Sodexo’s Partnership with ETBU Empowers Student Voices and Campus Connection

East Texas Baptist University (ETBU) and Sodexo hosted a dining event that celebrated family traditions and cultural pride through student-submitted recipes inspired by Hispanic cuisine.

Three students — Malaya Lewis, Paige Newton, and Luis Correa — were selected to have their favorite family dishes featured in the ETBU Dining Hall. The recipes, shared with Sodexo’s culinary team, were brought to life as part of a partnership between ETBU Dining and the Student Life department.

Lewis, a sophomore with Puerto Rican and African American roots, shared her grandmother’s Puerto Rican yellow rice and empanadillas. “This recipe means so much to me because it makes me think of home,” Lewis said. “I wanted to bring home to the Hill.”

Newton, who has a passion for cooking, submitted Carne Asada — one of her favorite meals to prepare and share with family. “Cooking is something that brings me happiness,” she said. “I’m excited that my favorite dish could be shared with my peers through this event.”

Correa, a junior majoring in Criminal Justice with a minor in Youth Discipleship, contributed his mother’s Chile Rellenos recipe. “My mom would always cook it for me after school or football practice,” he said. “It meant the world to me.”

The event highlighted how ETBU and Sodexo are creating meaningful experiences that reflect student voices and promote a sense of belonging.

“ETBU is deeply grateful for Sodexo and their commitment to listening to our students and responding to their feedback,” said Dr. Daniele Brock, Dean of Student Engagement. “Their willingness to partner with our Student Government Association has strengthened our ability to hear student voices and better serve our campus community.”

Promoted by ETBU’s Student Engagement Department, led by Director of Student Life Laura Corsey, the event drew students, faculty, and staff to enjoy dishes that brought a sense of home and connection to campus life.

ETBU and Sodexo continue to work together to create dining experiences that reflect the stories, traditions, and voices of their students.