HUB dining changed a lot over the summer, so much that even Higher Grounds disappeared before the start of the semester. The Irving’s and Starbucks partnership located on the Pollock Road level of the HUB was a staple for students grabbing a quick snack or looking for a short coffee line.

As the spring semester came to a close, so did the gates to Higher Grounds — forever. Without any announcement, the last Irving’s bagel was eaten (in the HUB, at least) and the last Starbucks drink sold.

Higher Grounds will not be replaced by another dining option, but will be transformed into a Student Engagement Space, the location of the newly-formed Student Engagement Network. Barry Bram, the Senior Associate Director for Student Activities, explained the purpose of the space.

“The location is going to be a place that highlights student engagement,” Bram said, “including an interactive portal through which students can learn about the thousands of ways that they can get involved in engaged scholarship, co-curricular activities, and the community.”

This is great news for students trying to get more involved in the Penn State community, but bagel lovers may be disappointed. However, Director of Campus Retail Dining and Catering David Gingher told us Irving’s bagels will still be offered at other locations around campus.

The absence of Higher Grounds is sure to make the lines at the primary Starbucks location longer, but HUB Dining is interested in eventually adding another coffee venue. Until then, the Barnes & Noble location will have to suffice.