Northwestern community invited to comment on food service

EVANSTON - As part of Northwestern University’s comprehensive review of its food service strategy, the University is reaching out to stakeholders for their opinions on how food service is handled at Northwestern.

There are two initial ways students, faculty and staff can get involved in the weeks ahead: they can participate in a focus group discussion with prospective bidders or they can fill out a survey to express their thoughts related to food service at Northwestern.

Community members who are interested in participating in a focus group with potential bidders (which will take place Oct. 10-12) or are instead interested in filling out the survey, please visit the Food Service Invitation to Bid web page for details.  Participation is greatly appreciated. Responses are due by Oct. 6.

As previously announced, the University is seeking proposals to help transform the University’s food service and dining experience on the Evanston and Chicago campuses.

Food service is a major factor in creating an optimal campus experience and a sense of community.  “In an effort to continue improving the overall quality of life for those attending and working at Northwestern University, we are excited to begin the process of evaluating dining options,” said Jim Konrad, executive director of procurement and payment services, which is leading the review process.

This includes services that range from campus dining/meal plans and conference center support services, to catering and concessions at athletics events and vending, he said.  The first part of the process is an “Invitation to Bid” effort at Northwestern, which will include input from stakeholder groups. More opportunities for students, faculty and staff to get involved will occur at various points during the process.