Bringing the Hammer to the Hemm
Right after Commencement, those who remain on campus will see some changes taking place on the John J. Hemmingson Center’s main street. That familiar white-on-orange hammer logo of a Spokane favorite – Thomas Hammer Coffee – will be replacing the white-on-green two-tailed siren of Starbucks.
Suzie Mize, AVP of Auxiliary Enterprises, and Sodexo Director Pat Clelland say the change has several perks (pun intended). Over time, we’ve heard thoughtful feedback from students expressing interest in seeing a more locally connected coffee experience on campus – one that reflects Gonzaga’s values and the Spokane community. Students also shared a desire for expanded and more diverse food options, as well as a refreshed, more inviting space to gather, study and connect. The transition also provides a more fiscally sound business model that supports Auxiliary’s focus on Cura Apostolica.
This exciting change also means welcoming home a two-time Zag!
Thomas Hammer (’91, ’93 M.B.A.) started slinging coffee at age 18, about the time he began his studies at Gonzaga’s School of Business Administration. When he returned to complete his M.B.A., longtime dean of the business school, Bud Barnes, took particular interest in Hammer’s acumen for the coffee business. Fun fact: Bud is still a strategic partner, and Tom says he’s the ultimate mentor in professionalism, business ethics, being community minded and having a work-life balance.
Choosing a locally rooted business owner was part of the evaluation of potential coffee providers, to ensure Gonzaga is bolstering the local economy where possible. And for java junkies on campus, having beans that are also roasted locally means having a quality cup of coffee.
What you need to know:
- Starbucks will close immediately following Commencement weekend.
- Thomas Hammer will operate temporarily out of the Qdoba space during the summer while the primary coffee bar is reconfigured. The new Hammer bar will be ready in its new spot when students return to campus in fall.
- Teams are evaluating options for an order-ahead app that many are accustomed to having with Starbucks.