New University Commons Unites Our Community
Shared Meals and Conversation
By Alex Lyman ’12/G’16
When you look up at the 30-foot banners hanging from the top of the new,
On your next visit to campus, be sure to stop in for something to eat! Our expanded dining options include Starbucks® Bakery Café, Grille Works, Firehouse Subs®, and the Food Court Market, as well as the main dining hall, which encompasses two floors and includes food prepared by The Fresh Food Company daily.
But this new building isn’t just for meals. It’s the center of the action on campus and the heart of the community. Never before has it been easier or more convenient to share a meal with friends and professors, work on group projects, or discuss academic theory over coffee. In fact, it is just as likely that some of the University’s greatest ideas and endeavors will be born in the University Commons as the D’Amour Library or the engineering labs. You can stay as long as you like and your technology will always be powered through an abundance of USB ports located on and around the seating areas.
“The new University Commons has been a fantastic addition to the Western New England campus community. The number of options for eating has increased, and the quality of the food has skyrocketed along with it. However, the most important impact it has had revolves around improvements to the overall campus atmosphere. From breakfast until the building closes, many students spend time relaxing, socializing, and doing work while enjoying the pleasant atmosphere in the building. The University Commons not only serves food; it serves the students as a beacon of our community.”
–Ian McReynolds, Student Senate President
The University Commons was designed to be a multi-functional space with areas that can be rented for meetings, conferences, and events. From the various room sizes and options, to the modular seating and close proximity to catering, the possibilities are endless. The goal was to create a space that would work for any event or activity, and allow room for innovative and creative endeavors to grow.
A survey from the Campus Dining Today magazine says that student’s main priorities for college dining include healthy options and variety, a globally-focused menu, and a space that foster community building. Our cognizance of student needs and commitment to serving the campus community has addressed those necessities and more.
From cuisine, connections, and creativity, the new University Commons represents progress for our campus, fostering a greater sense of community and providing a place to simply be together.
