By Heidi Hiasson | Assistant Director of University, Communications, University of Oregon
When Lavelle Allen stepped up to the counter at the new KISS coffee shop on the University of Oregon campus, owner Sarah Pearson asked if she wanted her regular order – a latte and poppyseed muffin.
It’s common for KISS employees to get to know their regulars. But in this case, Allen had moved from the neighborhood the year before, and this was a new location for KISS on the University of Oregon Portland campus.
“This is exactly why we all love KISS. They are so friendly and part of the community,” Allen says. She and Mary Knocke found a table in front of two-story windows in the Library and Learning Center, where KISS on Campus is located. The sun was bright and warm, even though frost still covered the grass near the amphitheater outside.
Knocke, who has lived in the neighborhood since 2006, sipped her mocha. “I walk every day. That’s how we met,” she gestures at Allen. “We lived on the same street, and we would see each other out walking. I used to walk here with a book and get a coffee.”
The two talked about the worry within the neighborhood when the campus became empty and what might happen to it. “It was a sigh of relief when we heard about the University of Oregon,” says Allen. “The neighborhood likes having a university here. It makes it feel like a college town. Having KISS open here makes it just that much better.”
Pearson owns the business with her husband, Trae. The first location opened in June 2019.
“We were outgrowing our current space and wanted a second location close by. We wanted to take that step with our community,” Pearson says. “They’ve been fantastic with their support. U of O fits in with the community, too. Everyone is kind and friendly and it’s been a smooth transition.”
KISS on Campus opened in January. It serves the seasonal coffees and housemade pastries that customers have come to know. It also serves bagels and lunch sandwiches, and is working on building out a grab-and-go section as well. In addition to neighbors, this location has become a favorite spot for U of O students, employees and those working on the renovations to the campus.
“It has good energy,” says Maleka Blake as she orders a decaf oatmilk latte with extra caramel. Blake works for Multnomah County Library, which has a temporary location on the other side of the building. “Also, make sure to try the seasonal jam on an everything bagel with cream cheese.”
KISS on Campus is located at 2800 NE Liberty St. in the Library and Learning Center on the University of Oregon Portland campus. Hours are 8 a.m.-3 p.m. Monday-Friday.
Heidi Hiaasen has been with the University of Oregon since 2008 in a variety of communications roles. She works at the new UO Portland campus and enjoys exploring the Concordia Neighborhood