First-ever 'Supper Club' fosters conversation, connection

Central Michigan University has unveiled its latest innovative dining initiative, Supper Club, to reimagine campus dining in partnership with CMU Dining, part of Chartwells Higher Education. This first-of-its-kind program introduces an elevated dining experience on campus, uniting students for memorable meals that blend sophistication with nostalgia and foster engaging conversations and meaningful connections.

Supper Club is designed to connect students through unparalleled dining experiences. At Supper Club, the Merrill Virtual Food Hall club room has been transformed into a unique dining ambiance customized for CMU’s students and their interests. Students have the option to gather around communal tables where they can share meals and conversation in a family-style setting. Dining associates act as “hosts,” engaging with students in a whole new way with dried flowers, cloth napkins, and elegant decor to emulate an elevated dining experience.

"Supper Club is just one of the many ways that CMU Dining strives to create unique, engaging dining experiences for students,” said Tyson Dubay, Resident District Manager, CMU Dining. “Through this program, we’re providing students with not only a variety of menu options, but also an opportunity to meet new people and foster meaningful connections."

Research shows Gen Z is the most nostalgic generation of all, craving the cultural phenomena and trends of the past in the modern day. This desire brought Chartwells Higher Education’s Supper Club concept to life, which offers flexible programming tailored to the needs of CMU’s campus community.

"Our commitment to enhancing student life goes beyond providing nourishment; it’s about creating memorable moments of joy and connection through food," says Eva Wojtalewski, CEO of Chartwells Higher Education. "Supper Club not only elevates dining experiences in new and unique ways but also celebrates the communal spirit of college life, bringing students together to savor delicious food, experience something fresh yet nostalgic, and forge lasting friendships."

Piloted this fall, Supper Club offers an enticing array of culinary themes, including Italian Fine Dining and Asian Fusion, with menus curated by Chartwells’ culinarians to cater to a diverse range of palates. Events at Supper Club will include live music, mocktail bars, tableside demonstrations, partnerships with student groups, and engaging conversations enriching campus life and fostering a sense of community.

Supper Club represents Chartwells’ and CMU’s ongoing commitment to enhancing the student experience through innovative dining solutions.