VCU news

VCUDine and its partner Aramark have hired Erin Thornton, a registered dietitian, as a full-time resource for VCU students, assisting with individual nutrition needs and dining options on campus.

“We’re thrilled to have Erin [Thornton] join our dining team here at VCU,” said Diane Reynolds, assistant vice president for business services. “Being able to schedule one-on-one consultations with a registered dietitian is an enormous benefit that our students have as dining plan holders. Not only will a consultation with Erin help students understand the dining options available to them, but it will help ensure they are eating a healthy, balanced diet both on and off campus.”

With a special focus on food allergies and dietary restriction assistance, VCUDine is encouraging students to meet with Thornton if they have questions about eating a gluten-free, vegan, vegetarian or Halal diet, or have a specific food allergy.

“Oftentimes, students think they can’t eat healthy on campus, or that there aren’t food options to meet their dietary needs,” Thornton said. “I’m excited to show students just how much they have access to with a dining plan and how they can make our locations work best for them.”

Thornton took an interest in nutrition at an early age. In her first job as a grocery store cashier, Thornton met the store’s dietitian and was inspired by her work. Thornton went on to study nutrition in college, graduating from Penn State University with a bachelor’s degree in nutritional sciences. She completed her dietetic internship at VCU Health and chose to remain in Richmond upon graduating.

Thornton will host “Fit Friday” events in Market 810 at Shafer Court Dining Center throughout the semester. These educational events will feature healthy food samples and give students an opportunity to ask questions. The first Fit Friday will be Jan. 19, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., and will feature a giveaway item from VCU Recreational Sports.

To schedule a time to meet individually with Thornton, students can email her at thornton-erin@aramark.com or call (804) 828-1883. Follow VCUDine on social media for future events that feature the campus dietitian: @VCU_Dining. To view dining plan options for the Spring 2018 semester, visit vcu.campusdish.com.