$6 million renovation on the menu for SAU dining hall

For The Catholic Messenger

DAVENPORT — A new dining and social space with an expanded menu are among the goals of a $6 million renovation to the dining hall in Cosgrove Hall at St. Ambrose University.

After completion, the renovated dining hall will offer an expanded menu of alternating food options and preparation selections. More than 2,700 students, plus faculty and staff use the dining hall.

According to the university, the social space would provide new opportunities for students to socialize, study and connect with others using supportive technologies and equipment. “We are blessed to have this opportunity to reimagine the dining experience for our students and team members,” said St. Ambrose University President Amy Novak. “We are grateful to be a strong university built on the Catholic tradition with a $220 million endowment gifted by our alumni and donors. This is a perfect example of the ways we as a university are investing in our future.”

Through its partnership with Sodexo, St. Ambrose will offer elevated cuisine options in a food-court style setting. The new dining areas will include table seating, social areas, tables for study and group-work with access to visual displays through WiFi and Bluetooth connectivity.

“We know our students are able to better focus on their learning when they have access to good food options they enjoy. This project is part of our strategic facilities master plan and is among the first to begin construction. We’re excited for students to enjoy this new space in the fall,” said Mike Poster, vice president of finance.