Building community through dining at SUNY campuses

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One shared mission: student success

For nearly four decades, Sodexo has partnered with SUNY campuses to elevate the student experience. Food is a top driver of student engagement, and campus dining is a powerful opportunity to create shared experiences that foster a sense of belonging and propel students to flourish.

 

From fostering innovation in campus kitchens to helping students build lifelong connections, we’re proud of the stories that show how dining can shape a thriving campus culture.

 

Whether you’re celebrating a long-standing partnership or exploring new possibilities, discover how Sodexo continues to drive meaningful impact — on campus and beyond.

Stories that feed connection, growth and impact

  • Culinary Experiences That Spark Connection

    Students at Binghamton University gathered for a fun, interactive cooking showdown, the culmination of a unique externship program bringing experiential learning to life.
    Culinary competitors smiling together with the Binghamton dining team.
    Read the blog

  • Global Internships Foster Growth and Exploration

    UAlbany and SUNY Oneonta students recently embarked on an international journey to gain invaluable real-world experience through Sodexo’s Global Internship Program.
    Group of interns gathered closely around a table, engaged in a lively discussion.
    Read the blog

  • From Campus Kitchens to Community Impact

    Sodexo is going beyond the dining hall to strengthen New York communities through impactful events and student-led initiatives — building connection and shared success.
    Sodexo employees posing together at the Dick’s Open Draw Party event.
    Read the blog

  • New Retail Dining Concepts Coming to Campuses

    Three new fast-casual dining concepts provide fresh flavors, exciting experiences and comforting foods designed for Gen Z’s appetite for authenticity and bold flavor.
    Snapshots of three dining concepts: Mediterra, Dilli Haat and Prime Time Pattys.
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  • Prioritizing Sustainability at SUNY Campuses

    Through student engagement and smart practices, SUNY and Sodexo are redefining sustainability — creating lasting impact both on campus and in the broader community.
    Two friends sit on a checkered blanket in a park, sharing a meal from reusable containers and smiling as they chat.
    Read the case study
  • An assortment of Yella’s sandwiches, chips and waffle fries arranged on branded paper.

    Supercharged Sales Growth at UAlbany 

    At the University at Albany, Fountain Grill was a station in desperate need of a refresh, and Yella’s was just what students were looking for. A brand with “food worth screaming about,” traffic skyrocketed 94.4% and items purchased grew by 70%. In just three weeks, Yella’s revenue jumped 128.3% YOY and is on pace to surpass last year’s sales record before Thanksgiving. Overall, branded innovation has driven a 285% revenue boost at UAlbany.
  • Two Binghamton dietitians smiling and holding up drinks at a campus event.

    Nourishing Minds at Binghamton

    Binghamton University's dietitians are championing student mental health. Registered Dietitians Julie Lee and Alexa Schmidt provide free, confidential support for students facing dining anxiety, sensory issues, and food allergies. They offer innovative solutions, like dining hall tours and special food pickups, to help students feel safe and supported. This initiative transforms mealtimes into an empowering experience for students. 
    Read more
  • Two Oneonta students shopping in Mills Marketplace, a campus convenience store.

    Mills Hall Renovation Satisfies Cravings

    SUNY Oneonta's Mills Hall has a delicious upgrade designed to save students time and make their day easier. The newly renovated Marketplace is a one-stop shop for student cravings, offering quick access to groceries and favorite foods. The new space features "Yella's" for subs, burgers, and milkshakes, as well as a full sushi concept with fresh rolls and poke bowls. 
    Visit Mills Marketplace

Understand today’s students

Download the free 2024-2025 Student Lifestyle Survey, which examines current perceptions regarding higher education and highlights opportunities to meet students’ evolving needs.

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