The University of Nevada, Reno recently solicited proposals from industry leaders to find a new high-quality and affordable foodservice program to serve the campus community. Three proposals were received and all three companies were invited to campus for a daylong presentation to the campus community and the review committee.

The successful vendor, Chartwells Higher Education, a division of Compass Group PLC, will implement initiatives to best balance the cost of meal plans for students with a quality program; provide a retail program and a catering program that measures and embraces industry changes, and continually look forward to improving customer experiences. As part of the new offerings, Compass Group will franchise a new Panera Bread bakery and café, which is planned to be located inside the Fitzgerald Student Services Building, and could open as early as fall 2019.

"This agreement supports the University's efforts to provide a student-centric dining program that is a visible representation of the academic quality and affordability of the University," Rod Aeschlimann, executive director of the University's Residential Life, Housing & Food Services department, said.

Residential dining meal plan rates will continue to be approved by the Board of Regents during the fall meetings.

Chartwells is the recognized leader in contract food service management, hospitality and award-winning guest service within 280 college and university dining environments throughout academic institutions across the U.S. Chartwells' nutritious cuisine not only satisfies the unique appetites, lifestyles and dietary needs of every guest dining on campus, but it also brings people together to promote the high-intensity relationships that will prepare students for the future.

"We are thrilled to continue our long-standing relationship with the University," Cody Begg, resident district manager for Chartwells' University account, said. "We are looking forward to the new and exciting enhancements that this agreement will bring to our dining venues across campus."

Compass Group also has more than a decade of proven leadership in the sustainability space. In 2018, Fast Company recognized the organization as the No. 1 Most Innovative Food Company because of its commitments to sustainable menus and food-waste reduction. Compass Group has proudly purchased plant-based meat alternatives and, in partnership with the Humane Society of the United States, has launched Food Forward training that inspired chefs to put flavor first in meat-free meals.

Members of the University's review committee included the Associate Vice President for Student Life Services, the University Controller, the Executive Director for Residential Life, Housing and Food Services, the Director of the Joe Crowley Student Union and the Director of Residential Life. For more information about the University's dining services, visit unr.edu/housing/dining.