While Bluffton students may have noticed the new paper towel dispensers, a much bigger change also occurred. Bob’s Place, one of the two places to get a meal in the Marbeck Center using a meal plan, was torn apart and started renovations that are currently ongoing. This is the first major change to the location since it was added to the Marbeck Center in 2003.
Mark Bourassa, photo by Nathan Heinze
“The decision to move forward [with the remodelling] was definitely [made] over the summer, but we’ve been talking about things for quite a while,” said Mark Bourassa, director of the Marbeck Center. Indeed, returning students may remember the survey given out during lunch back in January. As for why the renovations were decided on, Bourassa said student needs where a major reason for the decision.
“We’re always trying to figure out ways, you know, to meet changing needs. Students are at the forefront of why we’re making any changes,” said Bourassa. “Students were definitely talking about smoothies, they were definitely talking to us about freshly-prepared foods.”
The dining staff chose Freshëns, an Atlantan franchise with more than 300 outlets in malls, airports and even other universities, to meet these needs. Those concerned with how this will be funded will be happy to learn that it is not with student tuition.
“The funding for this really came from our Sodexo partner… the international company that helps manage our dining services,” said Bourassa. “Students, sometimes when you do these things they think, ‘Oh this is my tuition dollars,’ but it’s actually being funded from a different source.”
Opinions on the remodel seem to be mixed. On one hand, some students see the remodel as something to look forward to.
“I am very excited,” said Emily Griffioen, a senior graphic design major. “I’m excited to see the new options, and I’m excited to eat there more often.”
Dalton Eversole, a sophomore new childhood education major, shares Griffioen’s excitement.
“I like the different options, as well as the extended hours,” he said.
Others aren’t so optimistic, however.
“Honestly, I think it’s a waste of money, but I also don’t know how much it costs,” said Jenny Mattson, a senior dietetics major.
“I don’t think they needed to take everything out to make better food,” said Dan Gregg, a senior business major.
Administration intends to have these changes finished by the middle of September. The new menu is planned to include crispy crepe salads, flatbread sandwiches and rice bowls. However, Simply-To-Go Meals and the expanded convenience store should be open starting Monday in the general location of Bob’s Place until the Freshëns is completed, Bourassa said.
