Adiya Martin
Spelman College
Spartanburg, SC
"By maintaining its status as a welcoming, 24-hour destination, Denny’s becomes a place where friendships are made, stories are shared, and communities are strengthened."
Aniya Puryear
Temple University
Philadelphia, PA
"The diner often adjusts its menu and hosts special events that reflect local customs and traditions. By embracing this diversity, Denny's attracts a wide range of customers and fosters a spirit of inclusion."
Auris Woods
Towson University
White Marsh, MD
"By employing people from various backgrounds, Denny's can ensure their staff is representative of the local population, making customers feel more comfortable and understood."
Aziyah Harps
Spelman College
Atlanta , GA
"Denny’s—a gathering place where people from all walks of life find connection through a shared meal. Denny’s can build on this by creating intentional opportunities for community engagement. - hosting “Unity Table Nights,” where diverse groups are invited to share a meal and meaningful conversations."
Brielle Lane
The Community College of Baltimore County
Rosedale, MD
"Denny’s helps bring communities together through the affordability of their menu. Considering their value meal deal– which ranges from $2-$8, I believe that affordability helps the restaurant out a lot because everyone can buy their food for a reasonable price."
Charity Cloud
Oglethorpe University
Fayetteville, GA
"Using the local partnerships that involve educators and professionals, Denny's could create a network of support that helps students succeed academically and socially. Rewarding students' creativity and propelling them to make a change while receiving their education allows them to chase their dreams, which is what the program is about."
Chase Carter
University of South Carolina Upstate
Orangeburg, SC
"Hosting community events that celebrate different cultures and traditions would bring people together and create an environment where everyone feels valued."
Dane Briscoe
St. John's University
, Washington DC
"By offering family-friendly activities such as board game nights or kids’ story hours, or even providing free meeting space for local groups, the diner can strengthen its reputation as a community hub. Denny’s has the power to bring people together over a shared meal and shared purpose."
Ewidji Vincent
MassBay Community College Transitional Scholars Program
Boston, MA
"People with disabilities have been told by others that they can not go to school because of their disability. Denny’s is giving individuals like me the hope for tomorrow, and that will also help an individual’s family for the next generation as well."
Favour Badewole
Fisk University
Nashville , TN
"Denny's may grow its educational programs, such as having more scholarship opportunities provided and giving seminars and training sessions to empower people with the tools they need to be successful in their area."
Gabriella Sanchez
University of Oregon
Eugene, OR
"Denny’s could sponsor workshops or performances that highlight the contributions of underrepresented communities. As someone interested in teacher education and theatre, I know how impactful these experiences can be in shaping young minds and promoting empathy."
Jace Dominguez
University of Miami
Clovis, CA
"Denny’s can use its spaces to support local artists, musicians, and small business owners. Hosting open-mic nights, art shows, or pop-up shops can give local talent a platform to showcase their work, bringing people together in a relaxed, social environment."
Jacob Castro
California State University of Fresno
Bakersfield, CA
"I saw Denny’s play a crucial role during holidays or difficult times when people may have felt lonely. Denny’s doors are open 24/7, which provides a place for individuals to gather, share a meal, and find comfort in other’s company."
Jake Wight
Denmark Technical College
Myrtle Beach, SC
"Overall, Denny’s has a special ability to bring people together in a way that other places don’t. It’s open, affordable, welcoming, and has something for everyone."
Jocelyn Eldemire
University of Akron
Elyria, OH
"Denny’s ability to bring communities together stems from its inclusive environment, diverse menu, and round-the-clock availability. By creating a welcoming space where people can come together to share meals and experiences, Denny’s creates a sense of community and belonging that is essential in today’s world."
John Brown
Georgia State University
Hampton, GA
"Denny's can bring communities together is by hosting events that cater to various age groups and interests. For example, the restaurant could organize family game nights, which allow families to enjoy time together while engaging in fun activities."
Jovani Cabellero Duran
Colorado School of Mines
Colorado Springs, CO
"Just like in a pantry Denny's can bring many people together for the same reasons. Life goes fast and sometimes it's better to take time and let life slow for a bit. Denny's can do that for the fact that its food, food can help anyone out and help the many decide to bring everyone together."
Justin Rice
University of South Carolina
Spartanburg, SC
"By hosting community breakfasts and partnering with local shelters and organizations, Denny’s could provide meals to those in need and serve as platforms to connect individuals with resources for housing, healthcare, and job training."
Keshawn Crockrom
Virginia State University
Chicago, IL
"Beyond just food, Denny’s engages in community-focused initiatives, such as supporting local charities and hosting fundraising events. These efforts strengthen ties within neighborhoods, encouraging people to come together for a common cause."
