At Winthrop, a new student-run organization is taking off by combining free coffee and community.
By Kira Rich
Staff Writer
Free Coffee is a space built by students, for students, where anyone can unwind, share a laugh, and grab a free cup of caffeine without the pressure of spending a dime. Free coffee is located in Kinard 12 and will be curating immaculate vibes along with freshly brewed coffee throughout the day.
The idea for Free Coffee began when Bryan Ghent read “Where Am I Eating” with an HMXP class a few years back.
“That book explored where our coffee comes from, and it sparked a discussion about why we only have coffee chains on campus and what it would take for students to run their own coffee shop,” Ghent said. “It took a while to act on the idea, but this summer we finally realized it was possible. We got chartered last month, and now we’re officially trying it; a completely student-run space.”
From the décor to the playlists to the coffee itself, Free Coffee reflects students’ creativity and collaboration.
“The goal has always been to create something where students decide everything from the decorations, the music, the vibe,” Ghent said.
With the rate at which college students consume coffee, it only makes sense that it remains inexpensive for convenience. Coffee chains such as Starbucks are prevalent on campus; however, it’s not always convenient due to the price or time spent.
Ghent said Free Coffee serves as a solution for students looking for an alternative.
“It’s just one of these ideas where it seemed like there was maybe another alternative to just having to pay that much for a cup of coffee, like on the go and actually have a place that you could be in charge of,” Ghent said. “It’s donation-only, so it’s not about profit; it’s about giving people a place to hang out.”
Senior philosophy and religion major Levi Becht, president of the club, describes Free Coffee as “a third space”. The club’s first official meeting was held on October 27, 2025, as plans for the rest of the semester were finalized.
“Right now we’re still getting the space ready, just waiting on some furniture and setting up,” Becht said. “We’re planning to be fully up and running by the end of the semester.”
Becht also encouraged anyone interested to get involved. Students interested in helping out can contact the club at FreeCoffee.winthrop.edu.
“If anyone wants to help or get involved, they should reach out to me,” Becht said.
Professor Ghent shared that the club already has an unofficial theme song: “What’s Going On” by Marvin Gaye. “It gets played the most and hits the right vibe for the space,” Ghent said.
With its welcoming atmosphere, fluid soundtrack, and community-driven energy, Free Coffee aspires to be more than just a student club. It’s a space on campus designed by students for students to bond, one cup at a time.
