VCU news

Virginia Commonwealth University's Market 810 at Shafer Court Dining Center has been named a Dining Hall of Distinction by University Business Magazine, which praised the dining center's abundant food options, warm atmosphere and responsive customer service, among other qualities.

Market 810, which is operated by Aramark, was the winner in the Public Institution category. Dining Halls of Distinction represent excellence in all aspects of dining operations, including atmosphere, service, variety of offerings, guest satisfaction, environmental sustainability and financial stability. A total of 65 higher education institutions from around the country submitted applications for the award. Judges were three University Business editors, the magazine's art director, a recent college graduate, a graduate student and a higher education consultant and former college president.

"Receiving this distinctive award is truly an honor for VCU," said Diane Reynolds, director of business services at VCU. "Shafer Court Dining Center was designed to provide flexibility and diversity in menu offerings to accommodate the ever-changing dining needs of our students. Our dining program is an integral part of student life and providing nutritious meals in a friendly restaurant atmosphere conducive to socialization is a priority for us."

In an article about the award winners, University Business said the "sights and sounds" of the Market 810 at Shafer Court Dining Center make it an ideal location for students to gather for meals and to linger and socialize. The dining center, which was built in 2004 for $18 million, was designed by Hanbury Evans Wright Vlattas + Company of Norfolk.

Melissa Ezarik, managing editor of University Business Magazine, said Market 810 "really stood out as a place at which the campus community does not just enjoy the food but the restaurant-like setting as well. Murals created by VCU artists adorn the walls, and the student-run radio station feeds the ears. The creative programming is also impressive. For example, students can attend events such as a late-night breakfast before exams, where they mingle with professors and administrators and play games while eating. And each month a local ethnic restaurant comes in to prepare some of its meals."

For a look at all of the winners and runners-up, view the October issue of University Business at www.universitybusiness.com.