FRANCISCAN DINING FAQs

 

FALL 2025 DINING CHANGES

Why are meal plans changing?

We’re updating our meal plans based on valuable feedback from students. These changes aim to better align the plans with current campus dining programming and ensure the costs are comparable to similar institutions. Our goal is to provide options that meet students’ needs and preferences while maintaining affordability and quality.

How was student feedback used in this process?

Both the University and Parkhurst leadership have been proactively collecting student feedback about meal plan satisfaction and usage for years leading up to this change. This includes surveys, focus groups, discussions with student government leadership, our dining council representatives, and more.

What program changes to the dining locations can we expect?

We’re most excited about enhancements to the continuous dining model in Antonian. This means that even in between peak meal times, students are able to find a variety of great food options, while being mindful of managing waste and creating the bandwidth for our team to change over between meal periods.

Starting this fall, you can join us for ‘late lunch’ and find fresh pizza and baked pastas from the Oven, build-your-own pasta dishes at Bravo, made-to-order sandwiches and small plates at the Deli, in addition to the soup and salad bar for infinite custom creations!

Who was involved in the process?

We’re grateful to Franciscan University leadership, the FUS Student Government Board and our RAs for their ideation, insight, and advocacy for the changes and enhancements!

How are these new plans different than the ones before?

Instead of a large, bulk number of meal swipes for the student to budget use of throughout the 15-week semester, the new plans offer a weekly allotment of swipes. This will reduce pressure to manage their swipe balance over the entirety of the semester, but also ensure access and availability of swipes to the end. That brain fuel is so critical during final exams and presentations!

What does the meal plan cost really cover?

The cost of a college meal plan supports more than just meals—it helps cover the dedicated team members who prepare and serve food, the high-quality ingredients, the utilities to maintain safe and welcoming dining spaces, and the operational needs that ensure a convenient and reliable dining experience.

How often does University leadership review meal plan offerings and pricing?

Our meal plans options had not seen significant change in more than 10 years, and a lot has changed in that time! Mobile ordering was introduced, dining locations were renovated, new offerings were added. We’re confident these new plans are better fit for the campus’ scope.

Who can help me choose the right meal plan for me?

We know students have different dining habits, preferences, and lifestyles that influence selecting the meal plan that will fit them best.. Our Parkhurst management team would be happy to help guide you!

 

 

 

GENERAL FAQs

What is the difference between Flex Dollars and Dining Dollars?

Flex Dollars are included with your meal plan, while Dining Dollars are a supplement to your student debit account and can be added at anytime.

Can I use my meal swipes outside of Antonian?

Yes, a set amount of your weekly meal swipes can be used for a meal exchange bundle from The Pub or Christ the Teacher. Up to 5 swipes from our resident meal plans can be used each week, and apartment Baron Bag Members can use up to 3 each week in our retail locations.

I have an idea, request or comment for making the dining program better. How can I share that?

Our virtual comment card is always available to capture your compliments, cravings, and comments. Each message is immediately delivered to members of our management team so they can review, respond, and take action as needed. We love to hear from you!

 

 

 

Franciscan University of Steubenville
1235 University Blvd.
Steubenville, OH 43952
740-283-6274