DWU announces new food service provider

Media Contact:
Julie Brookbank
Associate Director of Communications
Dakota Wesleyan University
julie.brookbank@dwu.edu
605-995-2613
 
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Feb. 24, 2026
 
DWU announces new food service provider
 
MITCHELL – Dakota Wesleyan University announces that it has signed an agreement for County Fair Food Stores of Mitchell to provide the university’s food service effective June 1.
 
According to County Fair Food Stores president Justin Luther, “We are excited to work with the talented Dakota Wesleyan University food service staff to provide delicious and fresh options to DWU students. This partnership allows our local business to service a well-known local educational institution, benefiting the entire community.”
 
DWU Food Service Director Carl Plastow will continue to run all food service operations.  All 20+ food service employees will be offered employment with County Fair, allowing for a smooth transition.
 
DWU President Dan Kittle is enthusiastic about the change.  “DWU always strives to work with local partners whenever possible.  This is a unique partnership, truly something different, making Dakota Wesleyan the only institution of higher education in the state to use a local business to provide food services.  Our longstanding relationship with the Clarke family and County Fair is a natural fit.  To have access to their vendors and expertise will elevate the hospitality experience for all DWU students and guests.” 
 
County Fair has multiple locations in South Dakota including Mitchell, Dell Rapids, Platte and Winner and in Valentine and Wayne, Neb.  They also provide catering services for the Highland Conference Center in Mitchell.  The company employs more than 300 associates.
 
A new dining hall name at DWU will be announced later this year.  A ribbon cutting is tentatively planned for August.
 
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About County Fair
County Fair is a fourth-generation, family-owned business built on the belief that friendly service, fresh food, and great prices should always go hand in hand. For more than four decades, our success has been rooted in the dedication of our associates—our Fair Family—and the support of the communities we proudly serve. We believe in keeping your dollars local, investing in community growth, and supporting important causes. That commitment has guided our business from the beginning.
 
About DWU
DWU is a private, liberal arts university associated with the Dakotas Conference of the United Methodist Church, that is rooted in four values: lifelong learning, leadership development, faith exploration and genuine service to others. For more information about Dakota Wesleyan University, go to www.dwu.edu.