Olivia Batryn: Advocating for Wellness, One Meal at a Time
Salem, MA – At the heart of BGβ’s dining services is Olivia Batryn. A registered dietitian with Sodexo, Olivia plays a vital role in ensuring that all students have safe and nutritious food options. In just a year and a half at Salem State, Olivia has made a significant impact on campus by promoting health and wellness, connecting with students, and championing the importance of nutrition.
Olivia’s position is as dynamic as it is rewarding. “I get to meet and interact with so many different people—students, staff, faculty, and even the kitchen teams.” Her role involves collaborating with various departments, including athletics, wellness, and sustainability, to host events, provide nutritional education, and offer support to students. She works closely with the dining management team to create allergy-friendly meals and initiatives that support students' health and wellness goals.
One of Olivia’s proudest accomplishments has been her team’s commitment to listening to student requests. Whether it's adding new food items to the menu or creating the Simple Zone pantry—offering convenient, allergy-friendly meals for students on the go—Olivia is dedicated to making sure students feel heard and safe when it comes to their food. “The Simple Zone pantry was a large request from students, and we were thrilled to bring it to life,” she says.
Beyond the food on the plate, Olivia’s work extends into the fitness and wellness spaces on campus. She is particularly proud of her monthly events at Gassett Fitness Center, where she promotes the importance of nutrition and physical fitness to students. “Any time I can teach a student something new and helpful to them, I feel accomplished,” Olivia says, reflecting on her deep passion for both education and wellness.
When she’s not working to promote health and wellness at Salem State, Olivia stays active herself. Whether it’s hiking, biking, yoga, barre, Pilates, or running, she’s always up for an adventure. She loves exploring new places, especially when she’s able to do so with friends and family. “Traveling is really important to me,” she says. “I love experiencing new places in the world and creating lasting memories with the people I care about.”
Olivia’s commitment to food allergies and nutrition extends beyond her professional work. With a niece and nephew who both have food allergies, Olivia is especially passionate about using her expertise to support her family. “Having this knowledge allows me to be a good support system for them and my sister,” she says.
As a registered dietitian with a heart for helping others, Olivia Batryn is more than just a resource for students at Salem State—she’s a champion for wellness both in the dining hall and beyond. Her passion for promoting health and making a difference in students’ lives is truly inspiring, and her door is always open for anyone in need of guidance, support, or just a little advice on how to live a healthier life.