PHILIPPI — Alderson Broaddus University announced Wednesday that the college has signed a 16-year agreement with a food service company that will also provide a $2.5 million investment for upgrades and renovations.

Dr. James “Tim” Barry, president of Alderson Broaddus University, said the school’s continuing partnership with Sodexo Operations, LLC will include a $2.5 million investment for the enhancement of the university’s food service operations and AB’s Campus Center.

“Sodexo and AB have enjoyed a strong and valued partnership over the years,” said Stephen Miller, Sodexo vice president of operations – universities segment. “Sodexo is pleased to further that relationship with a 16-year extension of the dining service contract.”

Along with the new 16-year agreement, Sodexo will invest $1 million to renovate AB’s Campus Center, including constructing a new entrance to the cafeteria, refurbishing Crim Dining Room, updating the HVAC system, reconstructing the salad area and purchasing new tables and chairs.

The dining room will be able to comfortably seat 180 people and the furniture can be rearranged to accommodate special functions, Matt Wilcox, general manager of Sodexo Campus Services at AB, pointed out.

Another $1.2 million will be invested by Sodexo during the next 16 years for additional food service upgrades.

Sodexo will continue to support the Alderson Broaddus scholarship fund with an annual $5 thousand donation, as it has since 2017, officials said.

Barry said AB will make additional campus upgrades this summer, including improvements to the Kemper-Redd Science Hall, the fountain in the Shearer Quadrangle, the Rex Pyles Arena and Memorial Coliseum, Priestly Residence Hall and the parking lots.

All work, including the Sodexo funded improvements, will be completed before students arrive back on campus in August, officials said.