Events with Food

Recognized Student Organizations must use the University of Dayton’s Catering Services if they are to have food or beverages served at events in Kennedy Union or on the Central Mall.

• No food or drinks are allowed in the Boll Theatre, Chudd Auditorium, or O’Leary Auditorium.
• Groups bringing food into the Adele Center are responsible for cleaning up and emptying their trash into the dumpster.

We are excited to partner with your student organization and want to help you make the most of your budget! Catering can support food needs of events at any campus location.  To take advantage of our special packages and Early Order Discounts, please finalize your menu selections within the following timeframes:

• 10 Business Days in Advance: Meals, Receptions, and Large Deliveries
• 5 Business Days in Advance: Pickups, Breaks, Bag Lunches, and Small Deliveries

Getting your orders in early gives our team the time we need to perfectly prepare for your event. It also helps us guarantee that we have the kitchen space, staff, and delivery vehicles available for your date. Because we want to give every student event the high-quality food and service it deserves, our calendar can fill up quickly, so reach out early! We would love to hear about what you are planning. Whether you know exactly what you want or need some creative ideas, please reach out to Catering Services at 937-229-2216. We look forward to working with you!

The University has partnered with America to Go (through Runway) to facilitate catering from local restaurants.   Organizations should use America to Go when seeking catering outside the University in approved locations.

Recognized Student Organizations are permitted to host bake sales and food-based fundraisers on campus to raise money for group operations or approved philanthropic causes. Because these events involve distributing non-catered food items directly to the public, organizations must adhere to strict ingredient-labeling and safety protocols.

• Ingredient Labeling Requirements

• Itemized Lists: Every item sold or distributed must have a complete, visible list of all ingredients used in its preparation.

• Donated/Homemade Items: Require all members who donate or bake items to provide a comprehensive ingredient list prior to the event.

• Store-Bought/Purchased Items: Display the original packaging, manufacturer label, or a printed list of ingredients alongside the item.

• No Guarantees on "Safe" Foods: Never label an item as "allergen-safe" or "guaranteed nut-free," as cross-contamination can occur in home kitchens during baking or transport.

Preparation & Handling Standards

• Packaging: All items must be individually wrapped or packaged prior to the sale (e.g., individual plastic wrap, sandwich bags, or containers) to prevent contamination and unnecessary handling.

• Sanitation: Students staffing the table must practice proper hand hygiene and utilize gloves or utensils when handling packaged food items.

• Temperature Control: Perishable baked goods requiring refrigeration (such as cream-filled pastries, cheesecakes, or meat-filled items) are prohibited at standard bake sales due to food temperature safety risks. Exceptions can be made if proper food safety protocols can be met.

The University hosts food trucks on campus a few times each year. For more information, contact the Center for Student Involvement. The usage and partnerships with local food trucks is allowed on campus but the following must be followed:

• Food trucks must be hosted by a recognized student organization, and the event must be registered in 1850.
• Food trucks must be on public roads and must be legally parked or part of a campus event in partnership with UD Procurement.
• Food trucks cannot use any University utilities and cannot plug into the electrical outlets.
• Vendors must have adequate licenses and documentation from Public Health for Dayton and Montgomery County.