UNCW Receives Silver Medals in Dining Excellence Recognition

UNCW Dining was the recipient of a 2025 Loyal E. Horton Award and a Nutrition Award in recognition of its outstanding commitment to dining excellence by the National Association of College and University Food Services. 

UNCW earned silver medals in the Retail Sales: Single Concept of the Year category of the 2025 Loyal E. Horton Dining Awards and in the Special Diet Program of the Year category of the 2025 Nutrition Awards. 

Often regarded as the gold standard in collegiate dining, the Loyal E. Horton Awards recognize excellence in dining programs at colleges and universities across the country. UNCW Dining received recognition in the Retail Sales: Single Concept category for success with the new concept, Heirloom. Located in the University’s Fisher Student Union, Heirloom uses locally sourced ingredients and features a curated menu that changes with the seasons.  

The Nutrition Awards recognize the outstanding nutrition and wellness programs implemented within collegiate foodservice programs. Led by registered dietitian Joe Bush, UNCW Dining strives to provide an inclusive dining experience that meets the needs of its diverse student population.  

"Earning these honors is a testament to our team's dedication to innovation, inclusivity and student-centered dining,” said Gino Galutera, associate vice chancellor for Business Services. “These awards reflect our commitment to offering high-quality, locally inspired food while meeting and exceeding the diverse dietary needs of our campus community. Congratulations to everyone involved — this recognition is well deserved." 

UNCW Dining boasts over 20 locations across campus, run by a creative and innovative team of classically trained chefs, advised by an on-campus registered dietitian. 

"We’re so honored to bring home two NACUFS awards this year! It’s a real testament to the hard work, creativity, and passion our dining team brings to campus every day. At UNCW, we’re all about creating great food and a welcoming experience, and it feels amazing to have that recognized” said Keith Griffin, director of hospitality of UNCW Dining.