Chartwells Higher Education Triumphs with NACUFS Awards
Chartwells Higher Education is proud to announce that its dining programs have been recognized with 25 awards from the National Association of College & University Food Services (NACUFS) across the categories of Loyal E. Horton Dining, Sustainability, and Nutrition. This remarkable achievement positions Chartwells Higher Education as the most awarded food service provider by NACUFS in 2025. These annual awards celebrate institutions demonstrating excellence in culinary creativity, event management, and exceptional dining concepts.
This recognition underscores the vital role that Chartwells Higher Education plays in collegiate dining and highlights the hard work of its dedicated teams. Notable highlights from the award-winning dining programs include:
Leading Institutions Celebrated
University of Pittsburgh | Grand Prize & Gold in Residential Dining Facility of the Year
The Eatery at the University of Pittsburgh has unveiled a renovated food hall that embraces 11 distinctive concepts, celebrating the cultural diversity of Pittsburgh and responding to student feedback. The Eatery, with chef-crafted meals, offers an outstanding dining experience, making it the primary destination for both students and the local community.
University of Pittsburgh | Silver in Retail Sales: Marketplace of the Year
Forbes Street Market serves the campus and nearby community with a curated selection of groceries and freshly prepared food alongside a full-service deli.
Cal Poly | Grand Prize & Gold in Innovative Dining Program
Cal Poly Campus Dining showcases an engaging, student-centric approach by combining diverse food options, sustainability practices, and cutting-edge technology, resulting in a personalized dining experience. With over 40 venues and a deep commitment to student feedback, the program nurtures well-being and strengthens the community on campus.
Cal Poly | Grand Prize & Gold in Outreach and Education
A Self-Care Fair organized by Cal Poly Campus Dining aimed at enhancing student mental health through wellness activities. This significant event fostered connections, promoted relaxation, and underscored the institution's dedication to student well-being beyond food.
Cal Poly | Silver in Renovation of the Year for the 1901 Marketplace, which emphasizes the historical significance of the facility while meeting growing needs as Cal Poly continues to expand.
Exceptional Contributions in Sustainability and Wellness
University of Florida | Grand Prize & Gold in Renovation of the Year
The University of Florida's renovation of The Eatery at Broward Hall greatly improved student amenities by adding more seating and food options, along with an allergen-free zone and a plant-based menu offering. This refreshed environment champions sustainability by sourcing locally and creating a delicious dining space.
University of Florida | Silver in Wellness and Nutrition Program
Students participated in a Roots & Seeds Plant-Forward Trial, aimed at broadening plant-based meal options while furthering education through sessions led by the campus dietitian at Arredondo Café.
UNC Charlotte | Grand Prize & Gold in Special Diet Recipe of the Year
The culinary team at UNC Charlotte was recognized for their Avoiding Gluten and Vegan Tofu Pho Bowl, designed to cater to diverse dietary requirements. This dish exemplified bold flavors using locally sourced ingredients while prioritizing mindful nutrition, becoming a thriving favorite among students.
Babson College Dining | Gold in Employee Development Program and Grand Prize Finalist
The Nourishing Talent initiative at Babson College Dining aimed at uplifting frontline staff, providing wellness, accessibility, and growth opportunities that support a valued workplace environment, contributing to an impressive 91% retention rate.
University of Miami | Gold in Residential Dining Facility of the Year
Years in the making, the University of Miami's Centennial Village Dining Hall reflects significant student input. It spans over 40,000 square feet and two stories while offering customizable dining options and a Teaching Kitchen, all dedicated to sourcing food locally and embracing sustainability.
NYU | Gold in Sustainability Carbon Neutrality
NYU Eats demonstrates its commitment to sustainability through efforts in reducing food waste and carbon emissions, engaging students with nutritious meals via programs such as the NYC Plant-Power Food Challenge.
NYU | Silver in Multiple Concepts of the Year
Crave NYU redesigned campus dining with a fast-casual market showcasing global flavors and plant-based offerings, effectively serving over 1,200 guests daily through its innovative micro-concepts.
Eva Wojtalewski, CEO of Chartwells Higher Education, stated, "These awards showcase the creativity, dedication, and care our teams put into campus dining. I'm immensely proud of our continual commitment to setting high standards across the country. These recognitions go beyond food quality — they emphasize the impact we have on students and communities."
The awards also recognized various other significant programs, including:
- American University | Bronze in Special Diet Program of the Year for their "Kitchen Away from Home" inclusive dining.
- Manhattan University, powered by Gourmet Dining | Bronze in Outreach and Educational Program of the Year for Manhattan U Eats dining program and Bronze in Residential Special Event of the Year for Cooking with Kevin.
- Marywood University, powered by Gourmet Dining | Silver in Residential Special Event of the Year for their Chef Madness Bracket Competition.
- Montclair State University, powered by Gourmet Dining | Bronze in Catering Special Event of the Year for a zero-waste menu, Silver in Employee Development Program of the Year, and Silver in Outreach and Education Program of the Year for their newly renovated Teaching Kitchen.
- Seton Hall, powered by Gourmet Dining | Bronze in Residential Dining Facility for Bishop Dougherty Dining Hall.
- Stevens Institute of Technology, powered by Gourmet Dining | Silver in Retail Sales: Single Concept of the Year for Pi Kitchen and Bronze in Retail Sales: Marketplace of the Year for UCC Marketplace.
- University of Chicago | Bronze in Outreach and Educational Program of the Year.
About Chartwells Higher Education Dining Services
Chartwells is known as a leader in contract food service management, hospitality, and guest services across over 320 colleges and universities nationwide. By focusing on high-tech, food-infused social spaces, Chartwells enhances the campus dining experience, fostering meaningful relationships and interactions. The company excels in culinary innovation, nutrition, and sustainability, providing uniquely tailored dining experiences for each campus.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of the NACUFS awards?
The NACUFS awards recognize excellence in culinary innovation, event execution, and exceptional dining concepts in collegiate food service.
How many awards did Chartwells Higher Education receive?
Chartwells Higher Education received 25 awards across various categories, making it the top-recognized food service provider by NACUFS in 2025.
What are some notable programs highlighted in the awards?
Programs from institutions like the University of Pittsburgh and Cal Poly were celebrated for their innovative dining concepts and outreach initiatives.
How does Chartwells prioritize sustainability?
Chartwells emphasizes local sourcing, reducing food waste, and promoting plant-based meals as part of its commitment to sustainability.
What did Eva Wojtalewski say about the achievements?
Eva Wojtalewski emphasized that the awards reflect the creativity and dedication of the Chartwells teams, highlighting their positive impact on students and communities.
