The Employee Recognition Committee of Staff Senate would like to congratulate Chartwells as the Department of the Month for June 2004.
Chartwells, the campus food service provider since 1984, serves one million meals annually to UNK students, faculty, staff and campus guests. In the nomination letter, it was noted that "Chartwells will soon be one of the finest dining programs in our geographical area."
In recent months, Chartwells has spent many hours talking with students and taking part in forums. As a result of a collaborative effort which included Chartwells, UNK students and the University, several new and innovative ideas will be initiated beginning this fall.
For example, students will have a block meal plan which will allow the students increased flexibility in their meal plan. The block meal plan offers 135 meals to be used at any time. Also, transferability for the students has been extended to allow students the ability to "transfer" for a cash allowance towards a la carte purchases at the retail locations. Also, Loper Express will begin serving students, staff and faculty at 7 a.m.
In addition, the dining facility will be renovated to create five distinct theme-based dining areas. The themes include--sports, news, cinema, a quiet area and an area with a Tuscany look. Renovation began the week after spring commencement and is expected to be completed by the second week of August. Along with a new look, the menu will be expanded to include a new Mongolian barbecue, rotisserie area and an oven in the dining room where diners will be able to enjoy the aromas as well as the flavors of fresh baked goods.
As noted in the nomination form: "What makes all the changes for Chartwells so unique is that they were student driven. Chartwells does care about the students and has listened to every suggestion that was proposed."
Staff Senate recognizes Chartwells for the valuable services provided to students, the campus, the community and the state, and designates them the Department of the Month for July.