Chestnut Hill College Director of Athletics and Recreation Jesse Balcer is proud to announce the hiring of Dr. Olivia Younger as the department's full-time Health and Wellness Counselor.
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"The Health and Wellness Counselor position for our athletes is such a critical role in their development and I believe that Olivia will be a tremendous resource for our kids., "said Balcer. "As a college athlete herself, Olivia played a high level of volleyball, so she can empathize with what our student athletes go through. Her welcoming personality, and knowledge of sport performance psychology really make her a great fit for our department."
Younger comes to Chestnut Hill College from Northeastern Junior College in Sterling, Colorado, where she served as the Mental Performance & Student Success Coach.  She holds a Doctor of Education in Sport and Performance Psychology and a Master of Science in Sport and Performance Psychology from the University of Western States. Younger earned her bachelor's degree Lewis-Clark State College, an NAIA school in Lewiston, Idaho where she was a student athlete on the volleyball team.
"I am incredibly excited to join Chestnut Hill College as the Athletic Health and Wellness Counselor and to support the student-athletes throughout their athletic and personal journeys!, said Younger. "As a former collegiate athlete, I understand the challenges that come with balancing performance expectations and academic demands. My personal experiences have shaped my passion for supporting student-athletes mental health, personal growth, and overall well-being. I am grateful for the opportunity to be part of a campus community and department that values the complete care of their student-athletes."Â
In addition to her applied work in athletics, Younger has experience in higher education as an adjunct psychology instructor and student success coach, where she worked closely with coaches, faculty, and campus partners to support student development. Â Her approach is compassionate, collaborative, and strengths-based, with an emphasis on creating a safe and supportive environment where student-athletes feel seen, valued, and empowered to thrive.
"Chestnut Hill College Athletics puts the well-being of our student athletes above all else, and Olivia Younger will help to make sure that statement is accurate. We are so happy to have her on our team, adds Balcer.