Enthusiastic Students Cheer Opening of Broderick Dining Commons
October 12, 2016
The ribbon is cut to open the brand new Kate and John R. Broderick Dining Commons
Several hundred ODU students quickly flooded into the facility after the ribbon was cut
One of the dining common's unique features is a wood-fired grill.
Event emcee Ted Alexander barely had time to remark at the end of a brief ribbon cutting ceremony that the Kate and John R. Broderick Dining Commons was open when a wave of hungry Monarchs flooded through the rotunda door.
"I guess we didn't need to point out where the entrance is," Alexander joked.
And with that, Old Dominion University embarked on the next chapter in its history and set a new standard in campus cuisine.
"I think you're in for a real treat today," Chief Operating Officer David F. Harnage told those who gathered for the ribbon-cutting ceremony. "This building is a model for American universities in the coming decades, and a top-of-the-line dining experience for all of you."
Also during the brief ceremony, President Broderick stressed his hope that the dining commons serves as a place of fellowship and connectedness for students.
"We hope that not only is this a place where good food is shared, but better understanding of each other is gained, and friendships are made," he said.
The crowd of several hundred students who made their first foray into the University's first stand-alone dining facility will have plenty of time for fellowship in the days and weeks ahead. On this day, however, the enthusiastic crowd seemed focused on exploring the diverse array of food choices available in the 39,000 square foot, all-you-can-eat facility.
The main dining area features eight distinct restaurant-style options:
Bud's American Classics: classic dishes that exude regional comfort;
Maize South American Kitchen: Brazilian-style steakhouse with a churrasco grill and rotisserie;
Evoo Italian Cuisine: gourmet thin-crust pizza and other traditionally prepared specialties;
Rice Sticks Asian Kitchen: high-top noodle bar, hibachi grill and daily featured hot wok entrees
Uno Mas Fresh Mexican Flavors: made from scratch entrees, tortillas and salsa bar
Mosaic International: tapas (or small plate) selections from around the world; and
350 Degrees Baked Goods: pies, cakes, cookies, doughnuts and bread made by in-house pastry chefs and bakers.
"I remember seeing the construction last year and saying to myself, 'I wish it was open right now,'" said Nia Williams, a sophomore dental hygiene student sitting at a long table with several friends. "I can't believe it's open. I'm so excited."
Terence Brooks didn't get in a line for food right away. Instead, he took a 360-degree video with his cell phone as the crowd moved through the brightly lit seating area with a soundtrack of songs played at Old Dominion basketball games booming through loudspeakers.
"This is amazing. And I haven't even eaten yet," said Brooks, a junior park, recreation and tourism major.
During the grand opening, the Brodericks and senior University administrators donned white chef coats to mill about among the crowd handing out cupcakes and cookies. COO Harnage took a turn behind the grill, cooking bratwurst and chicken and beef for skewers.
The dining commons was named to honor Old Dominion's first family in response to an effort by student leaders to recognize the Brodericks' commitment to diversity and inclusiveness, as well as their compassion for students, staff and faculty of the University community.
"Simple thank yous don't compare to the gratitude and awe we feel in our hearts for this recognition," Kate Broderick told the crowd. "We are truly touched."
For more information on the Kate and John R. Broderick Dining Commons and meal plans, visit the Monarch Dining Website.