For years, the Regina community has heard rumors about a possible cafeteria renovation. Now, the architectural plans are underway and the construction of Regina Dominican’s new cafeteria is in progress. After launching the Leadership Institute in 2013, Regina is ready for its second phase of its Gateway to Leadership Capital Campaign.

According to Joan Kitchie ’77, Vice President of Advancement, other than the dance studio and conditioning room, there have not been major renovations on campus since 1958. “We wanted something interactive for students, with technology, a stage, a place to eat, and even more: something that will enhance the future of Regina,” said Kitchie.

Canon Design, an architecture firm, sketched possible designs and eventually a final design was chosen.  Eventually, a layout was chosen  that the committee envisioned would be a perfect fit for Regina.

Over the summer, the floors in the cafeteria were replaced because of asbestos.  The official “ground-breaking day” or  construction in the cafeteria began Friday, December 19.  Executive Construction, Inc. (ECI) has been working steadily since the beginning of the year.  An extra bonus includes alum, Liza Dahmer-Jessen ’00 who is the senior project manager overseeing all aspects of the renovation.

Before construction began, the cafeteria space was divided into sections. Barrier walls were put up to section off areas without disrupting daily school life. The next steps include replacing the ceiling, installing air conditioning, reworking plumbing, and much more.  Regina’s new cafeteria is scheduled to be completed by the end of April.

“Everything is going really well and we are very excited. We want students and faculty to know that this is an investment for them,” said Kitchie.

The Regina community eagerly awaits this new space, which will be a combination of dining, theater, technology, and collaborative learning.