By Elizabeth Cooke '27
Editor’s Note: Wellington alumni continue to amaze us with the many ways they shape their communities and industries. From entrepreneurs and innovators to educators and artists, they are charting bold paths forward while staying rooted in the values that connect them back to Wellington. Jags on the Roam celebrates these stories, offering a window into the impact our graduates are making in the world.
Ashley Koff ‘91 is a registered dietitian and personalized nutrition expert who is currently promoting her third book, “Your Best Shot.” After graduating from Wellington, she attended Duke University, where she explored majors in math, science, and drama before ultimately pursuing history. Although initially drawn to advertising, Koff left her job at J. Walter Thompson when her health began to decline. She struggled with digestive issues, anxiety, and unhealthy dieting habits. A pivotal encounter with a gastroenterologist helped identify her root cause of health challenges, prompting her to reframe her understanding of wellness around the body.
Koff returned to school at New York University to complete the academic and clinical training required to become a registered dietitian. She then built a 20-year career in nutrition. Her work ranged from clinical practice to Hollywood clients and reality TV appearances. She has since authored three books with a mission to shift societal understanding of weight and health, especially amid trends like GLP-1 medications. Her current book combines a personal narrative with a playbook for patients and practitioners, including a QR code linking to updated resources to keep her information current.
Wellington gave Koff exposure to diversity, supportive teachers, and opportunities to try and fail without judgment. Although she was unsure of her career while at Wellington, these experiences built adaptability and confidence to navigate setbacks and pursue unconventional paths. She valued the sense of community and independence Wellington brought, even while attending with siblings.
Koff suggests exploring widely–never feel pressured to have a fixed plan early. She explains that breakdowns can lead to breakthroughs, so it’s important to stay resilient and resourceful. Align passion with purpose and find what you can’t not do. Recognize that success often involves risk and adaptability.