Stephens College announced on December 2 that it has purchased Nourish Café + Market, the beloved downtown Columbia restaurant known for its organic, locally sourced, nutrient-rich menu. Stephens’ first major acquisition under the leadership of President Shannon B. Lundeen supports the College’s growing emphasis on experiential learning and community-centered innovation.
Located at 1201 E. Broadway, Suite B, Nourish will continue to operate with its existing mission and menu philosophy, remaining entirely free of gluten, soy, corn, refined sugar, preservatives, and inflammatory oils. The restaurant will also offer a unique learning opportunity for Stephens students studying business, marketing, communication design, and related fields. Even better, the net revenue will support student scholarships – so patrons can feel good about their dollars going to fuel their bodies and educational opportunities.
“This purchase reflects our commitment to an education model grounded in real experience and meaningful community partnerships,” said President Lundeen. “Nourish is already a space centered on health, creativity, and connection. Now it will also be an extension of the classroom where students build skills, confidence, and career readiness.”
Nourish Will Remain Nourish
As part of the transition, Kalle LeMone, owner and co-founder of Nourish, has worked closely with the College to ensure continuity for customers and staff.
“Nourish has always been about intentional food, local sourcing, and contributing to the well-being of Columbia,” said LeMone. “Stephens College shares those values, and this next chapter allows Nourish to continue thriving while also giving students a unique place to learn and grow.”
Josh Old, longtime manager at Nourish, will remain in his leadership role, and the rest of the staff will stay in place, ensuring that the restaurant’s identity, quality, and culture remain intact.
“It’s an exciting moment,” Old said. “I look forward to mentoring students and helping them develop real-world experience that will serve them long after graduation.”
A Living Classroom for Stephens Students
Beginning in 2026, Stephens students will have the opportunity to learn key aspects of running Nourish, including:
Supply chain and vendor relations
Operations and customer experience
Digital marketing and social media strategy
Branding, design, and storytelling
Business planning, management, and leadership
Faculty will eventually embed course assignments, capstones, and internships directly into Nourish operations.
“This is experiential learning at its best,” said Dr. Scott Taylor, Dean of Workforce Development and Continuing Studies and Chair of the Business Administration Program. “Students will be working inside a real enterprise, with real responsibilities, making decisions that matter.”
President Lundeen outlines the College’s strategic vision during a presentation to the Board of Trustees.
Strengthening Community Wellness and Local Partnerships
The acquisition reinforces Stephens’ long-standing commitment to the Columbia community. Nourish will continue its legacy of partnering with local farmers, vendors, and small businesses, supporting sustainable and organic food systems while expanding opportunities for student-led collaborations.
“As a downtown establishment, Nourish already plays a vital role in Columbia’s wellness ecosystem,” LeMone said. “With Stephens at the helm, that impact will only grow.”
A Vision for the Future
The Nourish acquisition aligns with Stephens’ strategic vision, supporting institutional priorities around academic innovation, student success, visibility, and community engagement. It also lays the foundation for expanded applied-learning initiatives that will unfold in future phases of the College’s long-term planning.
“Stephens is building a future where students learn by doing, every day, in meaningful ways,” said President Lundeen. “Nourish is the beginning of that larger vision.”
About Nourish Café + Market
Since its founding in 2016, Nourish Café + Market has been dedicated to serving healthy, sustainably sourced meals, cold-pressed juices, superfood smoothies, and health-focused desserts. The menu remains entirely free of gluten, soy, corn, refined sugar, preservatives, and inflammatory oils. Under Stephens College ownership, Nourish will continue its mission while expanding opportunities for students and deepening its connection to the community.
About Stephens College
Founded in 1833, Stephens College is a leader in undergraduate women’s education and an innovator in flexible, co-educational graduate and certificate programs. The College is home to the Conservatory for the Performing Arts, welcoming students of all genders into nationally recognized theatre and film programs. With a focus on experiential learning and job readiness, Stephens prepares graduates for high-demand careers that strengthen and enrich communities. Learn more at stephens.edu.
