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Discovering Milestones: A New Era in Student Dining and Development

Chartwells Higher Education has launched a groundbreaking program called "Milestones", which revolutionizes the connection between dining experiences and student development. As a leader in contract foodservice management, Chartwells is committed to enhancing the collegiate journey from the moment a student steps onto campus until graduation and beyond.

Bridging the Gap Between Dining and Development

At the heart of the Milestones program is the idea that dining can be more than just a mealtime routine; it is a central hub for students to connect and build relationships. Studies have shown that a strong sense of community among students significantly contributes to their overall success and likelihood of graduating. By viewing dining as a vital aspect of the university experience, Chartwells aims to enhance student engagement across various developmental stages.

CEO Eva Wojtalewski emphasized the importance of this integration, stating, "The college experience is a continuous stream of growth, challenges, and achievements, and our dining programs are supportive threads throughout." The Milestones program embraces this philosophy by offering engaging activities and events that resonate with the current academic phases of students.

Tailored Experiences for Each Year

Milestones is structured around different developmental phases, addressing the unique needs of students during their college years:

Freshmen: The Figuring It Out Phase

This phase is dedicated to welcoming first-year students and helping them navigate their transitions into college life. It focuses on fostering a foundation of belonging, providing supportive dining experiences as new students settle in.

Sophomores: The Thriving and Exploring Phase

This phase aims to promote personal growth and community through shared experiences and participation in campus traditions. It encourages students to explore their interests and immerse themselves more deeply into campus life.

Juniors and Seniors: Preparing for What's Next

As students approach graduation, the focus shifts towards real-world readiness. This phase includes social etiquette events, hands-on learning experiences, and career placement opportunities, ensuring that students are well-prepared for life beyond university.

Signature Celebrations: Anchoring the Academic Calendar

Milestones features three major campus-wide celebrations aligned with academic moments, reinforcing the connections and achievements students experience during their college years:

• - First Bite Event: Kicking off the school year, this event marks the initial meal and a student's first significant step into their collegiate journey.
• - Campus Life Festival: Held mid-year in February, this festival serves as a revitalization point for students, promoting community and celebrating campus spirit.
• - End-of-Year Send-Off: This celebration honors graduating students, acknowledging their achievements and growth while looking forward to their future endeavors.

Integration with Existing Programs

The Milestones initiative will seamlessly integrate with existing programs like First Year Eats, Supper Club, Teaching Kitchens, and Student Success Internships. This collaboration creates a comprehensive support system catering to students throughout their entire college experience.

By prioritizing student engagement and career readiness, Milestones aims to foster a thriving campus environment where students feel supported and connected. The program is set to launch in 2026 across various colleges and universities nationwide.

Conclusion

Chartwells Higher Education continues to redefine the on-campus dining experience, emphasizing culinary excellence alongside student engagement. Through the Milestones program, Chartwells is poised to create joyful dining experiences that not only delight the palate but also enrich students' journeys. To learn more about how Chartwells is transforming campus dining, explore their commitment to culinary excellence at Chartwells Higher Ed.