John Pence Retirement

Retirement Reception for John Pence

Aug. 27, 2019 — Housing and Dining Services marks the end of an era with the retirement of John Pence, senior associate director for dining services, after 56 years of service. A reception will be held from 3:30 to 5 p.m. Friday, Sept. 20, at the K-State Alumni Center’s Tadtman Board Room.

Since joining the housing and dining services staff in 1963 as a graduate student, Pence has served as a licensed and registered dietitian, manager of K-State's dining centers, and instructor in the Department of Food, Nutrition, Dietetics and Health. He held several roles on the housing and dining services management team, most recently serving as senior associate director.

Pence, well-known and respected throughout the university foodservice industry, has received many honors over his distinguished career: the National Association of College and University Food Services Theodore W. Minah Distinguished Service Award (2000); the International Foodservice Manufacturers Association Silver Plate Award (1987); the National Association of Food Equipment Manufacturers Doctorate of Foodservice Medallion (1987); and the National Association of College and University Food Services Meritorius Service Award (1981, 1983, 1985). Pence served as president (1986-87) and treasurer (1979-85) of the National Association of College and University Food Services.

In recognition of his many contributions to the development of the department’s retail efforts, JP’s Sports Grill at Jardine Apartments and Union Station by JP’s in the K-State Student Union are named for Pence.

Housing and dining services looks forward to honoring a leader that has helped shape the dining experience of generations of K-State students, faculty and staff, and invites you to join the celebration.