The Colonnades dining hall has been named a runner-up in the “Dining Halls of Distinction” recognition program from University Business magazine, an award that represents excellence in all aspects of dining operations, including atmosphere, service, variety of offerings, guest satisfaction, environmental sustainability and financial stability.
“I have always felt that it has been an honor and a privilege to work with such a progressive high quality university,” said Jeff Gazda, resident district manager for ARAMARK, which runs food operations at Elon. “Colonnades is simply one of the latest pieces of a much larger success story.”
Opened in 2007, the Colonnades features insulation and ceiling tiles made, in part, with recycled materials, and occupancy monitors reduce energy when spaces are not in use. Appliances installed in the building comply with the EPA’s Energy Star Program.
The Colonnades uses no trays, which cuts back on the amount of food wasted each day. It also uses paper bags instead of plastic. And the building is cleaned with environmentally compliant products.
Students can select from among several dining options, including the 1889 Grill Room, Fountain Market, Croutons & Verde’s, and Boar’s Head.
“We are very pleased that Colonnades Dining Hall has been recognized as a Dining Hall of Distinction by University Business,” said Vickie Somers, director of auxiliary services at the university. “Elon is known for innovative ideas and Dining Services is no exception. We always seek feedback from students prior to making changes in the program, including renovating or building a new facility.”
Higher education institutions from across the nation submitted their dining programs for consideration, with a total number of 65 entries received.
“Competition was strong, but some clear winners did emerge during the judging process,” said Melissa Ezarik, managing editor of University Business. Entries were evaluated by three editors and the magazine’s art director (also a college parent), as well as by a recent college grad, a graduate student, and Dr. Neal A. Raisman, a higher education consultant and former college president. Four winners and eight runners-up were selected from the entries.
“Elon’s Colonnades Dining Hall offers three distinct dining areas so that students can change up their dining experience to suit their mood,” Ezrak said. “We also liked that Dining Services has created a Facebook page to update students on specials and promotions. We were impressed by cost containment efforts as well, particularly those that enhance the dining experience, such as that more items are now made from scratch.”
University Business is a leading magazine of business and technology solutions for higher education, reaching virtually every two- and four-year college in the United States.
For a look at all the winners and runner-ups, check out the October issue of University Business, which is available in its entirety online at www.universitybusiness.com. Also online are the completed entries and a list of must-have characteristics for campus dining programs.