University of Richmond Dining Services Receives National Award for Organic Krush, Newest Retail Location on Campus

May 16, 2022

Pictured below: Terry Baker, executive director of dining services, Rachel Singer, chef manager of Organic Krush, and Maya Vincelli, assistant director for retail operations, celebrate the NACUFS 2022 Loyal E. Horton Dining Award.

UNIVERSITY OF RICHMOND — The National Association of College & University Food Services awarded the University of Richmond a 2022 Loyal E. Horton Dining Award. UR Dining Services received a “Gold” in the category of Retail Sales — Single Concept for Organic Krush, the newest retail dining location on campus.

The Loyal E. Horton Dining Awards are the ultimate professional tribute in college and university culinary arts. The awards celebrate exemplary menus, presentations, special event planning, and new dining concepts.

“Opening an all-organic concept furthered the retail offerings on campus and cemented our department’s commitment to healthy dining,” said Blake Widdowson, director of UR’s retail dining operations. “The fact that it has been successful, and that we have garnered this revered award, is fantastic recognition for the work of our staff.”

Photo of award“The University was already focused on well-being, but with the pandemic, the entire campus community has a renewed interest in healthy living,” said Terry Baker, executive director of dining services. “Organic Krush is the right concept for the right time, and the operation is thriving and growing.”

“This award is an industry standard for excellence in college and university dining, and we won the gold,” Baker added. “Achieving this top honor is a testament to the University’s commitment to providing exemplary dining options for our community.”

Organic Krush Café is located on campus in the Well-Being Center, which opened in January 2021. The café is a collaboration between the University and Organic Krush, which was co-founded by Richmond alumna Michelle Walrath and, in addition to Richmond, has locations in New York and Connecticut.   

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