University of Indianapolis
The University of Indianapolis (UIndy) partnered with Quest to redefine its campus dining program and focus on fresh, flavorful, and student-centered food experiences. From the start, Quest set out to improve food quality, variety, and convenience while building stronger engagement with students, faculty, and staff.
Since the partnership began, Quest has transformed dining at UIndy through a major dining room renovation, creative menu development, local partnerships, sustainability initiatives, and modernized retail operations. The result is a vibrant dining experience that reflects both the university’s community spirit and Quest’s commitment to real food, personal service, and continuous improvement.
The Problem
Before Quest arrived, UIndy’s dining program faced several challenges. Students wanted higher-quality food, more options, and a campus dining experience that matched their expectations of modern college life. The C-store had limited offerings, and operating hours didn’t align with student schedules, leaving gaps in service during busy periods.
The program also lacked the technology and innovation students were accustomed to off campus—features like self-ordering kiosks, enhanced grab-and-go selections, and expanded retail variety. UIndy needed a partner that could deliver culinary excellence, operational efficiency, and a renewed focus on student engagement while maintaining financial responsibility and sustainability.
Quest’s Solution
Major Dining Room Renovation
The team from Quest partnered closely with campus leadership to transform the formerly closed-off dining hall into a vibrant, open-plan campus destination. After a two-year student listening tour, Quest incorporated meaningful feedback into both the physical design and menu strategy.
Key elements of the transformation include live-cooking stations, made-to-order seasonal features, and authentic global dishes. The removal of formal doors between the dining area and student center invites students to connect over a meal or simply congregate with other students and faculty. The result: a dining environment that’s now a true community hub and an integral part of the campus experience.
Expanding Retail and Convenience
Quest recognized that convenience and flexibility are essential for today’s students. The C-store underwent a complete transformation—from a small, limited selection of about 75 items to a fully stocked market with over 250 individual products.
The redesigned space now includes freezers, ice cream coolers, and a refrigerator filled with fresh; house made grab and go meals and snacks. Household essentials and late-night items were also added to create a true convenience experience.
Quest also expanded hot and cold grab and go items, giving students quick access to balanced meals throughout the day. These changes have dramatically increased student satisfaction and participation, especially among commuters and student athletes with tight schedules.
Sustainability and Local Partnerships
Quest wove sustainability into every aspect of the dining program. The reusable coffee cup discount program encourages students and staff to reduce waste by bringing their own cups. The initiative has gained steady participation while supporting UIndy’s campus-wide sustainability goals.
Quest also partnered with local farms for produce & meat, and coffee roasters and bakeries, offering monthly drink specials and seasonal favorites that connect students to Indianapolis’ local food culture. These small touches of regional flavor add authenticity and variety while reinforcing Quest’s commitment to supporting local businesses.
Student Engagement and Collaboration
A cornerstone of Quest’s success at UIndy is its deep partnership with the campus community. Student and faculty feedback directly shapes dining decisions—from menu innovation to hours of operation.
Quest collects student feedback through online tools and monthly advisory meetings, ensuring that ideas are heard, evaluated, and implemented. Quest consistently shows that student voices drive meaningful change.
Faculty and administrative feedback also play a key role, particularly when introducing new service models or menu updates. Quest’s transparent communication process ensures that all stakeholders are informed and engaged, building excitement and trust across the campus community.
Technology and Innovation
Quest’s forward-looking approach includes introducing modern technology to make dining faster, smarter, and more efficient. Current initiatives include:
- Self-checkout systems in retail areas for faster service.
- Smart vending machines offering fresh grab and go meals 24/7.
- Digital waste tracking tools to measure sustainability progress and reduce food waste.
These innovations enhance the dining experience, improve efficiency, and align UIndy’s dining program with the expectations of a digitally connected student population.
The partnership between Quest and the University of Indianapolis has transformed the dining landscape, bringing together fresh food, operational excellence, and genuine collaboration with the university community.
Through upgraded menu concepts, expanded retail options, and a strong focus on feedback and sustainability, Quest has created a dining experience that reflects the culture and energy of UIndy.
Looking ahead, the focus is on innovation—introducing more technology, expanding hours and access, and continuing to raise the bar for quality and engagement. Together, Quest and UIndy are building not just a great dining program, but a model for what modern higher education dining can achieve: a balance of creativity, convenience, and community.