In addition to providing the Kent community with nourishment and nutrition, the Dining Hall acts as a central hub, encouraging strong connections among dedicated staff. Their hard work extends beyond the kitchen, creating an environment where interaction and connection thrive, providing a distinctive dining experience for the entire community. 

Director of Dining Services Darin Hudson and his meticulous planning set the stage for serving the "800-strong community." Operating daily from dawn until dusk, the team navigates a continuous cycle of preparation, execution, and cleanup, adapting to the ebb and flow of a diverse community. "Production for a community of this size requires planning, organization, and forethought," Hudson asserts, emphasizing the team's commitment to delivering excellence. 

Student-facing staff embrace their role as ambassadors, embodying warmth and connection. According to Dining Services Manager Meghan Duncan, "They are the welcoming faces engaging with students and employees, inquiring about their days and uplifting spirits with kind words or encouragement while serving food." Beyond the visible ambassadors, an equally dedicated cohort operates behind the scenes. “They work hard each day to produce the delicious food that defines the dining experience,” Duncan adds. “They make sure there are clean dishes and that our menus are posted and our orders received.”

Daily connections during mealtimes contribute to a sense of belonging. Associate Director of Dining Services Mark Goslee sees the Dining Hall not just as a venue but as a familial space. "Many of us in the Dining Hall connect with staff and students daily, creating a sense of one large family," he explains. Hudon adds, “The Dining Hall is the main gathering place for the community. It is an opportunity to interact, give thanks, and connect with other members of the community during a time when they are away from the pressure and distraction of their job responsibilities.”

Executive Chef Lori Alderman stands at the heart of this culinary family, playing a pivotal role in daily food operations. "I love what I do here," she says. “To know that a good meal can make someone’s day brighter or better brings me joy.” Cherishing smiles and thank-yous from students, Alderman appreciates the impact she has on their daily experiences at Kent.

Recognizing the integral role the Dining Hall plays for the entire community, Hot Line Cook Chris Malinowski emphasizes the importance of accommodating diverse preferences and dietary needs, "Everybody needs to eat. Regardless of culture, preferences, and dietary needs, we try to accommodate everyone as best we can.”

The dedication and creativity of the kitchen staff, exemplified by Stir Fry Cook Apple Kennedy, contribute to the lively atmosphere. Kennedy's joy in connecting with students from her home country adds a personal touch, creating a sense of community. "I am from Thailand, and it is nice to see the students who are also from Thailand,” she says. “I get to meet their parents and it’s helpful for them to have someone who speaks their language and who is from their community." 

Malinowski's fondness for holiday celebrations enriches the overall dining experience, making it unique and memorable."We get great joy in decorating and dressing up for Halloween,” she says. “It gives us a sense of pride to come up with a theme and make it come to life. I love seeing the reactions of staff and students when they see the servery and our costumes on Halloween."

Alderman describes the unity and teamwork that translate into a positive experience for the students. "I consider my coworkers my brothers and sisters. I am very close with most of them," she shares, expressing hope that the camaraderie among the staff shines through, contributing to the warm and welcoming atmosphere defining the Dining Hall.

The camaraderie among the Dining Hall staff serves as the backbone of the community, creating an inviting atmosphere. The connections and interactions within the Dining Hall significantly contribute to the overall dining experience, transforming it from a mere place to eat into a central part of the Kent School community's shared identity and spirit.