Catering and Food Service

Dining and Event Catering

WSU Vancouver provides a variety of convenient dining options and resources for students, staff, and visitors. Whether you are looking for a quick snack between classes or planning a catered event for a campus organization, understanding our food service guidelines ensures a safe and healthy environment for the entire campus community.

From the daily selections at the campus bookstore to specific health regulations for event organizers, these resources are designed to support your nutritional needs and event logistics. WSU Vancouver prioritizes food safety and compliance with Clark County health standards to protect all participants during campus gatherings.

The Bookie

Located on the ground floor of the Student Services Center, The Bookie offers snacks, beverages, and WSU’s famous Cougar Gold Cheese seasonally.

Vending

Vending machines are tucked in locations across campus, including the Firstenburg Student Commons and the lower level of the Multimedia Classroom Building.

Catering Guidelines

To adhere to county and state regulations and prevent health risks, all catered events must meet the following requirements:

1. The food establishment must possess a valid Clark County Health Permit (or equivalent from their home county).
2. All individuals handling food—from pickup to serving—must carry a valid food handler’s card.
3. Organizers must follow all food safety protocols, including:
   • Proper food temperature and time controls.
   • Correct handwashing, hygiene, and use of clean utensils.
   • Safe storage and accurate date marking.

All catering is subject to inspection by Environmental Health and Safety or the Events Office. Failure to follow these guidelines results in a two-strike enforcement structure:

• First Strike: Responsible parties must complete food safety training.
• Second Strike: Parties are barred from serving prepared foods for the current term but may provide prepackaged items like chips or cookies.
• Critical Violations: Immediate suspension of prepared food privileges for the current term.

Bake Sales and Baked Catering

Events involving personal baked goods must receive prior approval from the Events Office. Only fully baked, non-refrigerated items are permitted. The following criteria apply:

• Maintain strict hygiene standards.
• Package all goods individually before distribution.
• Post a sign listing all ingredients.
• Post a notice stating: The goods were not prepared in a Health Department-inspected kitchen.

Cooking Food on Campus

Washington State University follows strict safety regulations for food preparation. If you intend to cook or prepare food on campus, contact the Events Office or Environmental Health and Safety at least 30 business days before your event. For detailed instructions, review the Food Service Standard Operating Procedure.