In an email sent to all University of Memphis students on Oct. 23, President M. David Rudd announced the upcoming dates of a set of monthly luncheons called “Pizza with the Prez,†where students can come enjoy food and have an open conversation with the U of M president.
“Pizza with the Prez†is a response by Rudd and other U of M leadership to the open conversation about sexual assault and awareness that was held on Oct. 18. It is an additional opportunity for students to come discuss any concerns that may be on their minds.
University of Memphis President M. David Rudd addresses students during an open conversation in the UC Theatre Oct. 18
Rudd said the purpose of the luncheons is to reach out and hear from as many students as possible.
“I have students reach out daily to discuss a range of issues, including those that cut across Memphis, our country and the globe,†Rudd said. “It’s simply not possible to reach out to all of those students individually.â€
Rudd said he expects to gain a chance to become aware of and respond to the full range of issues that are important to students from the luncheons.
“The primary goal is to help us better understand the life demands and concerns of our students and respond effectively,†Rudd said.
As for the food provided, Rudd said he has asked to accommodate a full range of tastes, and the food at the luncheons will not always be pizza.
The luncheons, which will be free of charge for students, are first come first serve and are open to all U of M students, who will swipe their campus card to enter. They will be hosted in the University Center River Room from noon to 1:30 p.m. The first luncheon will take place Nov. 8.
More announced ‘Pizza with the Prez’ dates include Dec. 6, Jan. 23, Feb. 12, March 19 and April 17.
