Colleges and universities honored for excellence

Colleges and universities honored for excellence in dining, nutrition, and sustainability at NACUFS 2025 National Conference 

Grand prize winners advance student well-being, operational innovation, environmental stewardship

College and university dining teams across the country were recognized today for setting the standard in student-centered foodservice, as the National Association of College & University Food Services (NACUFS) announced the grand prize winners of its 2025 Loyal E. Horton Dining Awards, Nutrition Awards, and Sustainability Awards. The awards were presented at a special luncheon during the NACUFS 2025 National Conference in Salt Lake City. These awards celebrate the creativity, leadership, and dedication of campus dining professionals who are redefining the student experience through exceptional food, inclusive programs, and innovative practices.

Loyal E. Horton Dining Awards

Named for a NACUFS founder and trailblazer in collegiate foodservice, these awards recognize operational excellence and innovation in dining. The 2025 grand prize winners in nine categories are:

• Cal Poly
  • Innovative Dining Program of the Year
  • Outreach & Education Program of the Year
• Boston College
  • Catering Program of the Year
• Brigham Young University – Hawaii
  • Residential Special Event of the Year
• Duke University
  • Retail Sales: Single Concept of the Year
• University of Florida
  • Renovation of the Year
• University of Pittsburgh
  • Residential Dining Facility of the Year
• University of Texas
  • Catering Special Event of the Year
• Washington and Lee University
  • Employee Development Program of the Year

NACUFS 2025 Nutrition Awards

Recognizing programs that prioritize wellness, student health, and dietary inclusion, this year’s grand prize winners are:

• University of Maryland
  • Wellness and Nutrition Program of the Year
• University of North Carolina - Charlotte
  • Special Diet Recipe of the Year

NACUFS 2025 Sustainability Awards

These awards highlight how dining services can lead environmental and social responsibility efforts on campus. This year’s grand prize winners are:

• University of Vermont
  • Sustainable Procurement
• Georgia State University
  • Waste Reduction 

“These awards celebrate the people and programs shaping the future of collegiate dining,” said Robert Nelson, NACUFS president & CEO. “From sustainability to nutrition to innovation, our members are building stronger, more responsive foodservice communities that reflect the evolving needs of today’s students.” 

Gold, silver, and bronze awards in each category were announced earlier this year in June.

To learn more about the NACUFS awards programs and view the full list of winners, click here.