Edward Waters University is set to unveil its newly renovated dining hall on September 25, 2024. This marks a significant milestone for the campus community. The ambitious renovation project modernizes a 53-year-old facility. It doubles as a tribute to the legacy of the late Bishop McKinley Young, a revered leader within the EWU community.
Since its construction in 1971, the dining hall had remained largely unchanged until renovations began in 2022. The revitalized space has been transformed into a modern culinary hub, featuring an expanded main dining area, a late-night campus grill, and a dedicated faculty and presidential dining room. Additionally, the renovation addressed crucial accessibility concerns by incorporating elevator access and handicap restrooms.
“The completion of this much anticipated campus capital project is a transformative moment for our university and a fitting tribute to the late Bishop Young’s legacy,” said Dr. A. Zachary Faison Jr., president and CEO of EWU. “We are excited to provide our campus community with a dining experience that is befitting of our emerging eminence and that reflects our commitment to incubating a best-in-class living and learning environment for our deserving students, faculty, and staff.”
A $3.45 Million Dining Experience
This renovation project marks a significant partnership with SodexoMAGIC, an initiative chaired by NBA legend Earvin “Magic” Johnson. Notably, this collaboration represents SodexoMAGIC’s first engagement with a historically Black college or university in Florida. Initially announced as a $2.2 million investment in April 2022, the total funding grew to $3.45 million as SodexoMAGIC worked alongside university administration to address evolving student needs.
Bishop McKinley Young, who passed away in 2019, was a prominent figure at EWU, having served as chair of the EWU Board of Trustees and as the senior bishop of the African Methodist Episcopal Church. His dedication to service and education left a lasting impact on the university. By naming the dining hall in his honor, EWU ensures that his legacy will continue to inspire and uplift future generations of students.
The school will celebrate the unveiling from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. on Wednesday, September 25, at the George N. Collins Student Union Building. The event will feature remarks from university leadership, along with guided tours of the new facility, allowing attendees to experience firsthand the enhancements made to this essential campus resource.
