Story by Alexis Schindler, Staff writer
Through its new vendor Sodexo, Murray State will be introducing Chick-fil-A and Einstein Bros. Bagels to
campus for fall 2019.
Chick-fil-A will be occupying a space in the Curris Center Stables and Einstein Bros. Bagels will be taking over the space Waterfield Cafe currently occupies in Waterfield Library.
“This announcement is exciting news for Murray State University,” Interim President, Bob Jackson said. “Chick-fil-A is a national brand that will bring a great deal of satisfaction to our campus community and to future students. Their presence will add tremendously to our existing dining options in order to best serve our University.”
Sodexo Universities was established as Murray State’s new food service provider in fall 2018.
Sodexo and Murray State’s leadership are working together to create a dining advisory board that will be student-led in pursuit of an increase in recruitment and retention rates.
Along with introducing new eateries, Sodexo is introducing a new concept to campus called Simple Servings. This concept gives students, especially those with common allergies, another food option.
Simple Servings will serve food options free of gluten, peanuts, tree nuts, shellfish, wheat, soy, milk products and eggs. The staff members will also be trained to avoid cross-contact to ensure the safety of students.
“Sodexo also has plans to work closely with the University’s farm and local business community to purchase local, seasonal and sustainably-grown products,” according to a press release sent to the media on Jan. 11.
In an effort to cut down the amount of food waste on campus and help those experiencing hunger, Sodexo will work with Murray State to explore ways to transform food not used in dining halls, grocery stores, restaurants and farmer markets.
“We are excited that we were able to respond quickly to the interests of Murray State University,” Stephen Gibson, director of business development, at Sodexo Universities, said. “Our plan is to continue to create a customized dining experience in partnership with the University and we hope the new Chick-fil-A will be welcoming news for the University and community.”
Rumors have been circulating campus for a while on Murray State acquiring a Chick-fil-A.
“I have heard rumors about a Chick-fil-A coming to campus for about a year,” Ashley Jones, a freshman commuter, said. “I am very excited that we will not only be getting one new dining option, but two.”
David Looney, executive director for auxiliary services, said meal swipes are not part of the Chick-fil-A or Einstein Bagels program at this time. Students can use all other forms of payments.
The Thoroughbred Room and Winslow Dining Hall will be operated by Sodexo.
Meal swipes will be accepted at Winslow and flex dollars will be accepted at the T-Room.