KENDAL RAMSEY
Kennesaw State University
Peachtree Corners, GA
"To me, community is a very important factor when I consider it’s impact on the betterment of our cities, states, country, and the world. Me being a part of my community has made me into the person I am today. It has taught me how to be respectful, responsible, and more importantly, how to be a positive contributor to society."
AMIIA BURNETT
Tennessee State University
Indianapolis, IN
"The Indianapolis Urban League would get the word out to the families in their programs to get people to come out and meet together in the Denny's building. This would also put out a good look on the company because they are giving back to others which can lead to more customers and families wanting to return every year."
ZAVION HENDERSON
Bowling Green State University
Elyria, OH
"One key aspect is Denny's role as a common ground for diverse individuals. Its affordable pricing and broad menu appeal to a wide demographic, making it an accessible meeting place for people from various walks of life. Families, students, professionals, and seniors can all find something they enjoy at Denny's, creating a cross- generational and cross-cultural space for communal gatherings."
TRINITY CORTEZ-ANSLEY
University of California Berkeley
El Cajon, CA
"For instance, we could have a brunch-and-learn, where Project Ready students, faculty and volunteers come together and eat at Denny’s while being able to hold our normal meetings, or after our early morning, Saturday meetings, students can while to Denny’s and show their affiliation with Project Ready and eat with their families, half price for their meals."
CARRYN GILBERT
University of Michigan – Ann Arbor
Detroit, MI
"By supporting local businesses and contributing to the local economy, Denny's can strengthen the community's economic foundation and foster a sense of pride and ownership among residents. With community gatherings like scholarship giveaways, food drives, a job fair, and not the usual block parties Denny’s can bring people together for a common cause and create a sense of unity and purpose within the community."
RAHUL REBELLO
University Massachusetts Boston
Brookline, MA
"Denny's commitment to helping and providing affordable and accessible dining options and makes it a gathering place for diverse social groups. Regardless of the financial means, people can come together to enjoy a meal, breaking down the economic barriers, that often do break apart communities because of their financial backgrounds."
HANNAH COSTA
Emerson College
Oaks Bluffs, MA
"With love and a lot of dedication, Denny’s helps unify the community and makes a difference in the lives of hundreds of people. And given all this it’s not surprising the giant community believes in Denny’s, and I end this saying: Thank you Denny’s, for existing, and for making the world a better place, especially for us who are part of this community who need companies like you."
TORI WATSON
Francis Marion University
Latta, SC
"Denny's can also create a welcoming and inclusive environment within their restaurants. By providing a space where people from all walks of life can gather, dine, and enjoy good food. Denny's encourages diversity and fosters a sense of belonging within the community."
DE’ASIA DANIELS
University of Georgia
Thomasville, GA
"Whether it's supporting local schools, participating in neighborhood clean-up initiatives, or contributing to social causes, Denny's aims to be a responsible corporate citizen that listens to and addresses the specific needs of the communities it serves. Denny's sees itself not just as a restaurant but as a dynamic force for positive change, bringing communities together in meaningful and lasting ways."
NIA DOUGLASS
Valdosta State University
Miami, FL
"Shared meals at Denny's can facilitate conversations and interactions between those who would not typically have the opportunity to connect, fostering understanding and empathy among community members. Multicultural events, such as themed nights or menu offerings highlighting different cuisines, can help showcase and appreciate the diverse backgrounds present within the community, thereby promoting a sense of unity."
DIAMOND WALKER
University of South Carolina Upstate
Spartanburg, SC
"I believe friends taking me to dinner, family members offering to make my favorite meals, and strangers making sure I could afford groceries while I could not work helped me survive a devastating time. This type of empathy and care is mirrored throughout many communities."
INAYA GRAY
Dillard University
Boilingbrook, IL
"Doing so will not only boost the local economy but also create a connection between the restaurants and their local communities. In a similar vein, Denny’s can partner with community businesses for cross- promotions and to co-sponsor events. Such collaboration will strengthen the sense of community and encourage residents to explore a variety of local offerings."
ESHIOBOMHE SIGMUS AIMOFUMHE
Fisk University
Nashville, TN
"But wait, why can't Denny's spice things up a bit? Think about hosting events that showcase different cultures, cuisines, and traditions. How about giving local artists a stage through open mic nights or talent shows? And hey, why not partner with schools for workshops right there in the restaurant? It's not just about serving meals; it's about creating a living, breathing community hub."
KHAMAYA BROWN
University of South Carolina Upstate
Elloree, SC
"During this event, employees from the school such as the principal and teachers could volunteer to serve families for about 3-4 hours. This event would bring many families into the restaurant and would also allow school personnel to meet and serve families in a difference capacity. Denny’s could also give the school fifty percent of sales during those hours."
HANNAH FREEMAN
Biola University
Farmington, NM
"Through the tragedies and deaths that have plagued my hometown, the community has never been less selfless or caring. It remains a supportive, loving, and benevolent family of people who prioritize a strong community through tangible support. I am beyond grateful to be a part of it."
LILIANA MARTINEZ
The University of Texas at Austin
Laredo, TX
"In my community, which is essentially an extended family, the essence of belonging is deeply rooted. As a member of the Hispanic community, family gatherings are frequent, adorned with abundant food for all. A cherished saying among us is, "It's better to have leftovers than to have hungry people." This adage encapsulates the core value of inclusivity in our community."
NATALIE HUERFANO
Clemson University
Piedmont, SC
"Parades consist of rallies of people with traditional garments, embroidered skirts, hand-woven hats, and baskets of flowers created with the historical resources of our home countries. Cultural dances all have stories connecting to our main communal values of love and history. Our favorite artists create widespread music that touches every part of the world making our main foundation for bonding and family."
ABRAHAM HERNADEZ
Aurora University
West Chicago, IL
"Denny's has the potential to transform from just a restaurant into a catalyst for community engagement and cultural exchange. Through thoughtful and culturally sensitive initiatives, it can play a crucial role in preserving and promoting the Mexican community's traditions, engaging our youth, and fostering an inclusive environment."
SOPHIA BACALLO
Florida State University
Miami, FL
"My mother, who raised me on her own and also takes care of my 89- year-old grandmother, always made sure that at least once a month, we would sit down as a family to enjoy a Grand Slam breakfast and my favorite chocolate chip pancakes. It was one of my favorite things to do growing up and it was our way of taking some time as a family to spend time together, enjoy good food, and reconnect and recharge for the week."
