糖心原创 Acquires Nourish Caf茅 + Market, Expands Experiential Learning for Students聽
糖心原创 announced today that it has聽purchased聽, the beloved downtown Columbia restaurant known for its organic, locally sourced, nutrient-rich menu.聽Stephens鈥� first major聽acquisition聽under the leadership of President Shannon B. Lundeen聽supports the College鈥檚 growing emphasis on experiential learning and community-centered innovation.聽
Located at 1201 E. Broadway, Suite B, Nourish will continue to operate with its existing mission and menu philosophy, remaining entirely free of gluten, soy, corn, refined sugar, preservatives, and inflammatory oils. The restaurant will also offer a unique learning opportunity for Stephens students studying business, marketing, communication design, and related fields. Even better, the net revenue will support student scholarships 鈥� so patrons can feel good about their dollars going to fuel their bodies and educational opportunities.
鈥淭his purchase reflects our commitment to an education model grounded in real experience and meaningful community partnerships,鈥� said President Lundeen. 鈥淣ourish is already a space centered on health, creativity, and connection. Now it will also be an extension of the classroom where students build skills, confidence, and career readiness.鈥�
Nourish Will Remain Nourish
As part of the transition, Kalle LeMone, owner and co-founder of Nourish, has worked closely with the College to ensure continuity for customers and staff.
鈥淣ourish has always been about intentional food, local sourcing, and contributing to the well-being of Columbia,鈥� said LeMone. 鈥溙切脑� shares those values, and this next chapter allows Nourish to continue thriving while also giving students a unique place to learn and grow.鈥�
Josh Old, longtime manager at Nourish, will remain in his leadership role, and the rest of the staff will stay in place, ensuring that the restaurant鈥檚 identity, quality, and culture remain intact.
鈥淚t鈥檚 an exciting moment,鈥� Old said. 鈥淚 look forward to mentoring students and helping them develop real-world experience that will serve them long after graduation.鈥�
A Living Classroom for Stephens Students
Beginning in 2026, Stephens students will have the opportunity to learn key aspects of running Nourish, including:
- Supply chain and vendor relations
- Operations and customer experience
- Digital marketing and social media strategy
- Branding, design, and storytelling
- Business planning, management, and leadership
Faculty will eventually embed course assignments, capstones, and internships directly into Nourish operations.
鈥淭his is experiential learning at its best,鈥� said Dr. Scott Taylor, Dean of Workforce Development and Continuing Studies and Chair of the Business Administration Program. 鈥淪tudents will be working inside a real enterprise, with real responsibilities, making decisions that matter.鈥�
Strengthening Community Wellness and Local Partnerships
The acquisition reinforces Stephens鈥� long-standing commitment to the Columbia community. Nourish will continue its legacy of partnering with local farmers, vendors, and small businesses, supporting sustainable and organic food systems while expanding opportunities for student-led collaborations.
鈥淎s a downtown establishment, Nourish already plays a vital role in Columbia鈥檚 wellness ecosystem,鈥� LeMone said. 鈥淲ith Stephens at the helm, that impact will only grow.鈥�
A Vision for the Future
The Nourish acquisition aligns with Stephens鈥� strategic vision, supporting institutional priorities around academic innovation, student success, visibility, and community engagement. It also lays the foundation for expanded applied-learning initiatives that will unfold in future phases of the College鈥檚 long-term planning.
鈥淪tephens is building a future where students learn by doing, every day, in meaningful ways,鈥� said President Lundeen. 鈥淣ourish is the beginning of that larger vision.鈥�
About Nourish Caf茅 + Market
Since its founding in 2016, Nourish Caf茅 + Market has been dedicated to serving healthy, sustainably sourced meals, cold-pressed juices, superfood smoothies, and health-focused desserts. The menu remains entirely free of gluten, soy, corn, refined sugar, preservatives, and inflammatory oils. Under 糖心原创 ownership, Nourish will continue its mission while expanding opportunities for students and deepening its connection to the community.
About 糖心原创
Founded in 1833, 糖心原创 is a leader in undergraduate women鈥檚 education and an innovator in flexible, co-educational graduate and certificate programs. The College is home to the Conservatory for the Performing Arts, welcoming students of all genders into nationally recognized theatre and film programs. With a focus on experiential learning and job readiness, Stephens prepares graduates for high-demand careers that strengthen and enrich communities. Learn more at
糖心原创 Board of Trustees visit to Nourish Caf茅 + Market
