In just 15 minutes, the Buzz emptied for the last time.
Coffee house manager Shelly Pruitt had opened the door one last time to students, hoping a party would show customer appreciation throughout 15 years of service. A flood of students poured in the coffee house, looking for free food and drinks.
“It was overwhelming,” Pruitt said. “Within 15 minutes, we were out of food, and now (at 5:30 p.m.) we are out of everything. I had to lock the door.”
The plan for the going-away party was initially to include the Duck Stand-Up Comedy Club, but due to unexpected failure of infrastructure, the Union Market and the Buzz had to close earlier.
But for students and faculty who came to say goodbye, it was more than just a chaotic scene.
Freshman Zander Vavalis felt disappointed to see The Buzz closing.
“It’s the best spot on campus for sure,” Vavalis said. “I always come here to chill out or do homework. I love the atmosphere in here.”
Faculty Monte Matthews is the long-time customer of The Buzz since the coffee house opened.
“It’s sad to not be able to get my latte every morning anymore,” Matthews said. “I’ll miss it.”
At the sandwich bar, a group of student staff working at the coffee house hugged each other while saying goodbye to their “second home.”
Senior Michael McGovern has been working for the Buzz for three years.
“I’ll miss coming here,” McGovern said. “This is such a great place to come and be myself.”
Pruitt is moving on to University of Oregon Housing.
“Now I just try to look for the future,” Pruitt said. “There will be more to do.”