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Launching Performance Circle: A New Frontier in Student Nutrition

Chartwells Higher Education has recently made headlines by introducing Performance Circle, an innovative nutrition and education program tailored specifically for students engaged in sports. As a premier leader in campus food service, Chartwells aims to enhance the health and athletic performance of student-athletes through a well-balanced diet that is deeply informed by the science of sports nutrition.

Understanding the Needs of Student-Athletes

The impetus for this program comes from the increasing demand among college students for nutrition catered to athletic needs. According to a survey released in the 2025 Campus Dining Index, there has been an impressive 61% year-over-year increase in students expressing interest in meals designed for performance. Such data underscores the unique challenges faced by student-athletes who often navigate dietary choices for the first time, aiming to fuel their bodies for optimum performance.

The Essentials of Performance Circle

Performance Circle is designed to meet these unique requirements. The initiative offers:

• - Balanced Meals: Created collaboratively with Registered Dietitian Nutritionists, the menus are curated to include nutrient-rich options suitable for pre and post-workout nutrition, focusing particularly on key macronutrients such as proteins and carbohydrates.
• - Educational Resources: Central to the program is its focus on education. Student-athletes will receive comprehensive guidance on what constitutes optimal nutrition, meal timing, and the importance of carbohydrates as a primary fuel source, which often gets overshadowed by an emphasis on protein.

The Voice of Experts

Megan Dudczak, Corporate Director of Nutrition at Chartwells Higher Education, articulates the driving philosophy of the program: “Many student-athletes want to understand what to put on their plates. While there’s often a significant focus on protein intake, it’s vital to convey the importance of carbohydrates, especially for those engaged in demanding athletic activities.” This educational component aims to help students make informed choices about their diets, emphasizing food that aids in performance while enhancing recovery.

Tailored Nutritional Guidelines

The program guides students to prioritize meals that reflect balanced nutritional profiles. It emphasizes specific ratios of macronutrients to support various training intensities, addressing the importance of meal timing directly related to performance needs. The meals include a variety of components that foster recovery, such as lean proteins, fruits, vegetables, and hydration strategies.

A Commitment to Inclusivity

Eva Wojtalewski, the CEO of Chartwells Higher Education, stated, “Performance Circle exemplifies our ongoing commitment to providing inclusive and student-centered dining solutions.” This initiative is not only aimed at student-athletes but also open to all students who wish to enhance their physical wellness through better nutrition. It promotes access to resources crucial for achieving success both academically and athletically.

Pilot Program Launch

At present, Chartwells is piloting Performance Circle at several selected campuses across the United States. The program reflects the organization’s dedication to improving student experiences through nutritious and accessible meal options, accommodating the dietary preferences of a diverse student body.

Conclusion

In a time where the importance of nutrition in sports and education is increasingly recognized, the launch of Performance Circle marks a significant step forward. Chartwells Higher Education’s initiative highlights the essential role that nutrition plays not just in athletic performance but in the overall well-being of students navigating their college experience. By focusing on what students eat and educating them on how to manage their nutritional needs, Chartwells is poised to make a lasting impact on campus life and student success.

To learn more about Chartwells and its initiatives, visit ChartwellsHigherEd.com.