Prevent the closure of UNL campus Dunkin'

138

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The Issue

Working at the Dunkin' on the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) campus isn't just my job, it's a big part of my life. The news that it is closing is heartbreaking and concerning not only for me but also for my fellow employees and the students and staff who rely on its services daily. This Dunkin' is more than a coffee shop; it’s a community hub where friendships are brewed and stories are shared over a cup of coffee.

Dunkin' on the UNL campus provides jobs for many students and locals, offering flexible hours and a supportive work environment that's perfect for balancing work and studies. Closing this location would mean loss of income for us, which could seriously affect our ability to pay for tuition, rent, and daily expenses. It also means the loss of an accessible place for students and faculty to grab their morning coffee or a quick donut during the bustle of campus life.

This Dunkin' has consistently been a gathering spot, promoting a sense of community among students, staff, and visitors. By closing it, we risk losing not only a beloved local business but also the unique culture and camaraderie it fosters within the campus environment.

We propose that instead of closing it, the management considers solutions that could keep it operational. Potential strategies could include revisiting the lease agreements, collaborating on promotions to boost foot traffic, or even exploring community partnerships that would benefit both Dunkin' and the local populace.

We urge Dunkin's corporate leaders and the campus administration to find an innovative solution that preserves this essential part of our community. It enriches campus life and supports those who call UNL home.

Please help us save our Dunkin' by signing this petition. Together, we can demonstrate the profound impact this closure would have and appeal to those in charge to reconsider their decision.

The Decision Makers

Liz Lorang
Dean of University Libraries, University of Nebraska-Lincoln
Responded
“My name is Liz Lorang, and as Dean of the University Libraries, I was invited by Change.org to respond to the petition regarding the Dunkin location in the Adele Hall Learning Commons. I want to first say I’m glad there is recognition in the petition that the Learning Commons is an important community hub on campus. I share the petition author and signers’ perspective that the cafe, as well as the entirety of the Love Library complex, is—and should always be—a gathering place that promotes community. With this spirit in mind, beginning in early 2027, UNL’s Dining Services will operate a café in the Adele Hall Learning Commons replacing the Dunkin franchise currently leasing the space. This arrangement will provide greater local controland flexibility, keep money within the university, expand menu options, and allow students to use their meal plan dollars at the café. The Dining Services team, including those responsible for the future café in the Commons, have shared the following: “Current employees of the Dunkin' operation in the Adele Hall Learning Commons are encouraged to apply for both full-time and student positions within Dining Services as opportunities become available. We value the experience these employees bring and welcome their interest in continuing to serve the UNL community.” I am confident that Dining Services will offer great service and be a valued partner in continuing to make the Adele Hall Learning Commons a collaborative hub of learning and community. I—and the entire University Libraries team—care deeply about student success and wellbeing, for every individual student as well as the whole student community. I will not be revisiting the decision with regard to Dunkin’s operations within Love Library, but I welcome all Husker students' input into what comes next. Elizabeth (Liz) M. Lorang, Ph.D. Dean of University Libraries Liz.lorang@unl.edu [Note: The Change.org Civic Engagement Team reaches out to decision makers to let them know about petitions in their community and to help facilitate engagement with supporters. The above was an email response we received regarding this petition.]”

Petition Updates