Grambling State University on Monday announced the launch of a long-term partnership with a new dining service provider SodexoMAGIC. The new agreement will deliver $6.7 million in facility renovations, new major-brand quick-serve restaurants, and 24-hour dining.
“The best part of our new program is that we, as students, are driving the design,” said Steven Wilson, rising senior and President of the University’s Student Government Association. “I’m grateful to President Gallot and the entire administration for how they’ve helped turn our comments, emails, and surveys into an experience that supports all of our students.”
The University’s partnership comes as a result of a collaborative RFP process where students, faculty and staff weighed in on proposals from America’s leading dining service providers. The winning finalist, SodexoMAGIC, is well known for its chairman, NBA legend Earvin “Magic” Johnson, and its service to universities and corporate clients that include Delta Airlines, the Walt Disney Company, the Federal Reserve Bank, and Toyota.
“This agreement is a great example of what is possible when Universities put our students first,” said Rick Gallot, president of Grambling State. “We are fortunate to collaborate with a partner, like SodexoMAGIC who understands the holistic needs of our students.”
The partnership will include a two-year overhaul of campus dining facilities and the launch of new program features that include:
The deal connects SodexoMAGIC and the university for a five-year partnership that will yield a $51 million return on investment and includes a five-year option to renew.
“We are proud to partner with the Grambling State community and excited about investing in the students,” said Earvin "Magic" Johnson, NBA hall of famer and chairman of SodexoMAGIC. “My team is committed to providing excellent service that the Grambling students, staff, and community deserve so they can continue leading efforts to change the world in sports, technology, and in business.”
As a part of the five-year partnership, Grambling State’s campus will receive $6.7 million in facility updates and additions that include:
“As we make history with our new library and academic programs, we know that our student experience has to match the same levels of excellence,” said Martin Lemelle, the University's Chief Operating Officer. “We are excited about what this partnership means for students today and for the generations to come.”
Through a 12-month research effort, students, faculty, alumni, and staff collaborated in the vendor selection and program design for the future of Grambling State’s dining program. In addition to the formal RFP, the research included:
Key findings from the University’s research included:
