2026 Outstanding alumna Nicole Brown is never content to stand still. As a registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN) and certified exercise physiologist, she has built a career spanning more than 38 years helping others develop practical, sustainable ways to promote health and care for their bodies. His work represents a balance of science, experience, and understanding of how people live day to day.
The point of view was early. Born in France, Brown grew up with an appreciation for good food, how to make it, and the role it plays in everyday life. At the same time, running with his father introduced him to endurance and discipline. By age 15, he had completed the Palos Verdes Marathon, an experience that shaped his lifelong commitment to staying active.
At Chico State, where he graduated in 1984 with degrees in chemistry and home economics, Brown found a way to connect his interests in science and health. She continued her education at the University of California, Berkeley, earning a master’s degree in nutrition and preparing for a career that would span clinical care, research, and public health. His work took him from California to Washington, to Germany, and finally to the Washington, DC, metro area.
In 1987, Brown established his private practice, For This Health!where she provides medical nutrition therapy, weight management support, sports nutrition, and occupational health services. He has conducted research on cardiovascular health and weight management, and continues to focus on helping clients make meaningful and lasting changes.
Today, Brown continues to model the lifestyle he promotes. He competes in triathlons, plays tennis, lifts weights, and participates in long-distance fundraisers, maintaining the same goals that have guided him from the start.
What brought you to Chico State?
This is one of my favorite stories. I finished high school early—I went to a big high school in Southern California, and my two older sisters had graduated in three years, so I decided to do the same. At the time, I thought I would major in political science based on my leadership experiences in high school.
I was putting myself through school, so affordability was a big factor. I had been accepted to a school on the East Coast, but without financial support, it wasn’t realistic. Some of my friends were going to Chico State, so I joined them—and it turned out to be one of the best decisions I could have made. My first semester, I took “Basic Nutrition” and loved it! I remember Professor Barbara Kirks-Fische and asked what I needed to pursue in nutrition. He told me that I needed a strong background in math and science, including chemistry, which gave me direction.
I worked hard to make it happen-grants, loans, scholarships, riding my bike everywhere-but Chico gave me an amazing education, strong mentorship, and opportunities that really shaped my path.
What keeps you invested in your field?
What keeps me in this field is how rewarding it is to really connect with people and help them improve their health. Early in my career, I worked at UC Davis Medical Center and led a team of 14 RDNs and 6 dietetic technologists. I truly appreciate the collaboration with my doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and RDN staff. But in hospitals, patients are often there because of acute medical problems, and they’re itching to go home.
In private practice, it is different. People seek me out, and we build relationships over time. I can see someone monthly and then work with them for years. continuity that allows for real change. Whether it’s managing cholesterol, improving blood sugar, or tackling weight issues, you can walk with people as they make meaningful progress.
There is always something new to learn. Nutrition is constantly evolving, and the challenges people face, especially around chronic illness, keep me engaged and motivated to continue to grow in my work.
What mentors or takeaways stand out from your time at Chico State?
The education I received at Chico State was amazing, but what really made the difference were the people. Professors like Barbara Kirks-Fischer, Faye Johnson, and Mina Hector are incredibly supportive and truly invested in their students.
An unforgettable experience was the intersessional course led by Professor Emeritus Faye Johnson. We traveled to the Bay Area and visited a spice company, an airline food service operation, and even a poultry processing facility. It gives us a real understanding of where food comes from and how the industry works. Another important experience was Professor Kirks-Fische filming us while we were doing nutrition consultations and giving us feedback on motivational interviewing techniques. Years later, I continue to use what I learned from him!
Chico State also provided opportunities to explore beyond campus, including research experiences at the National Institutes of Health and connections that broadened my perspective. At the same time, there is a strong sense of community in the program—our student groups are close, and we support each other.
What does being named a Distinguished Alumna mean to you?
To be honest, I was very surprised when I received the letter. It made me pause and reflect on the years since I graduated and everything that happened along the way. I feel incredibly honored and proud to be recognized.
Chico State played a significant role in shaping who I am professionally and personally. It gave me the education, guidance, and confidence to pursue my career and take on new challenges. I continue to do my best to spread the word to current nutrition students, dietetic interns, and newly minted RDNs!
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