Fayetteville State University held its grand opening for its new two-story Starbucks today, Jan. 14. The new store, located behind the Rudolph Jones Student Center, is a fully functioning Starbucks open to the greater Fayetteville community. 

This new store is the largest Starbucks on any university campus in North Carolina and Virginia. The nearly 6,000 sq. ft. facility aims to support students, faculty and staff.

“Why did we make such an investment? It's simple. We did it for our students, faculty and staff. It's always been my goal to provide an environment that feels welcoming and supportive, and this is just one step in that feat,” shared Chancellor Darrell T. Allison at the ceremony.

With 1,350 students currently living on campus and an additional 336 expected come fall of this year following the completion of a new residence hall, the new store will see a lot of foot traffic between this population and the 5,000 commuter students the campus serves.

“As you can see, Starbucks is located in the heart of our campus, in the epicenter of our campus. As a result, we will provide students with a welcoming space to connect, collaborate and recharge. This central hub of activity will foster a sense of community and serve as a gathering place for meaningful interactions, helping to enhance campus life and strengthen the bond within our Bronco family,” said Dr. Juanette Council, Vice Chancellor of Student Affairs. 

During the ceremony it was also announced that all full-time FSU students will receive a bonus of $20 in Bronco Bucks as part of this opening celebration. This Starbucks also takes orders and payments through the Starbucks app, so students have several options for purchasing their morning coffee before class.

Additionally, the partnership between FSU and Starbucks includes a $50,000 annual grant from Starbucks in support of students and student programming. This year’s grant is being used to launch the Bronco Pride Campaign. This campaign is designed to build school spirit through three strategies: increase FSU’s spirit squad activities, enhance FSU fan experience and support the FSU marching band.

Chancellor Allison concluded the ceremony by reminding students and guests that this is just the beginning. The University has invested approximately $1.5M in enhancing the quad where the Starbucks is located. From additional lighting to covered benches, speakers playing music and outlets for charging devices, the quad will look completely different come the end of May.