Grand Opening of Jerry and Martha Schmitt Dining Hall at Belmont Abbey College set for Monday, February 12, 2024

February 6, 2024

Grand Opening of Jerry and Martha Schmitt Dining Hall at Belmont Abbey College set for Monday, February 12, 2024

Belmont Abbey College and Chartwells Higher Education partner on state-of-the-art facility

[Belmont, NC]:  Belmont Abbey College, in partnership with food service provider Chartwells Higher Education Dining, will hold a special ribbon cutting ceremony for the newly renovated Jerry and Martha Schmitt Dining Hall located on campus Monday, February 12, 2024, at noon. The special ribbon cutting will officially open Belmont Abbey College’s newest dining room expansion. Plans for the ceremony include a blessing of the facility by Abbot Placid, Chancellor of Belmont Abbey College, a presentation of the Dedication Plaque to donor Martha Schmitt, and recognition of local dignitaries and guests.

This latest expansion at Belmont Abbey College meets the current needs of the enrolled students and faculty members and includes a brand-new Deli Station as well as an interactive Student Choice Station.  In addition, the new facility will include an Allergen-Friendly station as well as an enticing Dessert Station.

In addition to the expanded stations and selections, the facility will feature communal seating, a specified area called “Abbey’s Lounge” where guests can relax with their friends, and weekly programming in the space with events such as Chef led Teaching Kitchens, Karaoke Nights and Fancy Fridays, a monthly program that gives students an opportunity to experience a high-end dinner.

Belmont Abbey College President Dr. William Thierfelder, the Belmont Abbey College Board of Trustees, and representatives from the Archdiocese of Charlotte are just a few of the dignitaries scheduled to be on hand.

President Thierfelder conveyed sincere gratitude to Chartwells and expressed profound thanks to Jerry and Martha Schmitt for their invaluable contribution to the college. “We are thrilled to unveil the newly renovated Jerry and Martha Schmitt Dining Hall. This expansion will greatly enhance the dining experience of our students, faculty, and staff, providing them with a modern and inviting space to enjoy their meals. We are truly grateful to Jerry and Martha Schmitt for their generous support of the college.”

The ribbon-cutting ceremony will take place at the new entrance to the expanded Jerry and Martha Schmitt Dining Hall on campus, followed by a tour of the new facilities. The Belmont Abbey College Food Services staff will provide special items and refreshments to all guests. 

“We are thankful for the opportunity to work with Belmont Abbey College in partnership with Chartwells, we look forward to fun, fellowship, and food,” said Jordan Haywood, General Manager of Belmont Abbey Dining.  “Our team is eager to begin service in such a beautiful dining hall.”

“On behalf of myself and my classmates, I am extremely excited to see the newly renovated Dining Hall,” said Honora Long, Belmont Abbey College Student Body President. “This has been a greatly anticipated project, and I know myself and the entire student body have enjoyed seeing the progress of this renovation. I am incredibly grateful to Chartwells for making our Dining Hall a great place for students to gather and connect every day. I would also like to thank our wonderful construction crew for working tirelessly to bring us this space for both current and future Crusaders to enjoy.” 

Press Inquiry Contact: 

Sarah Bolton                                                                                                        Ryan Murray

Marketing Project Manager                                                                               District Marketing Manager

Belmont Abbey College                                                                                     Chartwells Higher Education

704-461-7016                                                                                                      336-430-7233

SarahBolton@bac.edu                                                                                        Ryan.murray@compass-usa.com

Download the press release.