Kent School
Dining Hall and Student Center Project
A New Home for Dining and Community
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In March Kent School begins a significant renovation of the Dining Hall and Student Center—two of the School’s most active community spaces and central to daily life on campus. Designed to honor Kent’s character while meeting the needs of today’s students, these renewed spaces will be more functional, welcoming, and flexible, improving the flow of the academic day and creating natural, inclusive opportunities for connection. |
“The renovated Student Center and Dining Hall will be lively gathering places that support student well-being. Designed to be bright and welcoming, they will offer space to connect with friends, share meals, and pause amid the rhythm of daily boarding school life."
Michael G. Hirschfeld, Head of School
Project Details
The Student Center will be transformed into a contemporary hub for student life, featuring an updated snack bar, new gathering areas, and a patio that connects indoor and outdoor space. The Dining Hall Servery will be redesigned to address congestion, modernize aging infrastructure, and enhance food service and efficiency. The Dining Hall will remain as it is now, with the addition of a new pavilion where the current patio is located—an airy, light-filled space with expansive windows that opens onto the dining area. A new indoor staircase will also connect the Dining Hall to the Student Center, creating seamless flow between these key community spaces. Construction is set to begin this spring, with completion anticipated in the fall of 2026.
“Kent has a long tradition of excellence, and the current student experience is truly extraordinary. The renovation is another step toward making Kent the best possible experience for current and future students.”
Mike Smerklo P'27 '27, Trustee
History of the Dining Hall
Supporting Kent
We are grateful to our alumni, parents, and friends whose generosity brings Kent’s community spaces to life. Your support not only makes projects like this possible but also helps shape the experiences of current and future students. To learn how you can continue to be part of Kent’s story, please contact Director of Advancement Greg Carter '95 P'28 '28 at carterg@kent-school.edu.