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University of Evansville Announces Partnership with New Food Service Provider

Posted: Monday, May 22, 2017

The University of Evansville has signed an agreement with Chartwells, a new food service provider who will begin serving the campus community in fall 2017. Chartwells will offer menu items from Chick-fil-A and Starbucks as well as several other new dining options.

Additional dining options will include: a themed Student Choice Station where students determine what will be served each semester; a new anytime-dine option providing all-you-can-eat access from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.; and a Smart Market Express Convenience location stocked with fresh food in a new location outside of Ridgway University Center.

A committee of students, faculty, and staff members was formed to explore food service options with the goal of expanding the variety and quality of the dining experience at UE and reviewed proposals from numerous vendors over the course of several months. The committee visited other universities to see first-hand how the various dining programs were implemented, as well as to speak with students about their dining experiences.

“We’re always looking for ways to enhance the University of Evansville experience,” said Dana Clayton, vice president of student affairs and dean of students at UE. “Not only were we impressed with Chartwells’ service offerings, we were also intrigued by their focus on sustainability and food philosophy—things that align closely with our students’ interests.”

The University was impressed as well with Chartwells’ commitment to sustainability. The company focuses on reductions in food waste, solid waste to landfill, and efficiencies to minimize the use of water and electricity. They offer biodegradable to-go containers, specialized monitoring equipment to eliminate food waste, and donate leftover edible food to those in need. Chartwells sources seasonal and local foods first, proactively offer vegetarian options without compromised flavor, and tailor menus to each individual campus.

“Our dining programs bring students together and serve as centers of academic life on the campuses we serve,” says Chartwells CEO Lisa McEuen. “Our new mission is to be the place where hungry minds gather.”

Renovations to dining locations will begin in summer 2017 and come online throughout fall semester.