care. After studying advertising and marketing at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign, she helped create ad campaigns within the Chicago advertising agency community. Later while raising a family, her curiosity about food’s impact on health prompted her to obtain a master’s degree in nutrition science from the University of Illinois at Chicago. Clinical nutrition rotations at the University of Chicago Medical Center, Presence Health and Shirley Ryan Ability Lab prepared her for work at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital focusing on genetics and weight management. Each experience reinforced her appreciation for the profound connection between nutrition, our digestive system and whole-body health, and inspires her work with Comprehensive Gastrointestinal Health today.

PHILOSOPHY

Julie considers food one of life’s great joys. She also believes in the power of nutrition to transform health. Shifting our diets away from refined, processed foods and toward a variety of colorful, fiber-rich whole foods and lean protein helps lay the foundation for sustained health. An avid cook, Julie is always willing to share simple hacks to make healthy, convenient and delicious meals.

PERSONAL LIFE

As empty nesters, Julie and her husband enjoy frequent visits from their two city-dwelling daughters. Julie loves finding any opportunity to read, walk or head to the gym. Whipping up delicious and nutritious meals for family and friends is always in the mix. Her “bucket list” consists mainly of travel and adding a golden retriever to the household.