Aramark Collegiate Hospitality’s Bison Hospitality program at Harding University is partnering with the university’s International Studies Department and Study Abroad program to launch a dynamic monthly series that celebrates global cultures and cuisines.
Each event features regionally inspired menus and educational displays that spotlight destinations where Harding students study abroad, inviting the campus community to explore international flavors and traditions.
“This initiative is a meaningful way to connect students with international experiences—whether they’re planning to study abroad or simply curious about the world and the food served around it,” said Jason Warrington, Aramark Collegiate Hospitality Marketing Manager, Bison Hospitality. “We’re excited to continue this partnership and explore new recipes that reflect the richness of global cultures.”
Countries featured each month are selected in collaboration with Harding University’s International Studies Department, based on current Study Abroad destinations and cultural relevance. Bison Hospitality Residential Chef Lori Alpers leads the culinary planning for each event, drawing from Aramark’s extensive recipe system and customizing dishes to reflect authentic regional flavors. When a menu is proposed, it is reviewed by the Study Abroad program to ensure cultural alignment and consistency.
The fall semester began with a celebration of the Harding University Florence (HUF) program, featuring a fresh Italian menu crafted by Chef Alpers. Students enjoyed cheese tortellini with marinara, garlic herb breadsticks, and almond biscotti, garnished with basil harvested from the campus community garden.
Harding University sends approximately 400 students abroad annually and is home to over 270 international students from 66 countries. These events serve as a platform to amplify cultural voices and foster cross-cultural understanding within the campus community.
"On a university campus, every bite of international food is a passport to a new culture. No plane ticket required,” said Jack Shock, Harding University Interim Assistant Vice President for University Communications and Marketing.
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Throughout the academic year, Bison Hospitality will host monthly events that spotlight different regions tied to Harding’s Study Abroad destinations. In October, there was a British-themed menu inspired by the HUE (Harding University European) program, featuring traditional fish and chips. This month in November, students will have a chance to explore flavors from Australia and Asia with dishes like shrimp Pad Thai.
February will offer two cultural experiences: one centered on Greek cuisine and another celebrating Chinese New Year. In March, students will enjoy Zambian dishes, followed by a Latin American and Peruvian culinary showcase in April. Each event is paired with educational tabling and interactive student-led activities to deepen cultural engagement.
“Student response has been overwhelmingly positive. Many returned for seconds, and the lively interaction between the HUF team and students during the first Italian-themed meal highlighted a strong appetite for global flavors and international engagement”, said Warrington about the first event.
This initiative is part of a broader effort by Aramark Collegiate Hospitality to engage students nationwide through culturally immersive dining experiences. Recent insights from Aramark Collegiate Hospitality surveys reveal 67% of Gen Z students prefer authentic, international flavors.
