Kaldi’s Coffee Comes to William Woods

Watch out Screech, a goat has arrived at William Woods University!

One of the exciting changes on campus this year is a new look for the Owl’s Nest, the grab and go coffee shop in the McNutt Campus Center. Instead of Starbucks, Kaldi’s Coffee products are now being offered.

Kaldi’s is a specialty coffee company based in St. Louis, Mo. that focuses on sustainable and high-quality drinks. Named after a sixth-century goatherder who supposedly discovered coffee, the company has locations across the state and is expanding to university coffee shops.

“We wanted to change things up this year,” says Rachel Pounds, director of dining services for Fresh Ideas, the company that runs Tucker Dining Hall and the Owl’s Nest. “Because Kaldi’s is a local and trendy brand, we thought it would be a good fit for William Woods.”

The WWU community will have access to all types of drinks, from cappuccinos and chai lattes to Aztec hot cocoa and mint chocolate frappes. One of the biggest additions: Smoothies!

Fresh Ideas will continue to supply the baked goods and food for the Owl’s Nest, offering breakfast and lunch items. They hired a full-time employee to focus on making food just for the Owl’s Nest and plan to ramp up production with more exciting options. Campus favorite, Marie, remains the manager and will be helped by other Fresh Ideas employees and a student worker.

The meal exchange option is still available for lunch and dinner, meaning that students can swap out a trip to Tucker for a quick stop at the Owl’s Nest.

Want hot breakfast sandwiches? Craving a specific snack? Fresh Ideas is always looking for ideas to improve. Email rpounds@freshideasfood.com with any feedback or suggestions.

The Owl’s Nest opens on August 16 (Move-In Day). Hours are Monday to Friday (7 a.m. – 10 p.m.) and Saturday (8 a.m. – noon).