Muskingum University’s Patton Dining Hall is set to undergo renovations beginning in the Spring of 2018.
Muskingum Dean of Students, Susan Waryck, and Food Services Director, Jodi Swendryck, both said they are excited for the changes but understand students may have some concerns.
“We know that it will be an inconvenience for students in some ways,” said Waryck. “…With the last part of the semester, it will be a little bit of a challenge for students. But we’re really asking them to be patient with us because trying to make Patton a really great dining experience is going to take a lot of time.”
Swendryck said reasons behind the renovations were based on feedback from the student body and how much Thomas Hall was currently being used. According to Swendryck, Patton has served approximately six times as many students as Thomas.
“It doesn’t make sense,” said Swendryck. “We’re wasting food and labor and time to do that, when we could be focusing so much more all in one location.”
Waryck said some of the biggest changes include adding Kelley Coffeehouse as part of the dining hall as well as brick ovens and charging stations.
“Jodi and the Aramark team are really excited about sharing these changes,” said Waryck.
“We wanted it to be a space where students could connect,” said Swendryck. “It’s not so formal. We want it to be a place where everyone can relax.”
Once renovations are completed, Patton will then be used as the primary dining option on campus.
Waryck said Thomas Hall will no longer be used as a dining option once the Patton renovations are completed, and discussions regarding its future will occur following the renovations.
Waryck said an event is currently being planned for Tuesday, Sept. 12 in Chess Social Hall to reveal their plans for the renovation, including images and mock-ups of the new dining facility. Waryck said anyone who would like to attend the event is welcome.
