Originally published 3/30/15

A variety of changes are coming to Grand Valley State University’s Allendale Campus in 2015, including new food and dining options for students.

Deb Rambadt, campus dining marketing director, spoke to the GVSU Student Senate on Thursday, March 26 to outline the coming changes before they hit campus during the spring and fall semesters. She announced that on April 20-23, students have the opportunity to preview The Marketplace additions.

“You’ll be able to look at it, get some samples, that kind of thing,” she said.

The first major addition will be a new building called The Marketplace, which will be the University Bookstore’s new home. The Marketplace will feature two new campus dining options: a full Starbucks, opening April 27, and sandwich shop Which Wich? that will open in the fall.

“We’ve gotten a lot of Facebook and Twitter action about Starbucks,” Rambadt said. “People are excited.”

The food options in the Kirkhof Center will also be expanded in the fall, using the current bookstore location’s space on the main level.

Subway, currently on the lower level, will move upstairs with two lines to improve traffic flow. There will also be a Panda Express and an expanded Lobby Shop. The Croutons line will remain on the lower level, accompanied by a new customizable pizza and pasta line.

The expansion in Kirkhof, along with the other new venues, will better suit the needs of the growing campus population, Rambadt said.

“Expanding venues increases convenience, helps to balance traffic across campus and, overall, enhances dining experiences,” she said.

Kleiner Commons, on the north end of campus, was transformed last year with new options and improved seating. This year, phase two of that transformation will be implemented, Rambadt said.

The coffee location will be moved this summer to a separate area and will feature EcoGrounds, a sustainable coffee brand. Kleiner’s current C-Store will be expanded to resemble The Connection’s POD store.

There will also be a new gaming center for students to play video games at their leisure on campus televisions.

Students can always give input on changes to campus dining by filling out a new online survey, which helps campus dining determine which types of food students want. Anyone is welcome to join in campus dining’s food committee meetings, which are held every third Tuesday each month.

“Response to the coming changes has been very positive and we’re excited to launch these new options for the campus community to enjoy,” Rambadt said.

The Student Senate named Rambadt Laker of the Year at the Presidents’ Ball in February for her work to improve the university.

“I’m so, so grateful for that recognition – not just for myself but for our entire department,” Rambadt told the senate. “It meant a great deal.”

For more information on the The Marketplace and other campus dining changes, visit www.gvsu.edu/campusdine/inside-the-marketplace-116.htm