MBS Celebrates Completion of Dining Hall Renovation

Morristown Beard School celebrated the re-opening of its fully renovated Dining Hall today with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, unveiling the Lee Kellogg Sadrian Dining Hall, named in honor of Lee Kellogg Sadrian ’89, P’26, ’28, Vice President of the MBS Board of Trustees. The transformed space is designed to foster connection, community, and daily enjoyment for students, faculty, and staff.

Originally built more than 30 years ago, the Dining Hall has long been a central gathering place on campus. Over the years, it had remained largely unchanged, despite the growing needs of the School community. This renovation represents a comprehensive update, blending modern functionality with a renewed emphasis on social connection and student experience.

The renovation includes a completely redesigned kitchen, refreshed dining area with flexible seating, a café, expanded service areas, enhanced acoustics, and a “meeting wall” with digital displays to keep the community informed about events, announcements, and opportunities to connect.

“This dining hall rivals many college dining halls I’ve seen. It is simply spectacular,” said Interim Head of School Philicia Levinson P’19. She added, “I want to thank the Board of Trustees, especially Lee Kellogg Sadrian, for her extraordinary support and leadership. And to our students and faculty for their patience and adaptability during the renovation — it was noticed and greatly appreciated.”

MBS Board President Michael Morais P’22, ’24, ’26 emphasized the student-centered nature of the project. “To our students, to the fellow Crimson, this project was done with you in mind, exclusively, so that you would enjoy it and have the best dining hall of any independent or public school.” He also noted how Lee Kellogg Sadrian was the driving force behind the renovation, with her “philanthropic leadership and guidance throughout the project."

For Mrs. Sadrian, the Dining Hall represents much more than a place to eat. “MBS has always been a place to gather, laugh, and share stories,” she said. “It’s where community happens, where connections are built, and memories are made. That spirit made this project feel incredibly worthwhile. The Dining Hall has always been a place, not just to eat, but to connect — and now it reflects the vibrancy and heart of our School community.”

With the renovation now complete, the Lee Kellogg Sadrian Dining Hall stands as a central hub of student life. From daily lunches to snacks after school, it provides a space where students can connect with friends, share ideas, and build lasting memories. The combination of modern amenities, flexible seating, and a welcoming atmosphere ensures that this iconic space will serve as the heart of campus life for years to come.