University of Jamestown Dedicates Badal Nafus Student Union, Celebrating Resilience and a New Chapter in Campus Life

Nearly two years after a devastating fire, the University celebrates a transformed student union and cafeteria, with special recognitions honoring members of the Jimmie community.

Jamestown, ND (10/14/2026) — Nearly two years after a devastating fire destroyed its cafeteria, the University of Jamestown welcomed alumni, students, faculty, staff, donors and friends back to the heart of campus Friday, October 9, for the dedication of the newly transformed Badal Nafus Student Union and The Caf by 405 Fresh. The Homecoming weekend celebration also included surprise announcements honoring two beloved members of the Jimmie community.

Held outdoors in the new garden patio space during Homecoming weekend, the ceremony marked a significant milestone in a journey defined by unexpected challenges, extraordinary generosity and a campus community determined to move forward together.

"Today, we dedicate our new cafeteria and the completed Badal Nafus Student Union," said University of Jamestown President Dr. Polly Peterson. "But what we are really celebrating today is not a building. We are celebrating people. We are celebrating resilience, generosity, faith-and perhaps most of all, what it means to be a Jimmie."

The celebration came nearly 22 months after a January fire left the University without its primary dining facility. In the days that followed, faculty, staff, community members and local businesses rallied to ensure students continued to have access to meals. The University eventually established a temporary cafeteria inside the Hansen Center, where students have gathered for meals throughout the rebuilding process.

For UJ student Kacie Rexin, who was awakened by a friend in the middle of the night as the original fire unfolded, the experience became a defining memory of her time at UJ.

"We didn't let an unexpected setback stop us. We found a way forward," Rexin told those gathered for the dedication. "And now standing here today, we get to see what that way forward looks like."

Rexin reflected on the unusual experience of eating meals surrounded by basketball hoops and bleachers, but also on the relationships and sense of community that endured despite the disruption.

"This new cafeteria and student union lounge gives us students a place to gather. To eat a meal, study, relax, and simply just spend time together," Rexin said. "Because some of the most important parts of college don't necessarily happen inside the classroom."

The transformed Badal Nafus Student Union offers a renewed center for student life, with welcoming spaces for dining, studying, socializing and gathering. The Caf by 405 Fresh introduces a refreshed campus dining experience, while the adjacent Candy Unruh Garden provides an outdoor setting for students and visitors to connect.

The project was made possible through the generosity of donors and supporters who stepped forward following the fire, including Ed and Elaine Nafus, whose longstanding commitment to the University helped make the transformation possible.

"I'm happy to be here. I'm happy about everything that has happened here and how we have come through," Ed Nafus said, addressing the crowd. "It's proof that despite all things, nothing can stop the Jimmie spirit. The Jimmie spirit is real."

Peterson shared that the Nafuses' support gave the University the confidence to move forward with rebuilding even before its insurance claim had been settled.

"Your extraordinary generosity gave us the courage to begin rebuilding long before the insurance claim was settled," Peterson said. "More importantly, you helped us believe we didn't have to simply replace what was lost. We could build something even better."

The building's name also honors Dr. Robert Badal, former University president, whose leadership and dedication to students helped shape the institution. Ed Nafus, a longtime trustee and supporter, previously helped establish the Nafus Student Center and advocated for Badal's name to be placed before his own in recognition of his service.

"Names are important. They are nice recognition." Nafus said. "Every name around this campus is because of someone who wants this place to be successful."

Peterson also recognized Pembina Pipeline, which contributed $50,000 after representatives approached University leadership at a community prayer service and potluck shortly after the fire, asking how they could help.

Beyond recognizing those who helped make the transformation possible, Friday's ceremony included two surprise announcements honoring individuals whose dedication and service have left a lasting mark on the University of Jamestown.

The new outdoor garden and patio space was officially named the Candy Unruh Garden in honor of Candy Unruh, a devoted supporter of UJ whose generosity, strong faith and commitment to her community reflect the values at the heart of the institution. The garden serves as a tribute to her lasting impact and provides a welcoming place for students, faculty, staff and visitors to connect and grow.

Inside The Caf by 405 Fresh, another familiar name received surprise, special recognition. One of the dining stations was named Marge's Grille in honor of Marge Thompson, a beloved member of the University's dining services team who has served generations of Jimmies for 25 years.

"Marge's Grill stands as a celebration of all our longtime dining employees whose care and dedication have helped make UJ feel like home to generations of Jimmies," said Vice President for Student Affairs Dustin Jensen.

He continued, addressing all the dining center staff in attendance: "Showing all of you the appreciation you deserve is impossible, but we are forever in your debt. This new dining facility is built on the foundation of your commitment to the UJ family, with some of you carrying nearly 30 years of service from the previous building."

The ceremony concluded with a ribbon cutting alongside representatives of Jamestown Area Chamber of Commerce, donors, University trustees and Cabinet members. Guests were then invited to tour the renovated facilities, enjoy refreshments and experience the new spaces firsthand

While final work on the larger project will continue in the coming weeks, the dedication marked a moment of celebration for a campus that has navigated considerable change.

For Peterson, the transformation represents something greater than new facilities. It reflects the enduring relationships and shared commitment that have carried the University through its most difficult moments.

"A building can be taken away. A home cannot-not when home is found in each other," she said.

About University of Jamestown

University of Jamestown is consistently ranked as a top regional university in the Midwest by U.S. News & World Report. Founded in 1883 as Jamestown College, UJ is a private, Christian career-oriented liberal arts University that offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs. At the bachelor's level, students can pursue degrees in the arts, sciences, and nursing. The university also grants master's and doctoral degrees in healthcare, leadership, and business. To expand access to its high-quality education, University of Jamestown launched UJ Accelerated, its online division, which delivers intensive upskilling opportunities to learners across diverse settings. For more information about academic offerings, campus life, and online programs, please visit UJ.edu.

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