As students returned to campus this month and the fall semester kicked off this week, they were greeted by the familiar sights and faces of Longwood—except at one key spot where they spend much of their time: Dorrill Dining Hall.
Yes, Ms. Betty, the beloved meal card swiper, is still there. But D-Hall, as it’s affectionately known, underwent a major refresh over the summer, transforming it with a lighter, brighter and more modern look that brings a friendlier, more welcoming vibe to the space in the heart of campus where students gather for meals.
At a ribbon cutting to celebrate the new look and feel on Monday, President W. Taylor Reveley IV described the occasion as a great opportunity “to celebrate the past and delight in the future.” One aspect of the past he was referring to was the naming of Dorrill Dining Hall in September 2004 in honor of Dr. William Dorrill, Longwood’s 23rd president, who served from 1988-96.
“Another amazing thing is that we are celebrating 70 years of partnership between Aramark and Longwood,” said Reveley, adding that the university is proud to have been the food service company’s first client. Aramark undertook the renovation of the dining hall over the summer.
“This is where Aramark got its start, and that’s something we treasure,” Reveley said. Aramark treasures that connection as well, said Dr. Matt Rogers, Aramark’s regional vice president. “Seventy years is a long time, and it’s not something we take lightly.”
All this reinforces the appropriateness of the “Longwood University’s Recipe for the Community” theme of Monday’s grand reopening event, which featured fun activities such as cookie decorating for students.
Speaking to the students on hand, Rogers said: “Most of your memories at Longwood will come to pass here, and the memories you make in this space will last long past your time at Longwood. This is your kitchen table.” He also invited students to share with Aramark any special recipes from home.
Student Government Association President Cameron Lowery ’27, an elementary education major, echoed Rogers’ sentiment.
Food is probably the most unifying force on campus. This dining hall isn’t just about eating—it’s where friendships start, clubs brainstorm, late-night study groups refuel and, yes, where some of us might ‘accidentally’ swipe our card four times in one day. No shame.
Cameron Lowery '27, Student Government Association president
“Food is probably the most unifying force on campus,” she said. “This dining hall isn’t just about eating—it’s where friendships start, clubs brainstorm, late-night study groups refuel and, yes, where some of us might ‘accidentally’ swipe our card four times in one day. No shame.”
All those memories are now being made in a space that has had a significant makeover.
The renovation included installing all new flooring on the main level of D-Hall, updated lighting fixtures, refinished ceilings and new furniture throughout. A major architectural change was the removal of the wall separating the seating area from the food service area, creating an open view from the entrance to the back wall.
The main seating area, called the arcade, features all new tables, chairs and booths, including more soft seating and tables that can be configured in a variety of ways—including smaller seating for two or four people. There are community seating areas on either end of the arcade, which feature a large high-top table with chairs as well as couches. Two beverage stations are located opposite the main seating area for easy access.
Student input was important in several aspects of the refresh, said Joy Presley, director of operations for Aramark. She noted that students voted to pick the new tables and chairs through a survey in the spring.
One of our goals was to really promote a sense of community here. We know the dining hall is more than just a place to eat—it’s where friendships are formed, conversations spark between classes and the sense of community truly comes to life.
Joy Presley, Aramark director of operations
“One of our goals was to really promote a sense of community here,” said Presley. “We know the dining hall is more than just a place to eat—it’s where friendships are formed, conversations spark between classes and the sense of community truly comes to life.”
Presley also noted that the new décor puts a special emphasis on Longwood traditions. Large floor to ceiling photo murals featuring campus traditions such as The G.A.M.E., Color Wars and Oktoberfest will eventually adorn the walls in several locations.
Among the biggest improvements accomplished by the refresh are accessibility and speed of service. The salad bar, as well as other self-serve areas, is much easier to reach. Gone are the extended countertops, which meant food set back from the edge. Self-service food now sits closer to the edge for ease of reach.
The True Balance station, which features a menu that is friendly to guests with food allergies, has been expanded and will now offer both hot and cold food, including made-to-order items and soup. The Global Kitchen station has been redesigned for more efficient service during high-traffic times, with new and improved equipment and better menu selections. A new breakfast nook features all day pancakes and other morning favorites. The dessert area has been updated with more display space and rotating selection of baked goods and culinary confections.
The lobby area, where students enter D-Hall, also underwent a transformation. The area where Ms. Betty greets students and swipes their cards is now more open and welcoming, with new flooring, bright accent colors and comfortable seating where students can wait for friends or take a quick break between classes. A digital screen has been added to share menu updates, campus announcements and student highlights.
Tour the newly renovated dining hall
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