Fresh, Flavorful, and Finally Here: The Commons at Downstate Opens
By Office of the President | Jan 6, 2026
Downstate closed 2025 with something everyone appreciated: a first look at The Commons, our newly reimagined dining and gathering space designed for the pace, diversity, and energy of an academic medical center.
The Commons reflects a thoughtful understanding of how people move through their day and what they need to stay focused and supported. Expanded seating, improved flow, brighter natural light, and calm, inviting design elements come together to create a welcoming environment that supports both quick meals and meaningful connections. There is also a new faculty lounge where faculty can take advantage of the peaceful surroundings with access to great food and numerous places are available for collaborating and working in a quiet setting.
Guests at the soft launch sampled offerings from several new dining stations, including Pizza and More, the Deli and Grill, a rotating entrée station with traditional and plant-based options, and the popular Action Station, where burrito bowls and wraps are made to order. The result is a dining experience that is flexible, flavorful, and designed to meet a wide range of tastes and schedules.
This transformation reflects months of collaboration throughout our campus. Special thanks to UHD interim chief executive officer, Patricia A. Winston, DNP, MS; James Minto, Vice President, Facilities Management & Development (FM&D); the FM&D team; Kijana Corbin, MBA, Assistant Vice President, Hospital Facilities; UHD Facilities team; the Skilled Trades teams, and Alesia Varga, Project Manager, whose expertise and dedication brought the vision for The Commons to life. Thank you also to our partners at Sodexo for their continued collaboration and commitment, including Marcia Gordon, Retail Operations Manager, as well as to the phenomenal Team Café Sodexo. We also extend a gracious welcome to The Commons’ new manager, Kevin Ng.
More than a renovation, The Commons represents an investment in everyday campus life, creating a place to refuel, recharge, and reconnect. The Commons’ opening reminds us of the progress, momentum, and continued commitment to supporting the people who power Downstate and Brooklyn.
Tags: Capital Improvements, Events