Red PaSH Magazine November 2013 | Page 10

Leaders Renaissance Woman Local professor, writer, artist and sociologist shares life adventures with UAB students Localvore (n): a person who is dedicated to supporting their community by aiding its economic well being. With so many wonderful changes happening in Birmingham right now the mission to buy, shop and eat local is reiterated even more. Local author, professor, artist and sociologist, Liza Elliott is an advocate of shopping local. She has even coined a term “ localvore,” which describes a person who is dedicated to supporting their community by aiding its economic well being. “This city thrives on small business,” Liza said. “Lawyers, accountants, artists, grocers and even doctors are entrepreneurs that need the city’s support to keep their doors open.” As a professor at the Sparmam Center of Health at The University of Alabama in Birmingham, Elliott teaches students from around the world. Being a well-traveled spirit herself, visiting Cairo, Egypt, by KANESHIA SIMS Chile and other exotic places, Elliott can truly say Birmingham is a unique and wonderful place to live. As a girl, Elliott grew up in Chicago. While living in Birmingham for around 17 years now, Elliott and her family have grown strong roots in the city. Elliott loves the parks and appreciates the arts that place such a heavy influence in the city. As an art student herself, studying under John Lonergan in Southside, Elliott knows it takes discipline and dedication to prefect your craft. Although teaching and painting may be talents of Elliott, she holds one more--writing. “When I write I’m free,” Liza said with a smile. Working on her fourth book, “30-A Supper Club The Cook Book’ has been her latest project. The release date is spring 2014. -10-