MUHLENBERG COLLEGE DINING POLICY

Muhlenberg Dining Philosophy Statement

Muhlenberg College values the dining services program as a critical part of creating a healthy lifestyle. Within this, Muhlenberg Dining recognizes the importance of holistic well-being and works to provide food that not only supports an individual’s physical health, but aids in the development of an inquisitive and healthy mind. As part of a successful and active student union, Muhlenberg Dining offers excellent and unique experiences through creative and cultural menu planning, expert food preparation, and innovative presentation.

As an important part of Muhlenberg’s learning community, each of our dining environments incorporate transparent facilities and inviting, upscale casual dining opportunities in support of learning and socialization.

Muhlenberg takes pride in providing a nutritionally balanced, appealing selection of food to meet varying needs, desires, schedules, and lifestyles of students, faculty, staff, and guests through unique and engaging experiences.

I. MEAL PLANS

A. Available Meal Plans and Descriptions

Students on campus or in the Alpha Tau Omega house are required to have a meal plan unless they are living in a residence hall that has a different eligibility (See Meal Plan Eligibility Policy for details). For a complete list of meal plans and descriptions, please click here.

B. Meal Plan Eligibility Policy

Meal Plans provide cost effective access to the Dining Program through various dining options and is able to accommodate a wide array of student dietary needs and lifestyles. Eligibility takes into consideration housing accommodations as well as the health and safety of our students.

To reference the complete Meal Plan Eligibility Policy and to determine which meal plan you are eligible for, please click here.

To contact Muhlenberg Dining Services, please call 484-664-3488.

C. Meal Plan Activation and Access

Meal Plans are only accessible when the College is in academic session.

Fall Semester meal plans, including Dining Dollars, are activated at dinner on Saturday of orientation weekend.

Spring Semester meal plans, including Dining Dollars, are activated at 10:00 a.m. on the Sunday before the start of classes.

To view the Academic Calendar, please click here.

All meal plans are terminated at 12 noon on the Saturday following the last day of finals. Posted hours of operation for dining venues during Break Weeks and Finals Weeks include information regarding the acceptance of meals and dining dollars.

Meal plans, including Dining Dollars, are not active during pre-season athletics, Orientation and the week between Finals and Commencement. Meal plans including Dining Dollars are not accessible during breaks including: Thanksgiving Break, between Fall and Spring Semester, Spring Break and Easter Break. Please note: Meal access ends at 12 noon on the Saturday following the last day of finals.

D. Menus, Hours of Operation and Door Rates

For menus, hours of operation and door rates for all dining venues, please click here.

E. Changing Your Meal Plan

Meal plan changes are permitted only Monday through Friday during the first two weeks of classes each semester. Changes are made through the Student Housing Portal or by contacting Housing & Residence Life via email at housing@muhlenberg.edu.

F. Dining Dollars

Dining Dollars are included with each Meal Plan except the Traditional Plan and are used on a declining balance basis. Dining Dollars are accepted at the GQ, Java Joe, LSC Café and may be used for entrance to the Wood Dining Commons.

Within the academic year, unused Dining Dollars will roll over from the Fall Semester to the Spring Semester. However, they will not rollover from the Spring Semester to the Fall Semester and will result in forfeiture. Dining Dollars may not be used to purchase gift cards. For more information about opening a ‘Berg Bucks Account and to view our ‘Berg Bucks Policy, please click here.

NOTE: Students and/or families may open a ‘Berg Bucks Account online. ‘Berg Bucks can be used on-campus at dining venues, the ‘Berg Bookshop, vending machines, copy machines and on-campus laundry facilities in major residence halls.

G. Guest Privileges

Meal Plan Members have the option to pay for friends or guests by use of Swipes or Dining Dollars, through the Gold, Silver, Bronze and Cardinal meal plans. Platinum meal plan members have 10 Guest Swipes to use at their discretion. Food shared with or given away to those who are not on a meal plan is prohibited unless using the aforementioned Guest processes.

H. Missed Meals

From years of experience, Muhlenberg College Dining Services understands that not all meals available within a meal plan will be utilized by every student. These missed meals are taken into consideration when the costs of the Meal Plans are determined and the price of the plans is reduced accordingly. Students who choose not to utilize their meals during the allotted periods will not be reimbursed or credited for any unused portion of their meal plan.

I. Specific Venue Policies

For specific venue policies and courtesies, please click here.

II. MUHLENBERG CATERING

A. Changes/Guarantees/Cancellations

All cancellations and/or changes referring to the menu, count, and event arrangements must be confirmed five (5) days prior to the event. Functions canceled within five (5) days of the event may incur a charge. We will prepare for the estimated number and charge accordingly should a final count not be confirmed.

B. Payment

All catered functions must be secured by payment before they occur. Departmental Accounts, Checks, Visa, MasterCard or American Express are all valid payment methods.

Non-Venue, Non-College groups are required to make a deposit of 75% two weeks prior to their event with the balance due five (5) days prior to the event.

A Guest Count under the minimum (12 guests) may incur a $25.00 charge. A Delivery Fee of $25.00-$50.00 may apply to events off campus.

Non-College groups are subject to a 20% Service Charge and 6% Tax for all events. Tax Exempt organizations are required to submit a copy of their exemption certificate prior to their event.

C. Linen

As a standard, we provide tablecloths for all food and beverage tables. Linens for guest tables are included with full service plated breakfast, lunch, dinner and buffets.

Linens for guest tables at receptions, continental breakfast, breaks and meetings and boxed lunches can be provided at an additional charge. The same applies to registration tables, nametags, head tables and any additional tables that will not be directly used for food and beverage set up.

Linens may also be requested at an additional cost for events that do not require catering but may need the tables to be covered. This may include, but not be limited to, meetings, interviews and panel discussion tables.

Other linen colors, depending on availability, may be placed as special orders. Specialty linens are also available for your food and guest tables at an additional cost. Please set up an appointment with catering, catering@muhlenberg.edu, to discuss your options.

D. Attendants

To ensure that your event is a success, catering attendants will be provided for all served meals, buffets and most receptions.

If additional time is needed, a fee of $25.00 per hour, per attendant, will apply.

E. Service Staff

Continental breakfasts, breaks, and most receptions are priced for self-service. Buffet style functions are staffed with one attendant for every 25 guests and are included with the per person price. For all served meals, waitstaff is included.

F. Catering Equipment

As the host of the catering event, you are responsible for the equipment we have provided for the service of your catered event. Any missing or damaged catering equipment or supplies will be charged to your account at replacement cost. For very large events, specialty equipment may need to be rented at an additional charge.Events

G. Floral Charges

We will be happy to order, receive and handle specific floral and decorative requests for an additional fee determined in accordance with your specific needs.

H. Food Safety

Due to food safety liability, guests may not remove food from the function site.

I. Internal Events

Before a catering quote can be provided for an on campus event, you must have a 25Live confirmation for your event’s location. In an effort to effectively support and manage the many meetings and events that occur every day on the Muhlenberg campus, a completed online 25Live space request must be submitted to the Office of Student Life & Campus Events at least fourteen (14) business days prior to the event date.

For questions about or assistance with scheduling a College space and associated resources, or hosting a College recognized event off campus, please contact the Office of Student Life & Campus Events at 484-664-3494. Upon approval and receipt of a 25Live confirmation, Red Door Catering at Muhlenberg College will be happy to provide a quote for your catered event.

The No Frills Catering Guide is designed to be an economical choice for groups on a budget. It is the responsibility of the group to pick up, set up and clean up the event. For health and safety reasons, no food should be left unattended following the conclusion of the event. Failure by a group who does not dispose of trash related to the No Frills Catering may incur additional housekeeping charges.

Please visit our website here to review our Catering guide, then contact a catering representative at 484-664-4030 or email us at catering@muhlenberg.edu. Be sure to have your departmental or organizational account information accessible.

J. Meal Credit for Catered Events

Muhlenberg Dining will extend one meal credit, in exchange for one meal swipe from an active meal plan owned by a student, toward a Muhlenberg Dining Service catered event, hosted on campus by a College academic or administrative department or a recognized student organization. The swipe will apply toward the cost of one catered meal at the designated event. One credit per person, per catered event is permitted.

Obtaining permission to use meal credits in exchange for a swipe from students is the responsibility of the department or student organization hosting the catered event. Students are not required to participate in the Meal Credit program nor can student organizations require students to participate in the program.

To participate in the Meal Credit program, please complete the form on our catering website and email it to catering@muhlenberg.edu. The following information must be provided:

a. Student’s Name

b. Student’s Muhlenberg ID Number

The sponsoring department or organization must provide Muhlenberg Dining Services with this information at least seventy two (72) hours prior to the event. Muhlenberg Dining will deduct the predetermined amount from the per-person price. The balance of the cost for each meal, meals not eligible for a meal credit deduction and any other associated costs will be billed to the sponsoring department or student organization.

NOTE: A meal credit is determined by “plate cost”, or the amount of food typically consumed by the average individual in the Resident Dining Program (the Wood Dining Commons or the Mule Express) during a meal. The value of a meal credit may change prior to each academic year and will be determined prior to the start of the fall semester for the academic year.

K. External Events

For Clients interested in an on campus catered event, before a catering quote can be provided for an on campus venue for an External Event, a space and associated resources need to be contracted with Muhlenberg College’s Conference Services and Events (CSE) Office.

To book a meeting, program or event on the Muhlenberg College campus, please contact a CSE representative at 484-664-3810 or email us at ces@muhlenberg.edu.

Upon the College’s acknowledgement of your event inquiry and tentative availability, Muhlenberg Dining Services may then be contacted to begin making catering arrangements. We recommend that you visit our website to become familiar with our Catering Guide, then contact a catering representative at 484-664-4030 or email us at catering@muhlenberg.edu.

Please note that confirmation of our catering services for your event is not available until CSE is in receipt of a fully executed Muhlenberg Facilities Agreement along with the deposit.

For clients interested in off campus catering, please visit our website to become familiar with our Catering guide, then contact a catering representative at 484-664-4030 or e-mail us at catering@muhlenberg.edu.

Catering arrangements and menu selections should be confirmed within at least five (5) days prior to your event. While we can sometimes accommodate your needs with less lead time, sufficient notice allows us to schedule production and staffing.

After we have finalized all the details of your event, you will receive an event sheet to confirm with a signature. Please carefully review all information on this event order form for accuracy and completeness before signing. Make any necessary changes, sign and return to us five (5) business days in advance of the event.

L. Policy on Exclusivity – Muhlenberg Dining Services is the College Approved Food Service Provider

Muhlenberg College Dining Services is the campus approved food service provider and shall have the right of first refusal to provide food and beverage for events being held on campus. Muhlenberg Dining Services shall provide all catering services for College approved functions in Seegers Union such as receptions, banquets, private parties, refreshment services, and carryout service.

Requests for exception may be considered under the follow criteria:

a. College departments and/or recognized student organizations host an event where the food is donated by a third party provider and no funds are exchanged for services by the third party provider.

b. A reasonable alternative to provide a specific food or food related service cannot be accommodated.

c. Events where a specific level of cultural or religious authenticity is an integral part of the program cannot be accommodated.

Requests to be considered for authorized exceptions must be submitted in writing fourteen business days prior to the event and must be sent to diningcomments@muhlenberg.edu. The request will be reviewed for consideration by the General Manager and the culinary team to determine whether an exception can be made.

M. Facility Exemptions

Muhlenberg College departments and student organizations may use the following locations to host an event with food service provided by Muhlenberg Dining Services or a third party caterer, carry-in, and potluck meals:

● Hoffman House

● Home of the President

● ML Underground

● Multi-Cultural Center

● Hillel House

● All Residence Facilities (Residence Halls, MILE Houses, Etc.)

N. Expectations for Authorized Exceptions & Facility Exemption

College departments and student organizations who are approved for exceptions and/or use third party alternatives agree to the following expectations:

1. Third party caterers must be approved by the Conference Services and Events Office and Muhlenberg College Dining Services fourteen days prior to the event.

a. Third party caterers are required to provide a certificate of Insurance naming Muhlenberg College as additionally insured.

b. Third party caterers may not utilize College owned kitchens or kitchen equipment to prepare food. These areas may be used only as a staging area.

c. Kitchens are to be left in clean and organized condition.

2. College departments and student organization hosting events where food is brought in (i.e., third party catering, carry-in, delivery, potluck meals, etc.) are responsible for:

a. Provision of any and all serviceware, dishware, glassware, utensils, napkins, etc.

b. Removal of all food, beverages and trash.

c. Kitchens, service areas and dining areas to be left in clean and organized condition.

3. Costs to restore facilities not left in clean and organized condition will be assessed on the sponsoring department or student organization.

4. Please report any damage or need for repairs to the Office of Student Life and Campus Events at the conclusion of your events at TeamSeegers@muhlenberg.edu.

O. External Events and Clients

All external groups hosting events on Muhlenberg College property are required to use Muhlenberg Dining Services for all food and beverage service. Please contact Conference Services and Events at 484-664-3810 for additional information.

III. STUDENTS WITH MEDICAL NEEDS

A. Dining Services PreScreening Questionnaire

Muhlenberg College students who consult with Dining Services personnel about questions or concerns related to dining services options, food sensitivities, etc. will be asked to complete a Dining Services PreScreening Questionnaire (which will be given by Dining Services). Information obtained on the Questionnaire provides a prompt for additional dialogue with the Dining Services personnel. This process can also facilitate a referral to other campus Departments for more discussion and activity.

B. Special Dining Services Request Process

Muhlenberg College has a continuing obligation to make reasonable modifications in policies, practices and procedures for students with disabilities who may have medical needs related to dining.

Muhlenberg College students with a documented medical condition that may significantly and directly impact the ability to fully utilize or access dining services, are encouraged to review and complete all components of the Special Dining Services Policies and Procedures. When making an application for specialized dining services, a student must review the General Information and submit the Special Dining Services Request Form, along with supporting medical documentation to the Office of Disability Services.

For students who have been determined eligible through this process, a Special Dining Services Accommodation Plan will be individually developed in a collaborative process that includes the student, Director of Health Services, Representative of Dining Services, the Director of Disability Services and other campus representatives, as appropriate.

NOTES:

a. It should be noted that documentation of a medical condition does not guarantee that a request will be approved.

b. Situations such as diets for weight loss and personally elected dietary restrictions (vegetarian, pescatrian gluten free, etc.) generally do not warrant special dining services accommodations through this process, as these are considered lifestyle choices and not conditions consistent with a determination of disability.

c. Students may consult with Dining Services Registered Dietitian to discuss non-medical situations related to wellness promotion and nutrition by emailing diningcomments@muhlenberg.edu.

C. Food Allergen Notification

Dining Services will post prominent notices concerning the eight most common food allergies* at each of its student food eatery facilities; the notices are clearly displayed and will provide the following information:

*Food-Allergic Individuals: Be aware that we handle and prepare egg, milk, wheat, shellfish, fish, soy, peanut, tree nut products, and other potential allergens in our cafes and kitchens. Before placing your order, we encourage you to inform the food server that you have a food allergy.

Students with food allergies that require dietary accommodations should follow the Special Dining Services Request Process above in Section B.

IV. YOUR MUHLENBERG COLLEGE ID CARD

Your Muhlenberg College ID card is not transferable. It must be carried with you at all times, and presented upon request. It is the property of the College and must be returned to Seegers Union upon your separation from the College. Meal Plan participants must present their card at each meal. Food service privileges are not transferable. A $25.00 replacement fee is assessed if your card is lost, stolen, or mutilated.

A. Meal Access With Your Muhlenberg College ID Card

Muhlenberg College uses an ID Card that incorporates access to your meal plan and ‘Berg Bucks. This card contains a magnetic strip that is encoded with data that will activate the readers at the Dining Service Venues.

A selected meal plan, Dining Dollars and ‘Berg Bucks, are entered on ID Cards and are used each time students dine on campus. Your ID Card should be treated like a credit card. It is valuable, so protect it. You must present your meal card to the cashier at each meal. For additional information, please reference the Muhlenberg Meal Plan Eligibility Policy.

B. Muhlenberg College ID Card and Meal Plan is Nontransferable

Students are welcome to entertain guests that are dining with the Meal Plan participant via a swipe, paying the meal price with cash, Dining Dollars or ‘Berg Bucks.

Falsifying, altering, or misusing your or anyone else’s ID card in any way is strictly prohibited (i.e., letting someone else use your card, you using someone else’s card or attempting to sneak guests into any dining venue without paying, etc.) and are violations of the “Muhlenberg College Student Code of Conduct”. Any incident of misuse will be forwarded to the Conduct Officer for appropriate disciplinary action through the Muhlenberg College Conduct System.

C. Forgot Your Muhlenberg College ID Card

You have two options if you forget your ID Card and want to gain access to meals:

1. Return to your room and get it.

2. Pay cash for that meal and save the receipt. We will refund your money upon presentation of your card and the receipt within 48 hours. No exceptions are permitted.

D. Lost, Misplaced, or Damaged Your Muhlenberg College ID Card

Report a lost or stolen card immediately to the Office of Student Life & Campus Events, 484-664-3494 or the Campus Safety Office, 484-664-3112. Once reported, your card will be instantly invalidated preventing unauthorized use. New cards can be obtained in the Campus Safety Office. Take good care of your card. The price of a replacement card is $25.00.

V. WE CARE!

The Muhlenberg College Dining Service team is committed to providing the best in terms of atmosphere, menu selection and customer service. We strive to meet our goals and exceed your expectations. To achieve this, an open line of communication is essential. Your ideas and suggestions are always appreciated.

Please feel free to call or better yet to stop in and see us in person.

A. Comments/Suggestions

If you have a suggestion or concerns related to your dining experience or the ding program, please let Dining Services management know. There are several options for you to use:

1. Dining Services Management: Our managers and supervisors are always available to assist customers. Take a few minutes to talk with them, to get the fastest response to your concerns.

2. Napkin Board: Comments posted on the Napkin Board are responded to by the Dining Services Management within one week, unless your comment contains offensive and inappropriate language (such comments are thrown away). These responses are posted directly on the Napkin Board and remain there for one week.

3. Customer Loyalty Surveys: Once a semester, Muhlenberg Dining uses a third party to survey its services for students, faculty and staff. The results are an integral part in building and improving our program.

4.“Muhlenberg Dining” Facebook Page & “BergDining” Instagram Page: We communicate events, answer questions, and advertise any deals going on here. Make sure to follow us so you are always updated on a daily basis.

Service issues should be addressed with the on-duty supervisor or manager immediately. If you do not receive satisfactory response or satisfaction, ask to speak with the General Manager of Muhlenberg Dining Services or please call 484-664-3488. If the situation warrants further action, please contact the Executive Director of Campus Life Operations at 484-664-3338.

Revised: 12/06/2023 14