Bonding through a cookbook

For the past 21 years, we have provided packets of popular recipes to students, faculty, staff and alumni at their request. But about three years ago, we decided to compile the most popular recipes into a cookbook. Released in October 2013, the “Best Bites” cookbook contains the university’s most requested recipes, including Panther Chili and Beef Ole. We modified and tested recipes for home preparation, which took more than three years to complete. The cookbook is available at campus and community bookstores, and all proceeds will help maintain our program and fund special student events. It’s fun for us to reconnect with alumni. Since the cookbook was released, I’ve had so many emails saying, “I love your Panther Chili,” and, “I went 10 years ago and this is what I remember!”

Carol FletcherAssistant Director for Residential DiningNorthern Iowa UniversityCedar Falls, IA