Campus Dining and Shops (CDS) has been awarded a Grand Prize in the 2024 Loyal E. Horton Dining Awards sponsored by the National Association of College and University Food Services (NACUFS).

The award, given in the category of Retail Sale — Retail Dining Concept of the Year, recognizes Sabor Latino, the fast-casual restaurant in the Student Union that serves authentic Latin American lunch entrées and desserts. The restaurant, which opened in January, serves nearly 800 guests each week.

The award was announced July 20 at a luncheon during NACUFS’ national conference in Louisville, Ky.

CDS had received a gold award in the category in June, and the Grand Prize recognizes the top entry in the category from all entries submitted.

The entry highlighted all the major components of Sabor Latino, including menu and meal, facility design and merchandising, marketing, nutrition and wellness, and overall “wow factors.”

“It is a tremendous honor to be recognized by our peers,” says Eric Blackledge, CDS executive director. “These awards are among the most prestigious national honors in higher education food services and are a reflection of the incredible talents and hard work of our dedicated staff.”

This marks the fifth Grand Prize award and ninth overall award that Campus Dining and Shops has received from NACUFS.