Bringing Nutrition into the Classroom
Healthy dining is about more than what’s on the plate. Through BeWell, our health and wellness dining platform, students and campus communities gain valuable insights into healthy eating through live cooking demonstrations, wellness tables, nutrition presentations, and interactive educational events. These experiences help participants understand how everyday food choices can support long-term health and well-being.
St. Mary’s School in Medford, Oregon
Together, Corporate Executive Chef Drew Ward, Corporate Wellness Dietitian Nicole Short MS, RDN and LDN; and Lead Marketing Manager Khyla Dixon, recently introduced students to BeWell offerings through hands-on sampling. Students tasted fall favorites including Pumpkin Baked Oatmeal Bar and Smoky Street Corn Chicken Bowl, with the chicken bowl also featured on the serving line. The experience gave students an opportunity to explore nutritious ingredients in an approachable, flavorful way while building excitement around healthier menu choices.
DME Academy in Daytona Beach, Florida
At DME Academy, where the dining program supports residential students, day students and athletes across multiple sports, nutrition education has become part of the broader student dining experience. The team hosted a wellness table featuring a Smoky Street Corn Chicken Bowl, giving approximately 200 students the opportunity to try the dish while exploring its potential as a future bowl concept.
The experience was complemented by October’s “Protein for Life” educational materials and Fueled sports nutrition handouts, connecting dining choices with the nutritional needs of active students and athletes. Two varieties of Agua Fresca, Strawberry Lemon and Blueberry Orange, added another fresh and engaging component to the activation.
“At DME Academy, the student-athlete experience extends well beyond the classroom and the court or field,” said Seth Brown, President and CEO of DME Academy. “Food is a daily part of how students feel, perform, recover and connect with one another. Elior allows us to provide a dining experience that better reflects the level of care, structure and support we want every student to feel on campus.”
By combining education with tasting, chef interaction and real menu experiences, schools can make wellness more tangible, engaging and relevant to students!
Get to Know Wellness Dietitian Nicole Short!
Nicole is a Registered Dietitian and Certified Personal Trainer with a lifelong passion for nutrition, fitness and helping others feel their best. With a background in exercise science and a master’s degree in sports nutrition, Nicole combines her experience as an athlete with her professional expertise to help individuals create healthy habits that work for real life.
Her philosophy? Start small. Stay consistent. Build habits that last.
Whether you’re looking for support with meal planning, starting a new fitness routine or simply taking the first step toward a healthier lifestyle, Nicole is ready to help you reach your goals.
