Eureka College unveils Dickinson Commons renovation project
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Eureka College unveiled the $2.1 million expansion and renovation of its Dickinson Commons dining hal lin a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by about 100 students, faculty, staff and community members on Aug. 14.
Dickinson Commons underwent major renovation and expansion this summer to convert the original cafeteria design to a modern food court and to accommodate the college’s growing student population. The facility located at the corner of College Avenue and Burgess Street was built in 1961.
The upgrade led by Core Construction added nearly 45 feet to the west side of the building. Seating capacity in the main dining area and the East Room private meeting room has grown by about 25 percent.
The upgrade also includes an expanded kitchen with new equipment, new offices, new restrooms and additional storage space.
Menu offerings are greatly expanded via a food court with six serving stations: one for made-to-order entrees such as omelets and stir-fry; a spot for pizza and pasta; a grill for familiar fast-food fare; a deli-style sandwich bar; a soup and salad bar; and a cereal, pastries and dessert counter.
Approximately 70 percent of Eureka College's more than 700 students reside on campus and use the Commons daily, said Chief Financial Officer Marc Pasteris. “Students expect restaurant-quality flavor and nutritional meals, prepared from exceptional grade domestic, international and organic ingredients utilizing socially responsible methods,” Pasteris said. “This modern, energy-efficient facility delivers culinary excellence, with attention given to an engaging style and customer service.”
Eureka College contracts with Sodexo for food services. Kathy Moore, the college’s food service director, said, “This certainly is an exciting time for both Eureka College and Sodexo. We all appreciate the enhanced dining experience for our students, faculty and staff, as well as the Eureka community and general public.” Beginning Sept. 2, the Commons will be open to the public for breakfast, lunch and dinner on weekdays and brunch and dinner on weekends.
The Burgoo, which is a second, smaller dining area located in the Cerf College Center, also will change its menu. It is going from offering grilled fare to coffee-house options including Starbucks Coffee products and a variety of muffins, salads, wraps and sandwiches, Moore said.
Contact:
Michele Lehman
Media Relations Coordinator
(309) 467-6318
