After Commencement, changes will arrive at the Hemmingson Center. The beloved Starbucks, marked by its green siren, will be replaced by Thomas Hammer Coffee, a local favorite.
Suzie Mize, AVP of Auxiliary Enterprises, and Pat Clelland, Director of Sodexo, explain that this shift has several benefits. The costs of maintaining the Starbucks franchise were rising, while the returns for the university were limited. Additionally, it’s common for university cafes to refresh their offerings every three to five years. Since the current setup has been around for over a decade, it was time for a change.
The new coffee bar also brings back a familiar face. Thomas Hammer (’91, ’93 M.B.A.) began his coffee journey at 18, right around the time he started at Gonzaga’s School of Business Administration. Bud Barnes, the former dean, helped guide him through his MBA, becoming a crucial mentor.
This partnership isn’t just about coffee; it also supports local business. By choosing Hammer, Gonzaga strengthens the community. Local coffee means fresher and tastier brews for students.
Mize and Clelland emphasize that this collaboration enhances financial responsibility while enriching the student experience and connecting with the community.
Key Points:
- Starbucks will close right after Commencement weekend.
- Thomas Hammer will temporarily operate from the Qdoba space during the summer as a new coffee bar is built.
- The new coffee spot will open in the fall, with options for people accustomed to ordering ahead.
Exciting times ahead! For more info on local business impacts, check out resources from the SBA.
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Thomas Hammer, Hemmingson, Gonzaga, Zags, students, coffee
