In the final phase of the Immaculate Conception Parish Capital Campaign, Preserving Tradition, Preparing for the Future, Immaculata High School announces a complete renovation of its cafeteria. Previous projects for the campaign included the state-of-the-art Immaculata Theater, Immaculata roof enhancements, renovation of the Immaculate Conception School Cafeteria and Art Room and replacement of several large sections of the Church’s roof. Plans for a final project for the Parish Center are under careful consideration and will be presented once finalized.
The Immaculata Cafeteria, which is original to the 1962 main building, will now feature:
- new heating and air-conditioning system
- new windows and flooring
- new furniture and lighting
- new storage space
- new technology and security capabilities
- new serving area
Demolition began in early June with completion expected by mid-August, in time for the start of school in September, 2019. Design and development of the project were handled by SEK Architects of Bernards Township, under the direction of owner Stephen Kowalski ‘92 and Alexa McCartney Ortiz ‘03 who also served as the architects of the renovated Immaculata theater.
Construction will be completed by Image, LLC of Branchburg, the same firm that so beautifully completed the school’s theater project. SEK and Image have proven to be a fantastic team and most helpful in proposing the best designs, while partnering with Immaculata to bring about these wonderful changes in our buildings. In addition, Bob Petix, (a parent of three alumni, Robert ‘95, Brian ‘98 and Lisa ‘06) of MAP Restaurant Supplies, of Newark has been the lead in purchasing new equipment for the serving area.
“The cafeteria renovation is so exciting to the entire Immaculata community,” says Immaculata Head of School Joan Silo. “This will serve our Spartans for generations to come. The whole look has such a contemporary feel and all of us appreciate the added bonus of air-conditioning, new furnishings, and technology enhancements, which include four TV monitors.
“Key to this project and all our innovations is the financial and professional support of our parents, alumni, and donor friends. In education today, there is no standing still, so it is imperative that we are continuing to push through initiatives to enhance our campus, academics, athletics, music programs, and our faith-based programs. This cafeteria update is a very visible manifestation of our commitment to the future and our on-going need for our Immaculata family to be behind us.”