Photo by Jessica Maloney,
UNH Human Resources

For students at the University, one of the greatest and most immediate differences from the routine of their lives at home must be the experience of eating in dining halls. As a UNH alum who ate dining hall meals all four of her student years, and who also worked at the Food Court, Rochelle L'Italien can well empathize with this. To help assist students in making the best of this transition, Rochelle informs them, in a variety of ways, of the options provided by University Hospitality Services. Over the past eleven years, Rochelle has served as a registered and licensed dietitian for UHS, providing nutritional counseling and education programs, and also as Marketing and Promotions Coordinator, designing various print media detailing the products and services offered by UHS. Not only does she help to educate on issues of health and activity, but Rochelle herself serves as a role model.

As someone who loves a challenge, Rochelle finds satisfaction in the variety her position offers. From the creative and technical skills required to produce quality print media, to the interpersonal skills required in counseling students on nutrition, Rochelle's role within UHS offers her a chance to utilize many skills. She has also made use of the educational and training opportunities available to members of the University community, and has recently completed the Graphic Arts Certificate Program through DCE. When asked what she most enjoys about working at UNH, Rochelle's response was "there's a lot about UNH that I like: the rural setting, the people in various departments that I've met and work with, the UHS team I work with now. I would have to say that the interactions that I've had over the years working with people all throughout campus have helped me learn about community and helped me build character." If her energy and enthusiasm are as contagious as they appear, than it seems many members of the UNH community, staff and student alike, have had the privilege of being inspired by Rochelle.

Exceptionally outgoing, energetic and approachable, it is hard to imagine someone better able than Rochelle to convey to students, by example, the importance of making choices that benefit one's health. Rochelle was a member of the Track Team and the Swimming and Diving Team during her years as a UNH student. She earned a BS in Nutritional Sciences with a minor in Physical Education. Her love of physical activity has led to her current interests, which include rock climbing, mountain biking and her newest passion - riding ramps, jumps and bowls on a BMX bike. "I never thought in a million years I'd ever be doing this, but I love things that challenge and reward me. I ride with my boys (ages 5 and a half, and 10) at Rye Airfield (a huge indoor park) and other parks with ramps and jumps. It's pretty funny and inspiring too to be one of the few girls to be doing this and to hear 'Hey Mom!' from my boys on their bikes, amongst all the other bikers, boarders and bladers! Inspiring my kids, and myself, is a wonderful thing."