How UW-Madison transformed dining for equity and success

🍕 "We would hear from students that they were eating pizza seven days in a row..." This powerful moment from University of Wisconsin-Madison's Peter Testory reveals why campus dining isn't just about food—it's about equity, community, and student success. In our very first Thought Leaders in Foodservice - Overtime! episode, Testory shares with Sojo Alex the pivotal decision to transform their dining program from a declining balance system to all-you-care-to-eat. The catalyst? Students sitting at the same table, but experiencing vastly different dining realities based on their economic circumstances. The courage to completely reimagine an established meal plan system demonstrates what happens when institutions truly listen to student voices. Through careful pilot programs, focus groups, and strategic planning, UW-Madison proved that operational complexity shouldn't stand in the way of student well-being. Key takeaway: Sometimes the most impactful innovations come from addressing the simplest human needs—ensuring every student has access to nutritious, varied meals regardless of their budget. Ready for more insights from Peter and Sojo? 🎥 Watch the full video interview: https://lnkd.in/eYVyYQWa 📖 Read the corresponding blog post: https://lnkd.in/ehBmQkJR #CampusDining #StudentSuccess #HigherEducation #FoodService #ThoughtLeadership #UniversityDining #MealPlans #StudentExperience #FoodServiceInnovation #EnvisionStrategies #NACAS #NACUFS

Renee Pas

Editor at Zoomba Group

2w

Great details on the transformation in the blog and full video. Your adaptation from "buyer" to "seller" in terms of student labor is on point, particularly for a university that continues to see applications/enrollment increases.

Sojo Alex

Executive Principal | Foodservice Consultant

1w

Peter is the best! :)

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