Marywood University, through its partner, Gourmet Dining, recently won the gold award in a national dining contest for “Catering – Special Event of the Year,” putting the university in contention for the grand prize in this category.

Marywood captured the top prize for last year’s galaxy-themed 10^th annual Community Leadership Celebration, which was held on May 4, 2023, a date that has become known as “Star Wars Day” in pop culture. The signature fundraising event of the year proved to be a perfect setting for this stellar theme. The Gourmet Dining team worked diligently to highlight the powerful vision of the university celebration in a futuristic way through the menu and decorations chosen.

“This event and this award is a true testament to the synthesis of how collaboration with many amazing professionals helped to make the night a success, blended with creativity and culinary artistry that transported our guests on an out-of-this-world culinary experience and created an unforgettable night,” said Jinny Savage, Director of Dining Services at Marywood University.

The prestigious recognition was part of the 2024 Loyal E. Horton Dining Awards, sponsored by the National Association of College & University Food Services (NACUFS). The Horton Dining Award is considered the ultimate professional tribute in college and university culinary arts. Named after a NACUFS founder, past president, and highly regarded innovator, the award celebrates exemplary menus, presentations, special event planning, and new dining concepts. Grand Prize winners will be announced on Saturday, July 20, during the NACUFS 2024 National Conference in Louisville, Kentucky.