Passaic Today

Montclair State University, Gourmet Dining LLC, and Saxbys have come together to introduce The Saxbys Experiential Learning Platform, a student-run cafe aimed at providing hands-on entrepreneurial experiences for students. The cafe is set to open on April 2, 2024, at 10 a.m. on the first floor of the Feliciano School of Business building.

Nick Bayer, Founder and CEO of Saxbys, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating, “Montclair University’s commitment to co-curricular learning for all students aligns seamlessly with Saxbys commitment to providing transformational opportunities for the next generation of leaders and entrepreneurs. Through The Saxbys Experiential Learning Platform, this innovative partnership will undoubtedly drive student success while creating career-ready graduates ready to lead.”

Dawn Meza Soufleris, vice president for Student Development and Campus Life at Montclair State University, echoed Bayer's sentiments, emphasizing the importance of delivering top-notch entrepreneurial and experiential learning opportunities to students. She added, “When students lead and run every aspect of the cafe, it brings excitement to campus dining choices, and to the overall campus vibe. The concept and fun menu is also going to be another game-changer regarding student engagement. Food is life. It’s one way we universally connect with each other. This will quickly become one of the busiest and favored campus hang-out locations on our campus at Montclair, run by our students and for our community.”

The collaboration was facilitated by Gourmet Dining, Montclair’s on-campus dining service provider. Anthony Frungillo, executive vice president of Gourmet Dining, highlighted the company's dedication to engaged learning and community service, stating, “Gourmet Dining is a huge advocate of engaged learning and serving the community. It is our goal to bring together great partners that can mutually benefit each other. In this case, Saxbys and Montclair were a perfect fit.”