Baylor University Selects Chartwells Higher Education as Dining Services Partner

Contact: Lori Fogleman, Baylor University Media and Public Relations, 254-709-5959
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WACO, Texas (Dec. 8, 2023) – Baylor University announced today that Chartwells Higher Education, a nationally recognized leader in food service management, has been selected as the University’s new dining services partner, effective June 1, 2024.

The announcement follows approval by the Baylor Board of Regents through a special subcommittee established in November for the limited purpose of approving contracts that require execution before the Board’s regular February 2024 meeting. The Board’s approval was based upon a recommendation by the President’s Council and a campus-wide services evaluation committee. Contract negotiations between Baylor and Chartwells Higher Education are underway.

“We look forward to welcoming Chartwells Higher Education to Baylor University as our dining services partner on June 1, 2024. They are well known as an innovative, exciting and sustainable provider on more than 300 campuses across the country,” said Peter Granick, associate vice president of business services and chief procurement officer at Baylor. “I also want to thank Aramark for their decades-long partnership with Baylor and the dedicated employees who have faithfully served our community. We will continue to foster a positive relationship with Aramark, and we are working cooperatively to ensure minimal disruption to operations or employees.”

Baylor University has for many years functioned in a combined multi-services relationship with Aramark for facilities, dining, custodial and other campus services. This single source approach has been under consideration for some time, and based on a range of feedback, the University recently issued requests for proposals to separate vendors for its next contract cycle, to allow for a more focused and customizable delivery of services.

Parameters in Baylor’s dining services request for proposals required all potential vendors to outline how they would approach the retention of current Aramark employees, proposed work-hour structures and fair market compensation. The University has been pleased with the approach submitted by Chartwells and believes a transition next June will provide beneficial opportunities for dining employees. A Chartwells Higher Education team is connecting with current Aramark employees in a variety of ways regarding opportunities with Chartwells.

“Chartwells Higher Education is thrilled for the opportunity to partner with Baylor University, continuing to support the vision, mission and values of the institution through exceptional dining service,” said Joe Fischioni, West Division President, Chartwells Higher Education. “As an organization that prides itself on creating rewarding opportunities for our great people, we are particularly excited to work alongside current dining employees to share how they might become integral members of the Chartwells team. We look forward to partnering with Baylor University next June, and working together to provide students, faculty and staff with an exceptional on-campus dining experience.”

Granick also thanked the evaluation committee, comprised of staff and faculty from across the University, for its time and service during the extensive review and recommendation process.

ABOUT BAYLOR UNIVERSITY

Baylor University is a private Christian University and a nationally ranked Research 1 institution. The University provides a vibrant campus community for more than 20,000 students by blending interdisciplinary research with an international reputation for educational excellence and a faculty commitment to teaching and scholarship. Chartered in 1845 by the Republic of Texas through the efforts of Baptist pioneers, Baylor is the oldest continually operating University in Texas. Located in Waco, Baylor welcomes students from all 50 states and more than 100 countries to study a broad range of degrees among its 12 nationally recognized academic divisions.

ABOUT CHARTWELLS HIGHER EDUCATION

Chartwells is the recognized leader in contract food service management, hospitality, and guest service at over 300 college and universities in the United States. Chartwells is re-inventing the on-campus dining experience by investing in high-tech, food-infused social spaces that bring students and people together to promote meaningful relationships and interactions. The company’s excellence in culinary, nutrition, technology, and sustainability brings truly unique dining experiences to every campus. Learn more about how Chartwells is creating joy in campus dining and preparing students for success at www.ChartwellsHigherEd.com, www.DineonCampus.com.