Sodexo, the leader in quality of life services, named Lynn a top-five university for dining satisfaction. Ranked among 332 colleges that participated in the fall 2015 Sodexo Consumer Loyalty Survey, Lynn scored 95 percent in satisfaction and 93 percent in ''likely to make a recommendation.''
Lynn partnered with Sodexo in 2013 to provide 24-hour on-campus dining and catering services, which continue to be enhanced. Lynn's main dining hall, the Elmore Dining Commons, features selections from around the world, including a Mezze bar with Moroccan, Egyptian, Middle Eastern, Spanish and African fare. Last year, Lynn Dining introduced farm-to-table options that use locally grown and organic products. Christine's, Lynn's fresh-market bistro, also debuted Karrot raw juice bar and a new line of French crepes and sushi offerings, while the Perper Coffee House offers gluten-free, all natural and organic snacks.
"We are pleased with the feedback we received through the survey, as it shows an appreciation for our efforts to create an elevated dining experience," said Brian Bowser, general manager of Lynn's Dining Services for Sodexo. "Through Lynn's holistic approach to dining, wellness and sustainability are two of the key factors that make our dining program special. We're always looking for ways to engage the Lynn community through activities like today's Culinary Battle Royale."
Sodexo hosted the Culinary Battle Royale for Lynn's employee appreciation luncheon. Faculty, staff and students were invited to taste and cast their vote on the best Latin dishes prepared by Lynn President Kevin M. Ross and Lynn Dining executive chef Omar Muiz or Sodexo area chef Bill Skiber and Bowser. Food selections included street tacos, pork belly arepas, tres leches cake, ceviche and more. Although a close call, Skiber and Bowser's team claimed victory in the challenge.
The Consumer Loyalty Survey was distributed to Sodexo partner schools to gauge customers' perceptions, wants and needs and to monitor performance. It asked diners to rate their experience based on:
- Menu selection and variety
- Facility cleanliness
- Dining atmosphere
- Service speed and server friendliness
- Customer loyalty and overall dining experience
Survey results will help determine future dining plans, retail products and services, as well as identify opportunities for improvement.
