Campus food services to blend operations

Unions to integrate with student housing services

In an effort to expand the number of dining options available to students, faculty and staff, KU has begun the process of affiliating and blending the food service operations now separately managed by the KU Memorial Unions and the Department of Student Housing.

Ken Stoner, director of student housing, and David Mucci, director of the KU Memorial Unions, said the reorganization would increase options for the university community including catering services, delivery capabilities and expanded hours of service. The integrations also will generate additional dining venues and will finance renovations for food service operations at Wescoe Terrace and Hashinger Hall.

Although the reorganization will take time and effort, administrators believe the result will be worth the work.

“Transitions can be extremely difficult, but in this case the blending of organizations will be focused on moving from outstanding to exceptional,” said Marlesa Roney, vice provost for student success.

During the transition, Robert Hoyle, currently associate director of DSH dining, will be acting director for KU Dining Services. Jay Glatz will act as associate director for non-board operations, and Nona Golledge will be associate director for board operations. A national search for a director will take place after the integration process is complete.

“As with any organizational evolution, it will take some time to work out the specific details,” Stoner said.

Mucci said that although reorganization would create some changes, staff members wouldn’t be adversely affected.

“Individual positions and job benefits will continue as currently configured for at least the near future,” he said.