Gardner-Webb University and Aramark Launch Innovative Dining Enhancements for Fall 2025

Offerings Include More High-Protein and Allergen-Friendly Food Options; Changes to Bo’s; Mobile Ordering; and Other Conveniences

BOILING SPRINGS, N.C.—Gardner-Webb University, in partnership with Aramark Collegiate Hospitality, is excited to unveil a dynamic and student-centered dining transformation for Fall 2025. The transformation includes new retail concepts, enhanced residential dining experiences, and community-focused innovations designed to elevate campus life.

Retail Revamp

• Fresh flavors and seamless technology this fall—Tucker Dining Hall welcomes Heirloom, a new concept featuring flatbread pizzas and custom-made salads, replacing Zoca. The soft launch will be on Aug. 15, followed by the grand opening on Aug. 27.

• Grubhub Ultimate is also making its debut, offering mobile ordering across campus dining locations including Chick-fil-A, Burgers+ Fries, and Heirloom. At Chick-fil-A, students can enjoy the convenience of digital kiosks and mobile payments, with promotional events and onboarding support available throughout August.

• Starbucks Connect will enhance the Starbucks campus experience by integrating the Starbucks Rewards App, enabling mobile ordering, gift card usage, and personalized perks like birthday acknowledgments.

Residential Elevation

• Health, sustainability, and convenience—The Caf introduces the ReUsePass reusable to-go box program, promoting sustainability and reducing waste. This new program will provide sturdier, less wasteful reusable containers and will help Gardner-Webb as we work towards a sustainable future. There is no cost to participate, and you’ll be able to start reusing this fall. We will also have three drop-off bin locations (outside The Caf, Tucker Student Center, and the University Apartments) where you will dispose of the used container so the dining team can wash and sanitize the containers daily for reuse. If you’d like to participate in the reusables program, visit ReusePass, select Gardner-Webb campus and sign up. Click here to join.

• The allergen station—True Balance, a station designed for students with food allergies, is now customizable by moving to online ordering only. Guests can order their meal on Grubhub and pick up in The Caf for a safe and convenient allergy option.

• The new DoneWell Station opens this fall, offering high-protein, whole grain meals tailored to student-athletes and health-conscious diners. A launch event featuring Registered Dietitian Kelli Wood and Executive Chef Thomas Tessneer is scheduled for Aug. 20.

Bo’s in Dover Campus Center (formerly Bo’s Smokehouse)

• Community and Creativity—Bo’s will transform into a hub for pop-up menus, smoothie bars, and community events. The space will be available for private dining, student-led events, and collaborative programming with campus departments. Monthly themes and weekly activations will keep the space fresh and engaging.

Look for more information on the Gardner-Webb Food Co. website, Instagram, and Facebook.

About Aramark Collegiate Hospitality

Aramark partners with colleges and universities to deliver innovative dining solutions that support student success, sustainability, and campus culture.

About Gardner-Webb

Gardner-Webb University is North Carolina’s recognized leader in private, Christian higher education. A Carnegie-Classified Doctoral/Professional University, GWU is home to nine colleges and schools, more than 80 undergraduate and graduate majors, and a world-class faculty. Located on a beautiful 225-acre campus in Boiling Springs, N.C., Gardner-Webb prepares graduates to impact their chosen professions, equips them with the skills to advance the frontiers of knowledge, and inspires them to make a positive and lasting difference in the lives of others. Ignite your future at Gardner-Webb.edu.