
Iona University Unveils New Dining Hall and Student Union
Iona University celebrated its newly renovated dining hall and student union with a recent ribbon cutting ceremony, marking a major milestone in its ongoing commitment to elevating the student experience.
The 20,000-square-foot, two-story transformation of the LaPenta Student Union reflects a vibrant vision of campus life, one that fosters connection, curiosity and community.
“We are excited to provide our students with this state-of-the-art dining facility at the center of campus,” said Seamus Carey, PhD, president of Iona University. “In addition to being aesthetically beautiful, it will facilitate cordial interactions among students, which will deepen the sense of community for which Iona is well-known.”
With sweeping views of the Murphy Green, Mazzella Field and the LaPenta School of Business, the dining hall maximizes natural light with expansive windows and retractable doors that open to outdoor patios.
Inside, students can enjoy upgraded campus favorites such as pizzas, pastas, hand-crafted deli sandwiches, international cuisine and more, alongside expanded healthy offerings such as vegan and vegetarian dishes, high-protein smoothies, gluten-free options, and fresh, non-GMO snacks.
In a continued effort to enhance sustainability and the overall experience, the dining hall also now features reusable plates and silverware – adding that extra touch of comfort and environmental consciousness to every meal.
On the ground floor, a 6,000-square-foot student lounge and club meeting space provides multipurpose rooms for student organizations, cozy seating areas, flat-screen TVs, and a striking gas fireplace. The lounge seamlessly connects to an updated, on-site Starbucks, offering an additional location for the campus community to gather.
“This entire space was built with students in mind,” said Kevin O’Sullivan, senior vice president for Enrollment Management & Student Affairs. “It’s about creating a place to connect, build student leadership, relax with friends and learn in all the ways that happen beyond the classroom, as a community of Gaels. We are so excited for all that will come to life through this new space.”
“This wonderful renovation on campus will redefine how Gaels continue to breathe new life into our campus,” said Krisna Rivera ’26, president of Iona’s Student Government Association. “I am grateful to be in a community that invests in its students’ experience, both in and out of the classroom. I look forward to the many memories that will be shared in this dynamic new space.”