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A spirit that is not afraid

Dining's overhaul tested during the first week of classes

<p>Foy Dining on Monday, Aug. 20, 2018 in Auburn, Ala.&nbsp;</p>

Foy Dining on Monday, Aug. 20, 2018 in Auburn, Ala. 

Tiger Dining’s new contract with Aramark has allowed extensive renovations for dining options — both in dining plans and restaurant options — across campus. 

With the first week of classes completed, the new changes for Tiger Dining are in full swing.

Renovations have been underway all summer, and the completed projects now up and running are Wicked Eats and Salad Works in the Student Center, Panera in the library, the Steak ’n Shake, Starbucks and Crepe Myrtle food trucks, Village Dining Market, brand new Foy Dining hall and more.

Foy Dining is allocating specific focus to individuals with allergies, dietary restrictions and those striving for healthier alternatives, with varying stations that offer solutions to meet these accommodations.

Cameron Bernard, sophomore in pre-industrial engineering, said the Foy Dining facility was fairly priced for the options that were available, but that the lines to enter during prime lunch hours were long.

“On the side that I went in, there seemed to only be a few employees scanning cards and letting students in," Bernard said. "I think that was part of the hold up."

Caroline King, junior in marketing, said she was pleased with the visual appeal of the new dining hall in Foy, but the layout might not be entirely practical for the crowds.

“I think the renovations are super nice, and it makes it look more modern, but there wasn’t as much seating as I thought there would be,” King said.

According to Director of Campus Dining Glenn Loughridge, there were over 800 total visits to Foy Dining on the first day of classes. 

“By and large, today was a great first day. We’re aiming to be better tomorrow and the next day and the next,” Loughridge said.

Loughridge noted that the Panera was “wiped out” and the Crepe Myrtle, Amsterdam and Steak ’n Shake food trucks were especially successful as well.

However, there are some additional food trucks across campus that were not quite as booming as the centrally located ones above.

“I think the problem with the limited business of our other food trucks was that students just weren’t sure where they were,” Loughridge said. "Our main challenge now is making sure students know where all of the new dining options are located, including the food trucks. We want to incentivize students to patronize some places that are less crowded and spread the love, which will also limit long lines."

The Tiger Dining team said they are grateful for the support and feedback received thus far about all of the dining changes, and requests patience and understanding from the student body as they continue to work through possible bumps in the road.

“We make it our goal to do something every year to make it the best year yet for the students’ dining experience,” Loughridge said. "I love this place and want people to have the same experience I did when I was a student."

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