Gannon University is a vibrant and dynamic educational institution located in Erie, Pennsylvania.
Founded in 1925, Gannon has grown into a comprehensive university known for its strong commitment to academic excellence and community engagement.
With a diverse student body of over 4,000 students, Gannon offers a wide range of undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across various fields of study.
The university prides itself on providing a personalized education experience, where students benefit from small class sizes and a low student-to-faculty ratio, allowing for individualized attention and mentorship from experienced faculty members.
Gannon University’s campus is nestled in the heart of downtown Erie, offering students access to a vibrant urban environment with numerous cultural, recreational, and professional opportunities.
The university’s commitment to service and leadership is evident through its extensive involvement in the local community and its emphasis on developing students who are not only academically proficient but also socially responsible.
Gannon University Meal Plans
With a strong foundation in liberal arts education and a dedication to innovation and research, Gannon University equips its students with the skills and knowledge necessary to succeed in an ever-evolving global landscape.
The university’s supportive and inclusive campus environment fosters personal growth, lifelong friendships, and a sense of belonging, making Gannon a place where students can truly thrive.
Types of Meal Plans at Gannon University
Gannon University offers a variety of meal plans to cater to the diverse needs of its students.
Whether you are a freshman, commuter, or upperclassman, there is a meal plan designed to suit your lifestyle and dietary preferences.
Here are the main types of meal plans available:
All Access + $200 GU Gold Plan
This plan provides unlimited access to the dining hall, specifically Beyer Hall, which is an all-you-care-to-eat facility.
Students can swipe once a day for unlimited meals, making it an excellent option for those who prefer flexibility and frequent dining.
Additionally, this plan includes $200 GU Gold per semester, which can be used at various on-campus dining locations. The cost for this plan is $4,180 per semester.
Golden Knight + $300 GU Gold Plan
The Golden Knight Plan offers 19 swipes per week, allowing students to enjoy up to three meals per day from Monday to Friday.
This plan also includes 5 guest meal passes per semester and $300 GU Gold for use at other dining spots on campus. The cost for this plan is $4,050 per semester.
Golden Knight + $150 GU Gold Plan
Similar to the previous plan, this option provides 19 swipes per week but includes $150 GU Gold instead of $300.
This plan is slightly more affordable, catering to students who might not need as many additional dining dollars. The cost for this plan is $3,900 per semester[1].
Block Meal Plans
For students who prefer a more flexible dining schedule, Block Meal Plans are available. These plans offer a set number of meals per semester, which can be used at any time.
Options typically include 150-block, 200-block, and 250-block plans, each with a specific amount of Dining Dollars for use at various campus dining locations.
Commuter Meal Plans
Designed for students who live off-campus, Commuter Meal Plans provide a limited number of meals and Dining Dollars.
These plans are ideal for those who only need occasional meals on campus. They offer the convenience of on-campus dining without the commitment of a full meal plan.
Dining Locations
Gannon University features several dining locations to enhance the student dining experience.
Beyer Hall is the primary dining hall, offering a wide range of meal options, including hot entrees, salad bars, sandwiches, and desserts.
Another popular spot is Doc’s Landing, where students can use their meal swipes for a variety of meal combinations, including main entrees, sides, and beverages.
By offering these diverse meal plans, Gannon University ensures that all students can find a plan that fits their needs and preferences, making campus life more convenient and enjoyable.
Dining Locations at Gannon University
Gannon University offers a variety of dining options to cater to the diverse tastes and dietary needs of its students, faculty, and staff.
Here are some of the key dining locations on campus:
Beyer Hall Cafeteria is a central dining spot known for its all-you-care-to-eat format.
It offers a wide range of options including signature entrees, a pizza and pasta bar, grilled selections, a soup and salad bar, a deli, a bakery, and cooked-to-order stations.
The cafeteria also features a dessert bar with eight types of ice cream.
Beyer Hall is perfect for those looking for a hearty meal at any time of the day, with breakfast, lunch, and dinner served during its operating hours.
Doc’s Landing, located in the Waldron Campus Center, is another popular dining venue.
It offers a variety of freshly made dishes such as build-your-own pizzas with options like fresh dough, cauliflower, and flatbread bases.
The menu also includes fresh baked goods, homemade soups, and a Bonfire Grill with items like breakfast sandwiches, chicken sandwiches, burgers, BLTs, and steak sandwiches.
Additionally, Doc’s Landing features globally inspired rice bowls, all available on the meal plan.
Chick-fil-A is also situated in the Waldron Campus Center and is well-loved for its famous Chick-fil-A® Chicken Sandwich.
This location provides high-quality, great-tasting food and accepts various payment methods, including cash, credit, and GU Gold.
It’s a convenient spot for students looking for a quick and delicious meal between classes.
InterMetzo Café can be found on the second floor of the A. J. Palumbo Building. This café specializes in Starbucks coffee and offers a variety of drinks made to order.
It’s a great place to grab a coffee and a snack while studying or meeting with friends.
Urban Brew is located in the Nash Library and serves Starbucks coffee along with unique healthy snacks.
The menu includes items like Jo’s Brooklyn Bagels, lettuce wraps, shaker salads, and freshly made smoothies.
Urban Brew is an excellent choice for those seeking nutritious options to keep them energized throughout the day.
These dining locations at Gannon University not only provide a variety of food choices but also emphasize fresh, locally sourced ingredients and cater to different dietary preferences, including gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options.
Whether you’re looking for a full meal or a quick snack, Gannon University’s dining services have something to offer everyone.
Meal Plans Prices at Gannon University (Table)
Here is a table detailing the meal plan prices at Gannon University for different categories of students:
| Meal Plan | Cost per Semester |
|---|---|
| First-Year Resident | $4,180 |
| Second-Year Resident | $4,050 |
| Third-Year and Above Resident | $3,900 |
| Commuter 75 | $3,915 |
| Commuter 50 | $3,765 |
| Commuter 25 | $1,890 |
How to Enroll your Meal Plan at Gannon University
Enrolling in a meal plan at Gannon University is a straightforward process designed to ensure that all students have access to nutritious and convenient dining options.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the enrollment process:
Access the Housing Portal
To begin, you need to access the housing portal. This portal is available online at https://knightsgannon.sharepoint.com.
The housing portal is your one-stop destination for all housing-related activities, including meal plan selection.
Log In and Navigate to Meal Plan Selection
Once you have accessed the housing portal, log in using your Gannon University credentials. After logging in, navigate to the section where you can select your meal plan.
This is typically found under the “Dining” or “Meal Plans” tab.
Choose Your Meal Plan
Gannon University offers several meal plan options to accommodate different needs and preferences.
Select the meal plan that best fits your lifestyle and budget.
Remember, all residential students are required to choose a meal plan, and second-year students must select the second-year resident meal plan option or a first-year resident meal plan.
Confirm Your Selection
After choosing your meal plan, review your selection to ensure it meets your needs.
Confirm your choice by following the prompts on the portal. You will receive a confirmation email once your meal plan enrollment is complete.
Make Changes if Necessary
If you need to change your meal plan after enrollment, you can do so by emailing Residence Life at [email protected].
Be sure to include your student ID and the details of the changes you wish to make.
Additional Tips
- Meal Equivalency: Understand how meal equivalency works at Gannon. For instance, one swipe at Beyer Hall allows you to choose any item with no restrictions, making it a great value for your meal plan.
- Unused Meal Swipes: Note that unused meal swipes reset every Saturday at midnight and do not carry over from week to week.
- Dining Dollars: GU Gold works like cash at all Metz locations and several other places on campus, adding flexibility to your meal plan.
By following these steps, you can easily enroll in a meal plan at Gannon University and enjoy the convenience and variety of campus dining options.
Dietary Restrictions at Gannon University
Gannon University takes the dietary needs of its students seriously, ensuring that everyone has access to nutritious and safe meal options.
The university’s dining services are managed by Metz Culinary Management, which offers a variety of meal plans and dining locations to accommodate different dietary preferences and restrictions.
Special Dietary Options
Metz Culinary Management provides a range of options for students with specific dietary needs:
- Vegetarian and Vegan: For students who do not consume meat or any animal products, there are numerous vegetarian and vegan dishes available. These options are clearly marked and can be found in various dining locations across the campus.
- Gluten-Free: Students who need to avoid gluten can find gluten-free meals and snacks. These items are prepared with no gluten-containing ingredients, although cross-contamination cannot be entirely ruled out.
- Dairy-Free: For those who are lactose intolerant or allergic to dairy, dairy-free options are also provided.
Nutritional Information
In Beyer Hall, the main dining facility, students can access nutritional information easily.
The Live Well program highlights items that are low in calories, sodium, and saturated fats, making it easier for students to make healthier choices.
Nutritional details are available on-demand via QR codes on digital menus, allowing students to check the nutritional content of their meals quickly.
Food Allergies and Sensitivities
Gannon University is committed to accommodating students with food allergies and sensitivities.
Students with specific dietary restrictions are encouraged to complete a Food Allergies and Sensitivities Form, which helps the culinary team understand and cater to their needs.
The dining staff is trained to recognize the severity of food allergies and make every effort to prevent cross-contamination.
However, due to the complexity of food preparation and the possibility of ingredient changes, the university advises students with severe allergies to carry their own epi-pens, as staff members are not trained to administer them.
Special Dining Events at Gannon University
Gannon University, located in Erie, Pennsylvania, offers a vibrant campus life enriched by various special dining events.
These events are organized in collaboration with Metz Culinary Management, the university’s dining service provider, ensuring a diverse and enjoyable culinary experience for students, faculty, and staff.
Annual Food Festivals
One of the highlights of the dining calendar at Gannon University is the Annual Food Festivals.
These festivals celebrate different cuisines from around the world, providing students with a taste of global cultures.
Each festival features themed decorations, music, and a variety of dishes that represent the culinary traditions of a specific region.
For example, the International Food Festival showcases foods from Asia, Europe, Africa, and the Americas, allowing students to explore new flavors and culinary practices.
Holiday-Themed Dinners
During major holidays, Gannon University hosts Holiday-Themed Dinners that bring the campus community together.
These events include special menus for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter, featuring traditional holiday dishes.
The Thanksgiving dinner, for instance, offers a classic spread of turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, and pumpkin pie, creating a home-like atmosphere for students who stay on campus during the holiday season.
Farm-to-Table Events
Gannon University also emphasizes sustainability and local produce through its Farm-to-Table Events.
These events highlight fresh, locally sourced ingredients and educate students about the benefits of eating sustainably.
The menus for these events are crafted to showcase seasonal produce, and students have the opportunity to learn about the farms and producers who supply the ingredients.
Special Dietary Events
Recognizing the diverse dietary needs of its student body, Gannon University organizes Special Dietary Events.
These events cater to students with specific dietary restrictions, such as gluten-free, vegan, and vegetarian diets.
The dining services team, led by Metz Culinary Management, works closely with students to ensure that their dietary needs are met while still providing delicious and varied meal options.
Cooking Classes and Demonstrations
To engage students in the culinary arts, Gannon University offers Cooking Classes and Demonstrations.
These sessions are conducted by professional chefs from Metz Culinary Management and cover a range of topics, from basic cooking techniques to gourmet meal preparation.
Students can participate in hands-on cooking classes, learn new recipes, and gain valuable cooking skills that they can use throughout their lives.
Cultural Heritage Dinners
Another popular event series at Gannon University is the Cultural Heritage Dinners.
These dinners celebrate the diverse cultural backgrounds of the student body by featuring traditional dishes from various cultures.
Each event is an opportunity for students to share their heritage and enjoy a communal meal that honors their cultural traditions.
These special dining events at Gannon University not only provide delicious meals but also foster a sense of community, celebrate diversity, and promote healthy and sustainable eating habits.
Through these events, Gannon University ensures that dining on campus is more than just a meal—it’s an experience.
FAQs
Q1: What meal plan options are available at Gannon University?
A: Gannon University offers several meal plan options to accommodate different needs:
- Unlimited Meal Plan: Provides unlimited visits to the on-campus dining hall.
- Block Meal Plans: Includes plans like the 150-block, 200-block, and 250-block, offering a set number of meals per semester.
- Commuter Meal Plans: Designed for commuter students with a limited number of meals and Dining Dollars.
Q2: Are meal plans mandatory for all students at Gannon University?
A: Meal plans are mandatory for all residential students. However, third-year and above students, as well as commuter students, have the option to purchase a meal plan, but it is not required.
Q3: What is the cost of meal plans per semester at Gannon University?
A: The cost of meal plans per semester varies:
- $4,180
- $4,050
- $3,900
- $3,915
- $3,765.
Q4: What dining facilities are available on Gannon University’s campus?
A: Gannon University offers several dining facilities, including:
- Beyer Hall Cafeteria: An all-you-care-to-eat dining option.
- Doc’s Landing: Another dining location where meal plans are accepted.
- Specialty dining locations like Chick-fil-A, InterMetzo, and Urban Brew.
Q5: How do meal swipes and Dining Dollars work at Gannon University?
A: Meal swipes can be used at various dining locations for a traditional meal, which includes a main entrée, side option, and beverage.
Dining Dollars work like cash at all Metz locations and several other places on campus, adding additional value to the meal plan.
Q6: What happens if I do not use all of my meal swipes by the end of the week?
A: Unused meal swipes reset every Saturday at midnight and do not carry over from week to week.
Q7: Does Gannon University accommodate special dietary needs?
A: Yes, Gannon University provides accommodations for students with allergies, food sensitivities, or special medical dietary needs.
Nutritional information is available on-demand via QR codes on digital menus, and students can filter daily offerings by allergens using the menu search feature.
Final Words
Gannon’s commitment to academic excellence is reflected in its low student-to-faculty ratio of 13:1, allowing for personalized attention and mentorship.
The university emphasizes a values-centered education, inspired by the Catholic Intellectual Tradition, which promotes faith, leadership, inclusiveness, and social responsibility.
This holistic approach prepares students to become global citizens who are well-equipped to make meaningful contributions to society.
In conclusion, Gannon University offers a supportive and enriching environment where students can thrive academically, socially, and personally.
Its unique blend of rigorous academics, strong community values, and vibrant campus life makes it an excellent choice for students seeking a comprehensive and transformative educational experience.