Kachelle Pratcher
Staff Writer
The new and improved dining services at Jackson State University are a hot topic among students this spring semester. These services are now under the operation of SodexoMagic, a premier food contractor in the dining business known for providing a restaurant style dining experience.
“Our goal is to come in and provide restaurant quality food while making sure students feel they’re getting their money’s worth,” said Eugene Lebouef, Heritage Dining head chef.
While the Heritage Dining Hall has maintained the buffet style eating experience that was provided by Aramark, the former food service provider, there are many more options. SodexoMagic uses a program called ‘Fresh Expressions’ which provides diners with an upscale restaurant setting and dining experience.
“The Heritage is very nice and the appearance has a classy setting. Jackson State is rebranding itself and since my freshman year the change is a good one,” said Ashley Booker, a senior criminal justice major from Chicago, Ill.
Many students who are health conscious will be pleased with the menu and ingredient information provided at each food station along with a bar code that can be uploaded to the myfitnesspal calorie counter app.
“First we want to be able to present what we have. When you go to a restaurant, you have a menu, nutritional count, and a touch on allergies,” said Lebouef.
Many JSU students are pleased with the new options.
Jeryl Gibson, a sophomore biology major from Terry, Miss., is pleased with the change to SodexoMagic.
“I’m actually happy with the switching of the companies, the food is way more tasteful than last semester,” said Gibson.
Ashlee Brown, a senior political science major from Jackson, Miss., said, “I am happy to see that they brought back the multiple options, especially the fresh spinach for salads.”
Shaquille Carter, a junior computer engineering major from Anguilla, Miss., said: “I am very impressed with the improvements of the dining hall, but I just hope they can keep it going throughout the semester and not become boring with the food choices.”
Chef Leboeuf has big plans for the dining hall and hopes students come to give SodexoMagic a try.
“Utilizing the structure my vision is to be the hottest spot on campus. I want everybody to be able to come here with a full satisfied feeling, asking what they will serve next,” said Leboeuf.
Along with the Heritage Dining Hall, students will also have the following food options to choose from: Pizza Hut Express, Market Place at Legacy, Simply to Go, Starbucks, Chick-fil-a, Bistro 1877, Burger King and 34 Payton Place.
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