Clark Atlanta University continues to enhance the student experience through thoughtful innovation and intentional campus development. The recent opening of Scholars Café, led by the Division of Business and Auxiliary Services under the vice presidency of Dr. Cynthia Gomes, represents a strategic investment in both student convenience and community engagement.
Located in the Carl and Mary Ware building adjacent to Jazzman’s Brew and Bakery, Scholars Café introduces a modern approach to campus dining that reflects the evolving needs of today’s students. Designed as a flexible dining concept, the café offers quick, customizable options that align with the pace of student life while maintaining a high standard of quality.
“The vision for Scholars Café was to introduce a fresh and flexible concept that elevates dining on campus,” Dr. Gomes explained. “Today’s students are constantly on the move and prefer quick, customizable options over traditional sit-down meals.”
Building on existing student preferences, the café launched with a focus on made-to-order sandwiches, a category that has consistently resonated with the CAU clientele. By expanding on this demand, Scholars Café offers a convenient, elevated option that complements both full meals and prepackaged selections.
Beyond its culinary offerings, Scholars Café supports the broader mission of Business and Auxiliary Services to enhance campus life and student success through accessible and high-quality resources. From dining services and campus retail to parking and student essentials, the division remains committed to improving the overall student experience. Scholars Café extends that commitment by increasing both variety and convenience.
Equally important is the café’s role as a community-centered space. Reimagining the former Jazzman’s area, Scholars Café has been intentionally designed to foster connection among students, faculty, and staff. While continuing to support academic productivity, the space now encourages engagement, conversation, and collaboration.
“Scholars Café is designed to be more than a dining spot. It is a space where students, faculty, and staff can study, relax, and connect,” Dr. Gomes noted.
This sense of belonging is further reflected in the café’s name, “Scholars Café,” which was selected through a student naming competition. The winning submission, proposed by sophomore Bobbeyuna Anthony, reflects the academic and welcoming environment the space was designed to create. Her contribution underscores the university’s commitment to incorporating student voice into campus development.
As part of a comprehensive portfolio of services, including dining, the Panther Paw Card, campus retail, and other auxiliary operations, Scholars Café represents a continued effort to meet student needs while enhancing daily campus life.
Since its grand opening on February 24, 2026, Scholars Café has quickly established itself as a vibrant addition to campus. More than a place to dine, it serves as a welcoming environment where convenience meets connection.
Through initiatives like Scholars Café, Clark Atlanta University continues to create spaces that reflect the needs, voices, and experiences of its students.
Stay connected with Business and Auxiliary Services for updates on dining, campus retail, parking, and student resources. Learn more at www.cau.edu/about/offices-resources/business-auxiliary-services.
