Meet The Dining Services Staff
Dining Services is a large department comprised of many different locations spread out all over campus. We would love to hear from you, so please feel free to contact us!
Jump to one of these locations: University Center | Holmes Dining Hall | Tobey-Kendel Dining Room
Dining Services Main Office
The Dining Services Main Office is located on Central Campus in the North wing of Tobey-Kendel Hall, Room 120. Our normal hours of operation are 8:00am - 5:00pm, Monday through Friday.
Hal Brown, FMP
Director of Dining Services
phone: (970) 351-1967
email: hal.brown@unco.edu
I have always been around food, whether it's farming, growing and producing it, cooking or managing it... or just enjoying eating it!
I have been at the University of Northern Colorado for over 25 years. In 1982 when I came to UNC, I started working as a student in Dining Services. I received my Bachelor of Arts degree in Food and Nutrition with emphasis in Food Service Management from UNC in 1987. I currently serve as the Director of Dining Services.
I provide leadership to the Residential Board Plan, which serves around 1,000,000 meals annually in Holmes Dining Hall, Tobey-Kendel Dining Room, and the University Center Food Court. We also have multiple Retail Dining operations that are both national and in-house brands, campus snack & beverage Vending, Athletic & Non-Athletic Concessions, Catering, and Senior Meals for the Weld County Area Agency on Aging.
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Chef Aran Essig, CEC, CCA
Certified Executive Chef &
Certified Culinary Administrator
phone: (970) 351-1938
email: aran.essig@unco.edu
"What do you eat at home?" I'm asked that question quite often. Dining Services also asks our guests the same question. With such a diverse campus population, it is only natural that our menus and food offerings are just as diverse as those that we serve.
I started in restaurants at the age of 14 and have not looked back. I love to work with food, create new dishes, explore new foods and see guests happy. I work with a team of great chefs, cooks, and culinary professionals here at UNC to create menus, recipes, conduct staff trainings and work diligently to ensure customer satisfaction and the safety of the products and services we offer our guests.
I am a graduate of the International School of Culinary Arts in Denver Colorado. Originally from Michigan, I have worked in various restaurants and Country Clubs in Michigan and Colorado. I am an active member and past president of the Colorado Chefs Association, active member of the American Culinary Federation, Certified Culinary Administrator and Certified Executive Chef.
To answer that question of what I eat at home, it is the same as what I eat here at UNC…good food made with care for those it is served to.
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Jenny Larson
Assistant Director
for Catering, Retail Dining, and Concessions
phone: (970) 351-1983
email: jennifer.larson@unco.edu
I graduated from Iowa State University in Ames, Iowa in May 2002 with a Bachelor of Science in Hotel, Restaurant, & Institution Management. My first “real” job was as a Catering Assistant Manager at Iowa State University for their Off-Site Catering department. When my husband was offered a position at Greeley Harley Davidson in Colorado, we jumped at the chance to move to our favorite state!
My first career in Colorado was as the Director of Catering for Catering by Kenny’s for three years and then I moved on to UNC as Manager of Tobey-Kendel Dining Hall in September 2005. Six months later, I found myself in the position of Assistant Director of Catering, Concessions, Retail Dining, and Vending... and have been here ever since.
I love my job because I get to work with a wide variety of people from the Greeley community, campus community, and as one of the largest employers on campus: STUDENTS! My job keeps me on my toes as we are always reviewing our operations, revising our menus, and opening new stores (Munchy Mart convenience store in the University Center) to meet the ever-changing demands of our clientele.
When not busy at work, I love to fill my time snowboarding, reading, mountain biking, and riding... of course, a Harley!
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John Wieser
Business Manager
phone: (970) 351-1962
email: john.wieser@unco.edu
As the Business Manager for Dining Services, I oversee the department’s operating budget. I am responsible for financial reporting and forecasting used to monitor the department’s current fiscal performance and to make informed financial decisions affecting the department’s future fiscal performance.
I received my Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with an emphasis in Management from UNC in 2005, and I have worked for UNC both as a student & as a full-time staff member since 2002.
I am a Colorado native and love spending time outdoors.
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Bob Baxley
CBORD FSS Coordinator
phone: (970) 351-2646
email: bob.baxley@unco.edu
Hi, my name is Robert A. Baxley III... aka Bob, APG, or Dude.
I have worked in UNC Dining Services for over 20 years. I am a 1989 graduate of UNC with a BS in Business Administration with an emphasis in Accounting.
I currently coordinate technology needs for Dining Services, as well as CBORD FSS (Food Services Suite -- the system we use that contains all of the food and recipes we prepare).
In my spare time I enjoy playing softball and spending time with my family. I am married to Laura and we have 3 children Adrianna, Krue, and Kian... and Heidi our Jack Russell Terrier. I also enjoy supporting UNC Athletics. GO BEARS!
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JoAnn Doherty
Program Assistant
phone: (970) 351-2658
email: joann.doherty@unco.edu
It seems truly amazing to think about (or even admit) it, but I have worked at UNC Dining Services since I was 18 years old! I started out as a student working part-time in the dining room, and I just never left. While here at UNC, I earned my bachelor's degree in Psychology -- and to be honest, I think I use those skills every single day! After graduating from UNC, I decided there wasn't anywhere else I wanted to be, so I made Dining Services my "home away from home"... and I've been here ever since! (For those of you keeping track, that means I've been here for over 17 years!)
When I have spare time, I enjoy watching movies, reading "who done it" books, capturing priceless moments in pictures, and laughing with my friends. I am also very excited to be a part of the American Cancer Society's Relay For Life committee here in Weld County. I am currently the Online Chair, and I've just recently been invited to join the ACS Great West Division's Online Task Force. Being a volunteer for ACS has been a truly great experience, and I hope I'm a part of the "Relay family" for a long time!
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Judy Friend
Administrative Assistant to the Director
phone: (970) 351-1967
email: judy.friend@unco.edu
I was raised in Sterling, CO and studied Business Administration in college. I joined the UNC Dining Services team in 2008 as an assistant to the Director, and there has never been a dull moment.
Did you know that Dining Services provides more than 500 jobs to students, administrative, classified, and temporary employees? Last year, we served over one million meals combined in the dining rooms, catered events, retail dining at the University Center and the Weld County Senior Meals program.
One of the best parts of my job is being a member of such a diverse team of culinary and administrative professionals and…we have a lot of fun!
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Lisa Bowker
Administrative Assistant
phone: (970) 351-2666
email: lisa.bowker@unco.edu
I am a Kansas native, born and raised in a town that had 1 stoplight and 2,500 residents. After living there most of my life, I moved to Greeley with my husband Nathan in November 2008. It’s incredible to think that I now live close enough to the mountains that I can see them on a daily basis, or travel there at a moment’s notice.
My children are my absolute pride and joy. My daughter Rebecca is currently attending K-State, and she recently married her high school sweet-heart, Brodie. My son Ryan attends high school in Kansas, and recently got his first job and his learner’s permit. (Watch out if you’re driving through Kansas!) My husband and I have two pugs (Astro & Lilah) and a Chihuahua (Izzo), and they are spoiled rotten. My hobbies include spending time with family & friends, photography, reading, Facebooking, and going up to Rocky Mountain National Park. Oh –- and I’m a HUGE Denver Nuggets fan!!!
I began working for Dining Services in July 2009, and I can honestly say I love it here! Though I had not worked in a university environment before, I have found that if you truly care about people and want to help them achieve their goals, this is the perfect place to be!
back to Dining Services Main Office
Lee Nelson
Maintenance
phone: (970) 351-2652
email: lee.nelson@unco.edu
I have been at UNC for over 4 years now. My job in Dining Service covers anything maintenance-related for all of Dining Services... including all of the dining locations, the UC Food Court, Catering, Retail Dining, and Concessions.
I went to University High School here on the UNC campus as well as Aims Community College. I am married to Jan... and we have 2 kids, Ashlee and Brandon. In my spare time during the summer, I am a Wrangler for the Greeley Stampede -- and have been for about 15 years. I am currently a Trail Boss over the Guest Ranch and Information station. I also enjoy going to the lake and hanging out at the in-law’s pool.
Along with many of my co-workers, I'm a proud member of Team UNC Catering... raising money for the Relay For Life of Weld County! We have a great time with Relay every year!
back to Dining Services Main Office
Jump to one of these locations: Main Office | Holmes Dining Hall | Tobey-Kendel Dining Room
University Center - Food Court, Catering, and Retail Dining
The Univeristy Center is located between 10th Avenue and 11th Avenue at 20th Street. This building houses many businesses and offices, so stop by and see what we can do for you!
James Medina
Retail Dining Manager
phone: (970) 351-1358
email: james.medina@unco.edu
I have lived in Colorado all my life. In my spare time, I enjoy spending as much time as possible with my wife and five boys. We all enjoy the Colorado Rockies, the Colorado Avalanche, the Denver Nuggets, and the Denver Broncos.
I have been employed in Dining Services for two years, but I have been in the food industry for eleven years. I owned and operated two restaurants before coming to UNC. The experience I gained from being "the guy where the buck would stop” was immeasurable. Here at UNC Dining Services, we have that same ownership mentality. It is exciting to be a part of a management team that looks to growth to better serve our students.
As the Retail Dining Manager, it is my job to ensure the student's retail dining experience is one that they have grown accustomed to and expect. At the University Center, students have a choice of Subway®, Einstein Bros® Bagels, Taco Bell® Express, Starbucks®, Munchy Mart, and 3 Coffee Corners conveniently located across campus.
Susie Ditton
Retail Dining Assistant Manager:
Munchy Mart and all 3 Coffee Corner locations
phone: (970) 351-3401
email: susan.ditton@unco.edu
I have always worked in food service and am very excited to be part of the UNC Dining Services family. I love working with such an interesting, supportive, and diverse group of people.
I also love the opportunity I have to interact and learn from the amazing students that are such a big part of my UNC experience.
I am married, have 3 children, and 3 grandchildren. Being "Nana" is a wonderful stage of life, and I love the "snuggle, hug, spoil, and send back to Mom" job it is!
Sharon Eberhard
Retail Dining Assistant Manager:
Starbucks® and Einstein Bros® Bagels
phone: (970) 351-1329
email: sharon.eberhard@unco.edu
I have been blessed with working at UNC Dining Services since the fall semester of 2008. I manage operations in Starbucks® Coffee and Einstein Bros® Bagels, both located in the University Center.
Being on campus makes me feel like I’m attending a reunion. Both of my parents retired from UNC, and my siblings and I all graduated from University High School at Bishop Lehr and attended UNC. A lot of the faces have changed, but the atmosphere is just as rewarding and exciting as I remember. I haven’t decided what I want to be when I grow up, but one thing I’m sure about is that I want to stay on an awesome campus and have the opportunity to grow along with the students I get to supervise on a daily basis.
In my spare time, I enjoy spending time with my family and their activities. I have a wonderful husband of 30+ years, Ron. We have two daughters Angela and Katherine (and their awesome husbands), two sons Andy and Danny, and ‘2-going-on-3’ grandchildren. I am entering my 13th year as a High School Cross Country coach at University High School. I recently signed up to participate in a Triathlon to be held in June (it’s been more than 27 years since the last one – ugh!). Other free time includes teaching Sunday School, being active in church activities and various community service opportunities (like Relay For Life of Weld County).
Jan Nelson
Food Court / Concessions Manager
phone: (970) 351-1398
email: janelle.nelson@unco.edu
I began working at UNC Dining Services in August 2006 as the Concessions and Bar Manager. In August 2008, I became the Food Court and Concessions Manager. Not only do we provide concessions for UNC events, one of the more challenging aspects is providing concessions for the Colorado community including youth and high school tournaments. Concessions can be very challenging at times but is extremely rewarding at the close of the day.
In the Fall of 2010, Dining Services added Dinner to the University Center Food Court and Bears Bistro -- which are both doing great! I am very fortunate to have a wonderful classified and student staff in my operations.
I have been married for 24 years and have two children, Ashlee and Brandon. As a family we enjoy watching our son wrestle and play hockey, going to the lake, boating, and being in the sun. In my spare time, I've been an active volunteer for 16 years for The Greeley Stampede Wranglers and I am also a part of the UNC Catering Relay For Life team.
Joanne Tison
Catering Assistant Manager
phone: (970) 351-1390
email: joanne.tison@unco.edu
As a new hire at the University Center Dining, a few of my duties include hiring and training Catering staff, overseeing safety and sanitation, scheduling, and supervising daily events. I am still learning my responsibilities and loving every minute of it. As a certified FTD Master Designer, I am hoping to have more opportunities to use this skill for Catered events here at UNC.
I am a transplant from New Mexico and have been in Colorado since 1994. I have been married to Scott for 10 years. In our spare time, we enjoy traveling, going to the movies and attending all sporting events. I have volunteered for the Wrangler organization for 13 years and have recently joined the UNC Dining Services Relay For Life team.
Ron Bennett
Catering Production Manager / Chef
phone: (970) 351-2626
email: ron.bennett@unco.edu
Are you looking for that special touch at your meeting, certain special occasion, or wedding? At the University of Northern Colorado we can accommodate your entire request. We offer wide selection of high quality cuisine and full service.
I have been in the culinary entertainment field for 30+ years. I have worked in various restaurants in the Denver area, and I’ve been with UNC Catering for 6 years. I’m a Colorado native, and I love the diverse cuisine we have here... especially wild game.
I have the honor to work with some really talented chefs, cooks and culinary professionals here at UNC to provide excellent quality and safe product to our customers.
Melodie Kammerzell
Accounting Technician
phone: (970) 351-1131
email: melodie.kammerzell@unco.edu
I am currently the Accounting Tech for the University Center Food Court, Bears Bistro, UNC Catering, and Retail Dining operations.
I graduated from Colorado State University with a degree in Business Administration – Computer Information Systems and worked for approximately 17 at Hewlett-Packard Company in the IT department. In 2005, I left HP and started a business. But in 2008, I decided to join Dining Services at UNC in an accounting position.
My husband and I spend a lot of time watching our sons wrestle... Brandon wrestles for UNC, and Bryce wrestles for Eaton High School.
Jodi Powers
Accounting Technician
phone: (970) 351-2803
email: jodi.powers@unco.edu
I am the new Accounting Tech for the University Center Dining Services. I graduated from Aims Community College with an AAS in Accounting and from UNC with a BS in Business Administration.
I worked in the grocery retail business for the last 22 years, so I am excited to embark on a new work adventure here at UNC. I look forward to meeting and interacting with our students, faculty, and staff.
I have lived in Colorado for most of my life, but was able to live in Montana and Arkansas for 5 years each. I have one son, who currently attends Greeley Central High School. He will be following my footsteps (as well as mother’s) and will attend UNC upon graduation.
In my free time I like to go shopping, travel, and spend time with my friends and family. I love to go to sporting events, especially Denver Broncos games, and last year became a season ticket holder! I am also excited to be a new member of the UNC Catering Relay For Life team.
Jump to one of these locations: Main Office | University Center | Tobey-Kendel Dining Room
Holmes Dining Hall
Holmes Dining Hall is located on West Campus, sorth of Turner and Lawrenson Halls - and north of the very large parking lot.
Ann Rose
Unit Manager
phone: (970) 351-3800
email: ann.rose@unco.edu
I starting working in Dining Services 29 years ago as a student cashier at the University Center cafeteria and loved the opportunities that kept coming my way. I moved on to full-time status as a Supervisor and then as Catering Manager for 15 years. For the past 10 years, I have managed both Tobey-Kendel Dining Room and Holmes Dining Hall. I truly cannot choose which operation I like better -- Catering or the Dining Rooms -- as they have similarities that make me passionate – people, good food, and a feeling of accomplishment.
Dining Services has changed a lot over the last 29 years, and the changes have been awesome... better food, modern establishments, endless offerings, and more opportunities coming my way - I can’t wait for the next 29 years!
Deena McBain
Administrative Assistant
phone: (970) 351-3801
email: deena.mcbain@unco.edu
I joined UNC Dining Services in January 2007 and have grown to love the university environment and the ability to work with such a variety of wonderful students and staff members! My primary job is to provide administrative support for Holmes Dining Hall and other campus-wide efforts. I am responsible for multiple reports, special events planning, and daily management support... but delivering GREAT customer service is my favorite thing to do!
I graduated from DePauw University with a BA in Communications, and when I look back, it’s hard to believe I now have over fourteen years of experience in food service -- of all things!
I am a Colorado native and although I have lived around the world, I always find myself back in this great state! I have a beautiful little daughter and am actively involved in volunteer work for the American Cancer Society Relay For Life. In my free time, I enjoy attending concerts & sporting events, exploring new places, and spending time with family & friends.
Chris Bowen
Student Personnel Supervisor
phone: (970) 351-3802
email: christopher.bowen@unco.edu
As the Student Personnel Supervisor at Holmes Dining Hall, Chris is responsible for hiring and training our student staff for serving floor and dishroom duty.
He is also responsible for managing dinner shifts and occasionally weekends.
Chris is new to the Dining Services management team, so he will be updating his bio very soon. If you see him in the dining room, please stop by and say HI!
Judy Werner
Production Manager
phone: (970) 351-3803
email: judy.werner@unco.edu
I am the production manager in Holmes Dining Hall. I have worked at the University for 19 years. I started at Tobey-Kendel Dining Room... and I have actually worked at all of the dining rooms on campus! I truly like working at UNC.
I am originally from Minnesota, but I have been in Colorado for 54 years. I have two daughters – Tina is my oldest and my other daughter Becky also works here on campus. My son Wayne lives in Massachusetts. I have 10 grandchildren and one great grand-daughter. In my free time, I like to crochet, sew, and go dancing. My family and my job are my life.
Jason Kearns
Unit Chef
phone: (970) 351-3804
email: jason.kearns@unco.edu
I love food, and I love to serve people. That’s why I became a chef. I love working for UNC Dining Services because I get to come into work every day and do what I love.
Before coming to UNC in 2008, I worked in a variety of hotels and restaurants throughout North Carolina and Colorado. I am a graduate of Johnson & Wales University in Denver with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Culinary Nutrition.
I’m a Pennsylvania native, and a die-hard Steelers fan. I’m happily married with three wonderful children.
Jump to one of these locations: Main Office | University Center | Holmes Dining Hall
Tobey-Kendel Dining Room
Tobey-Kendel Dining Room is located in the middle of the Central Campus residence halls... look for the building with the little bell tower, and you've found the right one!
Mark Gebhardt
Unit Manager
phone: (970) 351-3514
email: mark.gebhardt@unco.edu
I joined UNC six years ago, and I am now the manager of Tobey-Kendel Dining Room. I obtained a BA in Restaurant and Hotel Management from Metropolitan State College of Denver and am currently enrolled as a Graduate student in the Higher Education and Student Affairs Leadership Program.
Working at UNC is one of many blessings in my life because I get to work with those who are becoming our future leaders. It is special to see the students grow and change within their four years at UNC. To be a part of this, never grows old... even though I will!
back to Tobey-Kendel Dining Room
Marina Alcazar
Administrative Assistant
phone: (970) 351-3522
email: marina.alcazar@unco.edu
I attended San Jose State University and moved to northern Colorado in the fall of 2000.
I began working in Dining Services at UNC in November 2008 and truly enjoy being here!
Among many things, I volunteer with the home bound and am involved with St. Mary Church and School. Enjoying life along the way with my husband and son is something that I truly value.
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Kellie Goya
Student Personnel Supervisor
phone: (970) 351-3517
email: kellieann.goya@unco.edu
I was born and raised on Oahu, Hawai’i and came to UNC to pursue a bachelors degree in Chemistry. If you had asked me (when I started as a freshmen here at UNC) where I would be in five years, I'm not sure I would have said I would be working for UNC... but here I am! I'm looking forward to seeing where this road will lead me.
As a freshman here at UNC, I began working at Holmes Dining Hall, where I later became a student supervisor. After 4 years as a student in Dining Services, I was promoted and am now the Student Personnel Supervisor at Tobey-Kendel Dining Room. I am responsible for hiring and training the students and our "front of house" staff as well as meal shift supervision.
When I have free time away from work, I enjoy spending it with my friends, watching movies, or sleeping!
back to Tobey-Kendel Dining Room
Teresa Sugi
Production Manager
phone: (970) 351-1946
email: teresa.sugi@unco.edu
I consider myself blessed to have worked 24 years at UNC in a variety of capacities. Every day is a new, fresh, and exciting opportunity to work with great people, great food, and great services. My job is to keep our coolers, freezers, and storerooms fully stocked so that our staff can create some of the best food to be found on any campus in the country! On occasion, I assist groups or individuals to provide BBQs, picnic meals, or special meal requests. By far, the most enjoyable part of my job is the daily interaction with people of all ages who truly appreciate our efforts.
I enjoy spending my free time with family and friends, volunteering with several local organizations, and reading the occasional mysteries adventure book.
back to Tobey-Kendel Dining Room
Dan Senn
Unit Chef
phone: (970) 351-3518
email: daniel.senn@unco.edu
I joined UNC in October 2010. After a great introductory month at Holmes Dining Hall, I became Unit Chef at Tobey-Kendel Dining Room. I enjoy working here with a great staff and wonderful students.
Upon completion of my three year culinary apprenticeship in my home country, Switzerland, I moved to the United States in 1981. After working in various hotels and cities, Colorado became home in 2001. With 35+ years of experience in the culinary field, I am still excited to learn about new food trends and cuisines from around the globe.
I have three children that keep me busy at home. In my free time, I love to cook (my favorite foods are ethnic and sushi). I also enjoy being outdoors skiing, hiking, and camping.
Jump to one of these locations: Main Office | University Center | Holmes Dining Hall | Tobey-Kendel Dining Room
UNC Dining Services - General Information
- Main Office: Tobey-Kendel Hall, room 120 (campus box 47)
- Phone Number: (970) 351-2652
- Fax Number: (970) 351-2754
- Email: diningservices@unco.edu
- Visit us: Dining Services Web Site
- Need an event catered? University Catering Web Site