Dining Center Renovations Conclude

Derby Dining Center Will Reopen for Spring Semester

Dec. 18, 2020 ­­— A newly renovated Derby Dining Center is scheduled to open for the spring semester at dinner on Friday, Jan. 25.

The renovations include a new entry on the southeast corner of the building, newly configured community space on the first floor, a new single entrance to the food service area and a new open dining experience on the second floor. Updates to the heating, air conditioning and fire safety systems were also completed. The Bakery — reopen date pending — will continue to operate on the first floor with a new customer service counter in addition to the online ordering services popular across campus and throughout the Manhattan community.

Built in 1965, the dining center was named after reference librarian Grace Derby. It serves the students who live in the residence halls on the east side of campus, including Smurthwaite Scholarship and Leadership House. Derby is home to the beloved annual “Derbsgiving” Thanksgiving dinner, and has hosted numerous prominent chefs over the years through Dining Services’ Culinary Enhancement Workshop series.

Construction will be ongoing in some areas, but residents can expect to enjoy full meal service. To learn more about the renovation project, visit the Derby construction page .

Dining services is hiring students to fill open positions at Derby and Kramer dining centers. Learn more and apply online .