Roberts Wesleyan University, in partnership with Metz Culinary Management (Metz), hosted its annual Thanksgiving luncheon in mid-November, welcoming more than 500 attendees. For the first time in the event’s history, senior citizens from the surrounding community were also invited. The expanded celebration reflects the University’s mission of service and Metz’s commitment to supporting local communities through nutritious, scratch-made meals that reinforce the principles of the growing food-is-medicine movement.
For over a decade, the luncheon has been one of the most anticipated events on campus. This year’s expansion began taking shape in August, as University leadership sought to extend the Thanksgiving tradition to a broader network of local senior citizens, including residents from College Green and other nearby senior communities.
“This event has been one of the most popular and anticipated gatherings at the school during the ten years I’ve been here,” said Michael Kraus, General Manager, Metz Culinary Management. “Community members start asking about the date in mid-August, and we begin planning as soon as the semester starts. We often hear from guests that this meal is better than their own Thanksgiving, and that’s something we’re deeply proud of.”
Guests enjoyed an extensive menu of seasonal favorites prepared from scratch, including:
- Roasted Turkey & Gravy
- Buttered Corn with Dill
- Roasted Butternut Squash with Baby Spinach and Red Onions
- Homemade Macaroni and Cheese
- Scratch-Made Mashed Potatoes
- Green Beans with Lemon and Shallots
- Cornbread Stuffing
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze
- Corn Muffins and fresh-baked rolls with a variety of house-made butter boards: Garlic & Herb, Cinnamon–Brown Sugar, Orange-Honey, and Hot Honey
- Pecan, Apple, and Pumpkin Pies
- Fresh-baked Cookies and Brownies
- In-house Made Pumpkin Roll
More than just a holiday meal, the event reinforced the University’s and Metz’s shared belief that food fosters connection, supports healthy aging, and strengthens the bond between the campus and the surrounding community.
“Each year, the campus is blown away by the scope of this event,” Kraus added. “People are impressed, thankful, and truly appreciative. Welcoming additional senior communities this year speaks directly to our commitment to nourishing our neighbors and strengthening the wellbeing of older adults through wholesome, thoughtfully prepared food.”
This year’s luncheon underscored both organizations’ commitment to inclusivity and community care. The partnership continues to demonstrate how thoughtful hospitality and nutritious meals can meaningfully impact the lives of older adults and connect them more closely to the local campus community.