A special blend of community partnership brings a Dialogue Coffee House to the Washburn University campus

Topeka, Kan. - A unique collaboration is brewing at Washburn University. In partnership with the Capper Foundation and Dialogue Coffee House, Washburn is now home to a new Dialogue location inside the School of Applied Studies building - formerly known as Mabee Library. As the sixth Dialogue location in Shawnee County, the coffee shop blends its mission of providing employment to individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities with Washburn's values of creating positive impact on campus and in the community. "Inclusion, partnership and community are among our values at Washburn, making this collaboration an excellent fit," said Dr. JuliAnn Mazachek, president, Washburn University. "The opportunity this affords our students, faculty and staff - celebrating and making connections with individuals of all abilities - is something truly special. We are proud to support a space where everyone is empowered to grow and belong." The generosity of several longtime Washburn supporters helped to make the new location possible. Greg and Jaena Greenwood along with Cynthia Heath contributed to the project, calling it a win-win for everyone involved. "This project partners two organizations we are most passionate about and creates an opportunity for Washburn students and the community to learn about overcoming obstacles and being the best version of themselves," said the Greenwoods. "At the same time, the staff of Dialogue Coffee House will be enriched by the skills they build and the people they meet serving the Washburn community." Plans for this new location have been in the works for some time. Dr. Zach Frank, dean of the School of Applied Studies at Washburn, said it quickly became apparent that the partnership would positively affect many people and that working together made sense. The potential benefits go beyond employment or an excellent cup of coffee. "This partnership will provide educational and experiential opportunities for our students as well as Dialogue employees," said Frank. "This new location in the middle of Washburn University's campus also keeps Dialogue employees, who have recently graduated from high school, connected to peers their own age and engaged in a vibrant, college community." Dialogue officially joined the Capper Foundation family in April 2023, allowing the organization to support more individuals in the community with career training and opportunities to be valued, enjoy access and independence to advance their hopes and dreams. "Capper Foundation's collaboration with Washburn University reflects a shared commitment to inclusion, education and community impact," said Zach Ahrens, President and CEO of Capper Foundation. "Dialogue Coffee House is more than just a coffee shop, it's a space for meaningful connection and real-world opportunity. Together, we're empowering individuals of all abilities to build essential life and career skills, while reinforcing Washburn's role as a leader in fostering inclusive excellence. This partnership exemplifies how Capper Foundation, Dialogue Coffee House and Washburn University are working hand in hand to create a stronger, more inclusive future for all." Dialogue Coffee House at Washburn University is open 7:30 a.m. - 2 p.m., Monday through Friday. Operating hours may vary during certain times in the academic calendar. -30- For further information, contact:Lori HutchinsonExec. Dir. of Strategic Communications & MarketingOffice: (785) 670.1711Email: [email protected]