For some college students the fare offered on campus is not quite what they are looking for. It might not suit their diet or it may not be grown as close to home as they would like.
The Campus Beet at Western Michigan University wants to address their needs.
A group of about 25 students -- 15 working as core group and 10 who participate whenever they can -- are dedicated to the establishment of a student-run cafe that would support Southwest Michigan's local food movement, cater to students with limited diets and provide a space students can call their own, says Amelia Stefanac. She's a member of the cafe steering committee along with Olivia Rappel and Caleb Oliver.
Stefanac says the group is focused on building support for the cafe. At the same time, one of its members also is seeking internships already available on campus that can be plugged into the cafe.
So far, finding the local sources of food for the cafe has been the easiest part of the project, Stefanac says. "Everyone has so much to offer and is so supportive of the project," she says.
The group is advised by Executive Director for Campus Sustainability Dr. Harold Glasser and has received advice and support from WMU's Head Chef of Catering Services, and the Dietetics Internship Coordinator.
It grew out of work done for Dr. Glasser's class that began in 2007 premised on the idea the campus can be a living laboratory for sustainable practices.
The first Campus Beet event to build support for the effort took place in January and drew about 100 people. The next event, scheduled for April 8 is expected to bring in about 400. Free food and entertainment will be available from 5-8 p.m. April 8 in the East Ballroom of WMU's Bernhard Center.
Writer: Kathy Jennings
Source: Amelia Stefanac, The Campus Beet, Dr. Harold Glasser, Western Michigan University
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