Rane Culinary Science Center

The Tony & Libba Rane Culinary Science Center, located at Auburn University in Auburn, Alabama, is a state-of-the-art facility dedicated to advancing education and research in the hospitality industry. Established in 2022, this 142,000-square-foot center serves as a hub for students pursuing degrees in hospitality management, culinary science, brewing science, and event management.

Designed to provide immersive, hands-on learning experiences, the center integrates academic instruction with real-world applications. It houses the Horst Schulze School of Hospitality Management, offering programs that prepare students for diverse careers within the hospitality sector.

A standout feature of the center is the 32-room boutique teaching hotel, The Laurel Hotel & Spa. This hotel offers students practical experience in hotel operations, guest services, and management.

Adjacent to the hotel is 1856 – Culinary Residence, a teaching restaurant that provides an ever-changing culinary experience under the guidance of a chef-in-residence. This restaurant allows students to engage in all aspects of restaurant management, from menu development to front-of-house operations.

The center also boasts a 9,000-square-foot food hall known as Hey Day Market. It features multiple food vendors and a coffee roastery and bar. This vibrant space serves as a gathering place for students and the local community, offering diverse culinary options and fostering an environment of creative innovation.

Facilities and Features

• Brewing Science Laboratory and Wine Appreciation Laboratory for hands-on training in brewing and wine education.
• Preparation for careers in the growing craft beverage industry.
• Integration of academic and practical hospitality training.

The Tony & Libba Rane Culinary Science Center has been recognized for its innovative design and educational impact, receiving the 2024 Facility Design Project of the Year award from Foodservice Equipment & Supplies magazine.

Location

• Auburn, Alabama
• Columbus, GA, USA

The center serves as a central hub for hospitality education, offering students unparalleled opportunities to develop their skills and prepare for successful careers in the industry.