Hogarth Dining Hall Refresh at Mississippi University for Women

Hogarth Dining Hall at Mississippi University for Women (MUW) is undergoing exciting changes, from dining options to décor.

“It was a tremendous feat to try and get this refresh project completed over the summer months, but I’m extremely pleased with the results,” said Area Marketing Manager Michael Fulkerson. “It feels like you’re walking into a brand-new dining hall. We couldn’t have gotten this done without the help of DIG Creative Solutions as well for all of their effort and support throughout the process.”

With a focus on the overall student experience, MUW Dining by Sodexo is leading the refresh including a revamp of the lobby, dining spaces, branding, signage, and promotion. The tray ceiling is accented in the campus’ official “W” blue, with a formal wall painted a neutral Magnolia. Gone is the boring beige, behind each station wall is now a cool gray. This clean, appealing, look was designed to be tastefully inviting.

Transparent panels designed with upscale graphics that reflect the dining tone are now wrapped around the double doors in the entryway for both entrance and exit.

The new dining logo is proudly featured on the cashier stand, at each station door entry door, the condiments bar, and the wall of the milk bar which seems to be a student-favorite spot for selfies.

A new action station is being introduced with relaunch of the Simple Servings platform, an award-winning, open-to-all, dining platform that offers fresh, flavorful meals prepared without the most common allergens, which account for 90% of all food allergy reactions. Dishes at Simple Servings are prepared without milk, eggs, wheat, soy, shellfish, peanuts, tree nuts, and gluten.

“We have had an amazing response from the students and faculty with our Simple Servings allergen free options," said MUW Executive Chef Matthew Molina. "Students have been asking questions to understand and experience these flavorful dishes.”

Chef Molina said these Mindful options showcase balanced meals through healthy ingredients.

“Grilled proteins, roasted and braised vegetables, gluten free pastas are a few of items our guests are able to experience here at the W’s Simple Servings station,” he said.

Under new leadership with General Manager Scott Hager, MUW Dining will now offer more opportunities for students to engage with chefs including demonstrations, Global Chef visits, and live action stations.

Cups, trays, utensils, and even staff uniforms are being upgraded to provide a more upscale dining experience.

Looking ahead, MUW Dining plans to refresh its approach to the “grab and go” concept, introduce new delivery options, and refresh seating areas in retail locations including Subway Lounge and Common Grounds which serves Starbucks.