Prescott, Arizona (Feb. 2, 2026) – The Eatery at Yavapai College’s Prescott campus is proud to announce its new membership in Menus of Change University Research Collaborative (MCURC)—a national initiative co-led by Culinary Institute of America (CIA), Stanford Residential & Dining Enterprises, and Stanford Prevention Research Center that champions healthy, sustainable, and delicious foodservice.
Yavapai College is the first community college in the nation to join this prestigious network. MCURC provides visionary leadership and evidence-based principles for integrating optimal nutrition, environmental stewardship, and social responsibility into dining programs across the country.
This membership places The Eatery at the forefront of forward-thinking campus dining, aligning its commitment to fresh, locally sourced ingredients, nutrition-forward menus, and sustainable practices with a network of innovative institutions leading the future of food. Join The Eatery as they continue to elevate the dining experience for students, staff, and the broader community through excellence, impact, and culinary leadership.
“We’re incredibly proud to share that Yavapai College has been accepted into the Menus of Change University Research Collaborative,” Yavapai College Executive Director of Culinary Experience Aimee Novak said. “Being part of this global network allows us to use our campus dining halls to drive positive change in how we eat today and in the future. It’s especially exciting to be the first community college in the nation to join Menus of Change, and this recognition reflects the amazing work happening at The Eatery at Yavapai College.
Menus of Change is part of an ecosystem of Culinary Institute of America thought leadership initiatives for supporting the best possible future for the overall foodservice industry, including staying ahead of emerging, high-impact trends and issues.
The 24 Menus of Change Principles serve as the reference point for this broader ecosystem and provide guidance and direction as issues of health, sustainability, and food ethics arise. The initiative also provides the foundational definitions and contextual language around the concept of “plant-forward” menus. Learn more online at www.menusofchange.org.
Yavapai College operates seven campuses and centers throughout Yavapai County and offers over 100 degrees and certificates, four baccalaureate degrees, student and community services, and cultural events and activities. To learn more about Yavapai College, visit www.yc.edu.