Press Release: Joint Statement from Clark Atlanta University and Waffle House

July 1, 2026

Following a review of the “Waffle House Workers Research Findings” summary previously posted by The
W.E.B. Du Bois Southern Center for Studies in Public Policy at Clark Atlanta University, Clark Atlanta University
and Waffle House are issuing the following updates and clarifications.

Clark Atlanta University has removed the summary from its website. The summary described the research
findings as based on a study of Waffle House workers. CAU has clarified that the summary was connected to a
broader research effort examining workforce issues across multiple employers and sectors in the South.

The study was not intended to serve as a comprehensive assessment of Waffle House, its workforce, or its
company-wide policies. As it related to Waffle House, the summary reflected self-reported experiences from
35 survey participants drawn from a broader research effort. The research effort was not designed to
independently verify individual employment details or evaluate Waffle House’s company-specific policies or
practices. Accordingly, the findings of the study itself should be understood with these scope and
methodological limitations in mind.

Clark Atlanta University recognizes that the summary’s presentation raised questions about the nature, scope,
and applicability of the research and conveyed a focus on Waffle House that did not reflect the broader
context of the larger research study. CAU clarifies that the summary did not intend to reflect a review of any
single employer’s company-wide policies and that it would be a mistake to read the summary as a
comprehensive assessment of Waffle House and its company-wide policies. The University is strengthening its
internal review processes for the public dissemination of research summaries and related materials associated
with the institution.

CAU also affirms that academic research conducted by faculty reflects the independent scholarly work of
researchers and does not necessarily represent the official positions, endorsements, or conclusions of the
University.

Waffle House greatly appreciates CAU’s clarification and highly respects the University’s leadership.
As a major Atlanta employer with many proud CAU and HBCU graduates among its management leadership
team and its associates, Waffle House supports CAU’s long legacy of academic excellence and its vital role in
our shared community.