Warm Reception for Refreshed DC

Returning students created a buzz of excitement when they ventured into the newly renovated Westmont Dining Commons (DC). They were most excited about the adjoining outdoor patio, where workers installed an automatic sliding door from the dining room.

“We have also added two fire pits, multiple heaters, a shade structure and all-new furniture to make the patio more inviting throughout the year,” says Doug Jones, vice president for finance. “Additionally, the work done in El Tejado will increase flexibility in the menu, especially during the late-night hours.”

A dining area within the DC that’s open from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m., El Tejado bears the name of the original Dwight Murphy estate that Westmont purchased in 1945. 

The modernization project – funded mostly by Bon Appetit, the college’s food service provider since 2022 – cost $2.3 million. Bon Appetit contributed $1.8 million, and the Ahmanson Foundation added $500,000.

With new flooring, paint colors and lighting, and additional aesthetic touches in the dining room, the DC appears totally refreshed. “I was excited to see the new color scheme and the outdoor patio,” said David Shiang, president of the student government. “Can’t wait to spend more time with my friends here.”

While less visible, the complete renovation of the kitchen represents a remarkable transformation featuring all-new infrastructure.