#United States #Charlotte #Higher Education #Chartwells #experiential learning

Chartwells Higher Education: Leading the Charge in Experiential Learning

In a bold step forward, Chartwells Higher Education is redefining educational experiences through the integration of innovative learning and professional development opportunities. As the landscape of education evolves, Chartwells is paving the way for students to engage in hands-on learning that not only enhances their campus experience but also prepares them for real-world careers.

Transforming Dining Services into Learning Environments

Traditionally viewed simply as a food service provider, Chartwells is transforming dining services into hubs for learning and collaboration. By forming strategic partnerships and crafting tailored educational experiences, they are fostering an environment where students can gain invaluable skills, benefiting both their personal and professional lives.

Eva Wojtalewski, CEO of Chartwells Higher Education, emphasizes the importance of creating opportunities for students through connection. She states, "When we design experiences that blend education, community, and care, we're helping students develop skills and relationships that last far beyond their time on campus."

Innovative Programs Leading the Way

Chartwells has introduced several key programs that exemplify their commitment to experiential education:

1. IGNITE: The National Student Dining Advisory Board

The IGNITE program is a trailblazer as it serves as the industry’s first national student advisory board. It allows students to collaborate with Chartwells leaders to innovate ideas surrounding various aspects like technology and mental health initiatives. This year, the program welcomed its largest group, including the Brew Tank, a platform where students can pitch and refine new dining concepts in real-time.

2. Student Success Internships: Building Career Readiness

Launched in 2017, the Student Success Internship program offers 10 career-focused tracks and has successfully guided hundreds of students towards meaningful employment within Chartwells, showcasing the company’s dedication to long-term professional growth.

3. Culinary Education with the Illinois College Teaching Kitchen Series

This program combines culinary artistry with academic reflection, involving over 270 participants. Students engage in hands-on cooking sessions while earning credits that contribute to their graduation requirements, thereby fostering transferable skills linked to health and wellness.

4. Carnegie Mellon University Restaurant Builder Course

This innovative course empowers students to breathe life into their entrepreneurial ideas by conceptualizing and launching dining establishments. The program merges basic business theory with the realities of hospitality, exemplified by the successful student-run Capital Grains concept, which blends creativity and strategic planning for optimal guest experiences.

5. Babson College Roger's Pub Grille: A Platform for Student Innovation

Roger's Pub Grille provides a unique platform for student-led initiatives, where a ghost kitchen allows students to showcase their culinary innovations. One standout venture, Desi Eats, exemplifies how collaboration with Chartwells over 18 months led to a successful health-conscious dining concept, providing real-world management experience.

Kristin Frazier, the program's Director, highlights the evolution of the Student Success initiative, praising its transformative impact on student lives and career trajectories, stating, "Watching it grow into something that's changing lives and launching careers has been nothing short of inspiring."

The Future of Education with Chartwells

Chartwells Higher Education isn't merely redefining dining services; they’re enhancing the educational journey altogether by integrating experiential learning into their programs. Through robust initiatives like IGNITE and the Student Success Program, they prioritize collaboration and innovation to empower students to leave lasting impressions on their communities.

For more information on how Chartwells is creatively reshaping campus dining and student opportunities, visit Chartwells Higher Education.

About Chartwells Higher Education

Chartwells is the premier leader in contract food service management, focusing on creating engaging dining experiences across more than 320 colleges and universities in the United States. Their commitment to innovation in culinary services supports meaningful connections among students, making dining a focal point of the academic experience.

Explore how they are fostering joy in campus dining while equipping students for success at www.ChartwellsHigherEd.com.