Archive: Business & Technology

Aurora, N.Y. – Aurora Inn Inc. announced the Express Café—one of their dining entities at Wells College— is one of the bronze recipients for the 2013 Loyal E. Horton Dining Awards, given by The National Association of College and University Food Services (NACUFS). Named for a NACUFS founder, past president and highly regarded innovator, the Dining Awards celebrate exemplary menus, presentations, special event planning, and new dining concepts, and provide an avenue for sharing ideas and creative presentations in campus dining services.

More than 100 colleges and universities across North America submitted entries in six categories, including Residential Dining Concepts, Residential Dining—Special Event, Retail Sales—Single Concept, Retail Sales—Multiple Concepts/Market-place, Catering—Special Event, and Catering—Online Menu. A team of six judges examined each entry carefully and selected top candidates in each category.

“Winning a Loyal E. Horton Dining Award is the ultimate professional tribute to college and university culinary arts,” said Jack Donahue of North Dakota State University, the Loyal E. Horton Dining Awards chair. “It’s an honor that NACUFS members strive for; to be Dining Award winner.”

Each year’s contest entries are displayed at the NACUFS national conference and award winners are publically recognized at a luncheon culminating with the announcement of the Grand Prize winners. Grand Prize winners also receive recognition with a feature article in NACUFS’ magazine, Campus Dining Today.

Competing for one of these prestigious awards not only helps market the dining program as an award-winning program, it builds a sense of pride and team spirit within a dining staff. Sharing creativity and knowledge with other foodservice professionals is a key component to NACUFS membership.

Since its opening in 2009, the Express Café has become known for its friendly, knowledgeable baristas, delicious homemade desserts, grab-and-go meals, and locally roasted coffee.

“It's been my pleasure getting to know the people of this community, especially the students of Wells College. To be able to share the experiences and growth with each other is a unique thing that only a college atmosphere can provide,” says Jessica Stanton, Express Café manager. “Despite the Express Cafe's size, we are continually growing and improving.  With the recognition from the NACUFS, I'm excited for the exchange of ideas between the Express Cafe staff and other operations around the nation!”

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