Chartwells Higher Education Partners with Landmark College to Enhance Neuroinclusive Dining Experiences Nationwide

As the campus dining experience continues to evolve, Chartwells Higher Education has announced a groundbreaking partnership with Landmark College to create a comprehensive approach to neuroinclusive dining experiences across colleges and universities in the United States. This pioneering initiative aims to foster welcoming and supportive environments that cater to the diverse sensory and social needs and preferences of students. With approximately 53% of Gen Z identifying as neurodivergent, and this number projected to reach 70% or more for Gen Alpha, Chartwells is adapting its approach to meet the unique and evolving needs of its students.

Key Takeaways:

• The partnership between Chartwells Higher Education and Landmark College aims to create a comprehensive approach to neuroinclusive dining experiences across colleges and universities nationwide.
• The initiative responds to student feedback, with one in five students expressing interest in neurodivergent-friendly community sensory spaces, and the same number interested in table cards indicating openness to meeting new friends.
• Key features of the initiative include flexible seating and social cues, sensory-friendly design, atmospheric zones, consistent and transparent food options, and robust to-go options.
• The program is designed as an overall approach for campuses, with residential dining serving as a core component.
• Chartwells intends to partner closely with schools on programming and promote existing university services that support neuroinclusivity, such as tutoring or test-taking support.
• The company is implementing comprehensive training for its associates to better support neurodiverse guests, including specific guidance for back-of-house teams on food preparation and "safe foods."

Statistics:

• Approximately 53% of Gen Z identify as neurodivergent.
• This number is projected to reach 70% or more for Gen Alpha.
• One in five students expressed interest in neurodivergent-friendly community sensory spaces.
• The same number of students are interested in table cards indicating openness to meeting new friends.
• Chartwells currently serves over 320 colleges and universities in the United States.

Sources:

• Chartwells Higher Education
• Landmark College