​​​Gena Alltizer was a successful business owner, but a declining economy and family health issues forced her to make changes. Her mother was diagnosed with dementia and diabetes, and her husband needed back surgery. Gena closed her business, and decided she and her family needed to live healthier lives. She researched nutrition and implemented changes in diet and exercise for herself and her family that ultimately improved their health.

Gena is currently a senior majoring in nutrition and food science at California State University, San Bernardino. She serves as the president of the Nutrition Student Association, and is also the student liaison to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics. She volunteers at Loma Linda University Medical Center Murrieta and at a Women, Infants, and Children clinic. Gena plans to become a registered dietitian working with minority populations such as women, prison inmates and the economically disadvantaged. Her long-term goal is to open her own wellness center that will improve the lives of the members of her community through outreach and charitable work.​