The University of Memphis has selected a new food service company that would replace Aramark as the on-campus food distributer.
Raaj Kurapati, the chief financial officer of the UofM, along with UofM President M. David Rudd were involved in the decision process of choosing Chartwells Higher Ed among other food companies that applied. Rudd sent a press release addressing details on the changes being made.
“After careful consideration, the Dining Services RFP (Request for Proposal) Committee has selected Chartwells as the food services partner for the University of Memphis campuses,” Rudd said. “An intent to award letter has been sent to Chartwells, and the University has begun the process to draft an agreement that is acceptable to both parties based on the RFP and RFP Response.”
For the next 15 years, Chartwells will provide UofM students and faculty members a variety of food options. In the email, Rudd also explained the contract between both parties is still an ongoing process as of now.
James Welch, an engineer and technology major at the UofM, said he thinks it is important for the new food service company to pay attention to those choosing to eat more healthfully.
“This is actually the first time I’m just hearing about it,” Welch said. “I think it is very important considering like religions with strict food diets and some people with food allergies and vegetarian options.”
Some students on campus not only focus on the convenience of fast food but also want the food service company to give other options to people eating for their health. Wells encouraged UofM Dining Services to have a wide range of food choices for those needing a meal while working on their academics.
Nursing major Elizabeth Schmitt said the university needs to update to the on-campus food selection.
“I do think it is important for food companies to provide a variety of options for people that are vegetarian, due to the amount of students on campus,” Schmitt said.
