Einstein Bros. Bagels will cease operations on campus at the end of the 2025–26 academic year, with its final day scheduled for May 6, 2026.

       According to Director of Dining Services Bruce Turnbough, the decision was made by Einstein Bros.’ corporate leadership as part of a broader shift in its business model.

         “Einstein Bros. Bagels corporate office, overtime has made some changes to their revenue / sales structure that has led them to seek a different direction with their smaller units,” Turnbough said. “In doing so, it has unfortunately led them to the decision to end its partnership with Chartwells at Rockhurst University.”

       Dining operations will remain unchanged through the end of the current academic year.

        Beginning in fall 2026, the location will be replaced by a new campus-operated concept called “The Daily Bagel,” which Turnbough said will resemble Einstein Bros. in many ways while allowing for more flexibility.

          “It will be similar in many ways with the biggest difference being that we can customize our operation / menu to better fit student wants and needs,” Turnbough said. “Traditional ‘bagel’ sandwiches will be served alongside Starbucks WPS coffee.”

       Turnbough confirmed that the transition was not influenced by student feedback.

       “There was no student feedback that led to the decision for Einsteins or Chartwells to end the partnership,” he said.

         Prices and portion sizes are expected to remain similar under the new concept, though Dining Services plans to introduce additional value options.

         “Chartwells plans to introduce weekly value meals and bundles to help add variety and value to the operation,” Turnbough said.

        The new location will continue to accept dining dollars and Hawk Dollars, with the potential addition of meal exchange options during certain times of the day.

        Turnbough also said current employees are expected to remain through the transition.

         Looking ahead, Dining Services does not currently plan additional changes to campus dining but says it will continue to evaluate student needs.

      “We always welcome input and feedback from students and customers to help us better understand and meet the needs of our students,” Turnbough said.