Building the Leaders of Tomorrow by Helping Students Connect on Campus

College campuses play a crucial role in shaping future leaders by helping students find their path and preparing them for long-term success. In addition to rigorous academics that enable students to explore ideas, discover their interests, and consider new possibilities, today’s colleges must also provide the tools and environment for students to gain confidence, build resilience, and find fulfillment as engaged members of the community. Ensuring students feel seen, encouraged, and valued is just as important as providing thorough classroom instruction. When students know that they are respected and supported, they’re more likely to believe in their potential and confidently pursue their goals.

In my own journey to executive leadership, I was fortunate to receive immense support from those around me, whether it was family, friends, classmates, my college advisor, or other community members. I wouldn’t be who I am today without that, and I appreciate the role that community connection continues to play in my success.

For example, I’ve made countless personal and professional connections over the past 14 years living in New Orleans. New Orleans has a vibrant culture, a storied history, and a remarkable and enduring sense of community. Whether I’m socializing with members of my fraternity, Kappa Alpha Psi, or chatting with community leaders, local clients and partners, my neighbors, or members of my church, I’m proud to be part of a community that prioritizes supporting and caring for one another.

A Shining Example of Leadership in Action

Perhaps that’s why the latest chapter of President to President resonated so deeply with me. In “Belonging by Design: A President’s Blueprint for Leading with Legacy and Vision,” Grambling State University President Martin Lemelle, Jr., D.B.A., explores how campus leaders can make an indelible mark on students’ lives through small but meaningful actions. He highlights examples of how a people-centered leadership style, one that values presence and genuine connection, fosters an “ethos of excellence” on campus and helps students believe in themselves and achieve their goals. Dr. Lemelle reminds us of the important role that campuses can play in helping students recognize their capacity for greatness and fulfill their potential.

Helping students connect and find a sense of community is more important than ever, as higher education continues grappling with change. There has been ample media coverage regarding looming enrollment cliffs, wavering public support for higher education, and scrutiny about the value of a degree. However, many Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), such as Grambling State University, have avoided these issues in recent years, in part because of their ability to cultivate a strong sense of campus community that helps students feel like they belong.

HBCUs saw another enrollment jump of nearly 6% from 2023 to 2024, showing that the demand for HBCUs is accelerating quickly.

I’ve had the honor of working with Grambling State University, where SodexoMagic has provided dining services since 2019. I’m always impressed by how close-knit the campus community is, in part because of the commitment to fostering personal connections that is evident at all levels. From Dr. Lemelle greeting students by name to the cashier in the dining hall conversing with students about upcoming exams, everyone on campus contributes to students’ sense of belonging.

A Unique Opportunity to Foster Connection

Campus dining plays a critical role in helping students find that sense of connection and belonging. Our onsite teams have virtually endless opportunities to engage with students on a personal level each day, and that consistent interaction is integral to creating positive campus experiences for students. A recent survey through Sodexo’s Quad Squad revealed just how much students appreciate frequent interactions that make the dining hall feel like home.

• 85% of students interact with dining staff at least weekly
• More than half of students interact with dining staff daily
• 83% rate their interactions as positive, with almost no negative sentiment
• 84% of students say the dining program contributes at least moderately to their sense of belonging, with more than half rating it “very” or “extremely” important

Because the work that our onsite employees do each day directly contributes to students’ ability to form authentic connections on campus, our people truly are our most valuable asset. That’s why putting people first should be the foundation of any leadership philosophy. As a leader, I strive to focus on listening, learning, and acting with intention so I can help my teams build a culture where every person feels valued, supported, and proud of the work they do. Much like Dr. Lemelle explains, I believe there is incredible value in always welcoming open conversations, honest questions, and meaningful engagement.

Grambling State University serves as a model for student engagement and offers a perfect example of how building a connected, vibrant campus community ensures every student feels as though they belong. I’m excited to see what the future holds for the university and our onsite dining team there, who will continue playing an important role in empowering students to thrive.