Eureka College
Eureka College, located in central Illinois, is a small but dynamic institution known for its strong sense of community and student engagement. When Quest launched its partnership with Eureka, the goal was to enhance the dining experience through expanded access, increased variety, and a renewed commitment to sustainability.
The collaboration focused on improving participation, elevating the quality of offerings, and aligning the dining program with the values of the campus community. Through expanded hours, new menu options, and local partnerships, Quest has helped transform the dining program into a more accessible, environmentally responsible, and student driven experience.
The Problem
Eureka’s dining program faced challenges common to smaller colleges: limited dining access, outdated practices, and a need for variety and freshness in meal offerings.
Key challenges included:
- Limited Access – Students wanted more flexible dining hours and options to fit their academic and activity schedules.
- Sustainability Concerns – The program relied on disposable carryout containers, creating excess waste and misalignment with student expectations for environmental responsibility.
- Lack of Variety and Local Connection – Students sought more diverse food options, better retail offerings, and partnerships that reflected the college’s local character.
Quest saw the opportunity to reinvigorate the dining experience by focusing on convenience, quality, and values-based service.
Quest’s Solution
Quest approached the program with a comprehensive plan to expand access, modernize operations, and promote community collaboration.
Expanded Access and Participation
Dining hours were extended to give students greater flexibility and make dining spaces more accessible throughout the day. With additional service periods and a broader range of meal options, students now have more opportunities to enjoy freshly prepared food on their own schedules.
This change has already resulted in greater student participation and stronger engagement with dining staff and spaces across campus.
Commitment to Sustainability
One of the most visible improvements has been the elimination of disposable Styrofoam containers in favor of reusable options. This initiative significantly reduced dining-related waste while reflecting the college’s sustainability goals. The move also strengthened student pride in the program, reinforcing the idea that campus dining can be both convenient and environmentally responsible.
Enhanced Menus and Local Partnerships
Quest partnered with an area coffee vendor to bring fresh, locally sourced beverages to campus and to strengthen the college’s connection to the surrounding community. The addition of smashburgers in the retail outlet also became one of the most popular menu updates, offering a fresh, made-to-order experience that resonated with students.
Quest introduced an updated catering menu designed to support on-campus events and attract external clients, including conferences and community gatherings. This expansion is helping Eureka position its dining program as both a campus resource and a hospitality asset.
The Result
Quest and Eureka College have built a revitalized dining program that reflects the values of the campus community: sustainability, access, and quality. By expanding hours, introducing reusable containers, partnering with local vendors, and refreshing retail and catering offerings, Quest has created a dining experience that is both student focused and forward looking.
Through collaboration and innovation, Quest is helping Eureka College create a dining program that feels fresh, local, and distinctly its own.