Nationally Awarded. Locally Loved.
We’re thrilled to announce that the University of Minnesota Duluth’s Dining Services has received a Silver Loyal E. Horton Dining Award from the National Association of College & University Food Services (NACUFS) in the Residential Special Event category — one of the most prestigious honors in campus dining.
The award recognizes our Multicultural Dinner Series, a monthly collaboration between UMD Dining and student cultural organizations. Each event brought a different group’s heritage to life through food, with menus crafted side-by-side with our chefs. Students led the charge — selecting recipes, participating in tastings, and transforming the dining center with traditional decorations to create an immersive cultural experience.
“This award means so much because it recognizes what we value most — collaboration, education, and inclusion,” said Betsy Helgesen, Director of Dining Services. “Students had the opportunity to share their stories through food, and our team had the privilege of supporting them in creating a space that was welcoming, celebratory, and full of learning.”
From South Asian curries to Latinx comfort food to global samplers from every continent, the dinners challenged our chefs to master new cooking techniques and deliver authentic, high-quality meals that honored every student group’s identity.
“Working with the students was the best part of this entire series,” said Channie McCall, Executive Chef. “They brought so much passion and knowledge to the table, and it pushed our team to grow right alongside them. We explored new ingredients, practiced unfamiliar techniques, and truly honored each culture by making the food as authentic and delicious as possible.”
The series created space for celebration, education, and connection — and now, it’s a nationally recognized success.
