The Caf rolls out new offerings for fall semester

“We are committed to serving you and providing you with the best dining experience possible.”

As students returned to campus and college life this semester, many were excited to discover that “The Caf” had undergone some changes to prepare for the new school year. Two new serving lines were introduced, “Smoked” and “Lite and Healthy,” and a brand new coffee machine was added to “keep up [with] the demands of tired college students,” said Food Service Director Rob Stiltner. The 586 also boasts some new items and a ‘f’real’ smoothie and milkshake machine.

Stiltner explains that “the changes stem from student feedback.” It is important to allow campus an opportunity to “voice their concerns and [share] what they think will help the student experience.” Driven by student feedback, Stiltner and his team work to “come up with a plan” to deliver. “Menu items are easy to implement, but the layout and flow of the serving areas is the biggest challenge.”

Students seem happy with the cafeteria updates. “The caf has really stepped up their game this year,” said MVNU junior Alyssa Bales. “I really like the new salad bar options!” Junior Chloe Davis is also very pleased with the new options in the cafeteria and said, “The clearly marked stations and newly arranged sections are better for large crowds, and the variety of food caters to the preferences or culinary needs of every student in a different way.”

The cafeteria will continue to roll out new menu items and side bar rotations throughout the semester, and a smoothie machine will also debut in the Dining Commons. Stiltner says that the overwhelming response so far has been positive, and that the Pioneer team always appreciates “hearing the good things we are doing, but we know we are only as good as what meal we just served.”

Photo: Food Service Director Rob Stiltner with new "Lite and Healthy" line. Photo by Ellie Parker