McNeese Dining by Sodexo Expands Services and Student Engagement Following Major Renovation

Lake Charles, Louisiana — Following the completion of an innovative renovation and the launch of Sodexo’s One & All dining brand in Spring 2026, McNeese State University Dining is continuing to enhance the campus dining experience with new services, concepts, and opportunities for student involvement.

The latest additions reflect McNeese Dining’s commitment to creating a program shaped around the needs of today’s students. From expanded ordering options and nutritional guidance to culinary education and new ways for students to provide feedback, the dining experience continues to evolve.

One of the most significant additions is a campus dietitian who will serve as a resource for students navigating food allergies, dietary restrictions, health goals, and general nutrition questions. The dietitian will help students make informed choices while connecting them with dining options suited to their individual needs.

Students will also have greater flexibility through Everyday mobile ordering. The service will make it easier to browse available menu items, place an order, and pick it up around class schedules and other campus commitments.

McNeese Dining introduced two new dining concepts: Serrano and Bird N Brine. These additions expand the range of choices available on campus and give students fresh options as part of their daily dining routines.

“What I love about Serrano’s is that you can build your own dish,” said Meghan Olinger, Dean of Students. “I like being able to make it exactly the way I want, with so many options to choose from. Whether it’s a bowl or a burrito, I can make it my own.”

Sophomore Benjamin Bellon said, “The fried chicken at Bird N Brine and the bacon and cheese burritos at Serrano’s are amazing!” Chad Lewis, also a sophomore, said, “I love both places. Ten out of ten. Period!”

Student participation is playing a central role in the program’s continued growth. A new Marketing Street Team, comprised of student interns, will help strengthen connections between McNeese Dining and the campus community. Participating students will gain hands-on experience in foodservice marketing while helping promote events, gather input and keep their peers informed about dining programs and services.

The new Student Culinary Council will provide another direct link between students and the dining team. Council members will have opportunities to share feedback, discuss ideas, and contribute their perspectives as McNeese Dining considers future menus, events, and initiatives.

Culinary education will soon become part of the experience through Kitchen Academy classes. Working directly with Executive Chef Jason LeBouef, these upcoming sessions will give students opportunities to develop practical kitchen skills, learn about food preparation, and become more comfortable creating meals of their own.

A new dining text service will make communication quicker and more convenient. Students will be able to use the texting feature to connect with McNeese Dining, ask questions and provide timely feedback about their experiences.

The dining program is also extending the value of campus meal plans beyond traditional dining locations. Dining dollars are now accepted at athletic concessions, allowing students to use their available funds while attending games and other campus events.

Together, these enhancements build upon the investment made through the Spring 2026 renovation and the introduction of One & All. With greater convenience, expanded resources and more opportunities for student participation, McNeese Dining is creating a campus dining program that listens, adapts, and continues to move forward with its students.

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