By Feeding the Future: How Texas Southern and Chartwells Make a Joyful Impact
Texas Southern University and its foodservice partner Tiger Dining, part of Chartwells Higher Education, recap their ‘SpiceFul’ event, a nationwide celebration of World Food Day that highlights bright, bold flavors and celebrates the power of food, sustainability, and culture.Held on October 13 at Texas Southern and across campuses nationwide on October 16, the event was part of Chartwells’ award-winning JoyFul campaign, designed to celebrate the power of food to unite people and promote wellness.
SpiceFul celebrates nutrient-rich and delicious spices and ingredients while educating students about World Food Day, a global collaboration in creating a peaceful, sustainable, prosperous, and food-secure future.
“Trying new flavor profiles and spices through meals on campus not only introduces students to new foods but brings them together through shared experiences,” said Darryl Scott, sous chef at Tiger Dining. “SpiceFul also gives Texas Southern students an opportunity to embrace the spirit of World Food Day and fosters a sense of social responsibility that extends beyond the dining hall.”
Throughout the event, students at Texas Southern were invited to try fresh, flavorful recipes, including Thai basil stir fry, birria tacos, and Moroccan spicy vegetables. SpiceFul’s interactive events included a Pop-Up Spice Bar featuring a variety of items for students to choose from, such as spicy Mexican hot chocolate and tres leches cake.
Students also participated in World Food Day by giving back to the community through Pound for Follow, where one pound of food was donated for every follow on the TSU Tiger Dining Instagram (@tsutigerdining). Over 30 pounds of fresh produce will be donated to Second Servings Houston on behalf of TSU HerScript, who collaborated with dining services for this give back initiative.
The event featured activities focused on tasting and learning about new spices, where they come from, and how better, healthier foods create a better future. Activities include Global Food Trivia and SpiceFul Photo Ops.
“SpiceFul not only allows us to celebrate the power of food and culture, but also addresses important issues like food insecurity by giving back to local communities,” said Eva Wojtalewski, CEO of Chartwells Higher Education. “It’s about showing students how fresh, healthy foods and flavors and a strong sense of community can make a difference.”
A JoyFul Impact
SpiceFul is one of many initiatives under Chartwells’ JoyFul campaign, aimed at creating joyful experiences in campus dining through connection, education, and giving.
To learn more about Chartwells Higher Education and the SpiceFul initiative, visit chartwellshighered.com.
