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Happening simultaneously across 300 U.S. college and university campuses.
read moreWinthrop University Welcomes Chartwells Higher Education as New Dining Service Provider
Following a comprehensive review of its dining strategy, Winthrop University has announced that Chartwells Higher Education has been selected as its new food service provider, effective August 1, 2025. With a proven track record of innovation and student-focused solutions, Chartwells plans to bring an energized and collaborative dining vision to campus, built around culinary excellence, community connection, and student development.
Students returning this fall will enjoy a completely refreshed dining landscape. The main dining hall includes a “Delicious Without” station that avoids all top nine allergens, and a new “Avoiding Gluten Pantry” dedicated to students with gluten intolerance. Action stations focused on made-to-order meals offer fresh, customizable options daily. Adding to the excitement are Teaching Kitchen Pop-Ups, hands-on cooking sessions where students can learn basic culinary skills and healthy meal prep.
Chartwells is also enhancing on-campus retail with four new restaurant concepts in Markley’s, including the True Burger, Paper Lantern, Copperhead Jacks, and Gateway Dough and Wings. The company’s catering division, Blue Line Catering, will bring a modern approach to campus events, offering menus for everything from high-end receptions to casual student gatherings, all featuring locally sourced, sustainable ingredients.
In addition to elevated meals, Chartwells is introducing programs like First Year Eats, helping freshmen navigate dining with ease, and Supper Club, an event where students and campus leaders connect over themed dinners. Mobile ordering and kiosk technology will streamline service across campus.
Chartwells has also committed to interviewing all previous dining employees, reinforcing their dedication to continuity and community. According to Danny Dawkins, District Manager for Chartwells and Rock Hill native, the goal is to create an experience that reflects the heart of Winthrop’s student life.
“We’re honored to partner with Winthrop University and deliver a dining program that celebrates innovation, learning, and shared experience,” said Dawkins. “From fresh food to real-world student opportunities, we’re here to make an impact well beyond the plate.”
Chartwells serves more than 300 colleges and universities nationwide, known for pairing culinary excellence with hospitality, innovation, and student engagement.
