Sweet Briar announces dining services partnership with Meriwether Godsey

Sweet Briar College will kick off the spring semester with a new dining service. President Meredith Woo announced the College’s partnership with Lynchburg-based company Meriwether Godsey in an email to the community in November.

“Premium quality dining at Sweet Briar College has always been an important tradition,” Woo wrote. “Over the last several months, we have been working to enhance our dining program to build on our values for flavorful ‘home-cooked’ meals, sustainable practices, local sourcing, healthy eating and a welcoming environment for all.”

Meriwether Godsey, a women-led and employee-owned firm founded by Rie Meriwether Godsey, promises such an experience, with a special emphasis on locally sourced ingredients and a balanced, nutritious menu. Under the motto “dining with a conscience,” MG is committed to using “sensible, eco-friendly strategies that balance environmental responsibility with each client’s needs and preferences,” according to its website.



MG’s clients include institutions such as Guilford College, Virginia Episcopal School (VES), Hollins University, Holton Arms and St. Catherine’s, among many others.

“We are looking forward to building a unique, personalized experience for the Sweet Briar family,” said Meriwether Godsey CEO Leslie Phillips. “Sweet Briar’s traditions of stewardship and respect for resources align so well with our culture and core values. It will be a joy to work together in our effort to enrich the lives of those we serve.”

In December, Sweet Briar students, faculty and staff had the chance to meet with Meriwether Godsey chefs on campus and sample the new food. Meriwether Godsey assumed management responsibilities of the College’s dining services in January, replacing Parkhurst Dining. The company has offered continuing employment to current dining services staff.

The first meal served by Meriwether Godsey will be dinner on Sunday, Jan. 14. Sweet Briar’s dining hall is open to the campus community and to outside visitors alike. Follow Sweet Briar Dining on Facebook for the latest renovations, menus and hours.