University Dining Services Roundtable
Introducing the UDS Roundtable
The UDS Roundtable is made up of four key components that highlight our dedication to progressive dining service.
- culinary connections: savor the variety of world flavors, explore cultural food traditions and discover food history
- nutrition: focus on healthy food preparation, the science of nutrition, balanced options and whole body wellness
- community: connect to local foods, community involvement and the 'farm to plate' movement
- verdant earth: commit to long-term sustainability initiatives and use of fair trade and organics
Vision Statement
University Dining Services will be the most successful and respected student managed dining program in North America.
Guiding Principles
- Create a collaborative work environment that educates and engages our student employees.
- Integrate sustainability initiatives that support the environmental mission of the University.
- Prepare enticing food and menus that feed our culinary senses.
- Share our knowledge of food trends and nutrition.
- Commit to excellence, integrity, quality and value.
- Cultivate community and build lasting relationships.
Why We Must Take Action
Sustainability embodies the premise that we must make mindful decisions about the quality of life for ourselves and future generations. UDS has the ethical and moral obligation to carefully assess all of our decisions that connect to issues of economic viability, social justice and environmental preservation. We recognize that the benefits to all of our local and global neighbors are substantial and we want to be part of creating a healthier world.
Strategies for the Future
- Focus on increased utilization of local foods (produced within 100 miles of Stevens Point) and regional foods (produced within 250 miles of Stevens Point).
- Work closely with Central Rivers Farmshed Group to bring farmers to campus for Farm to Plate educational events.
- Develop a long-term strategy for using local and organic products in residential, catering, and retail areas.
- Collaborate with student organizations on a grass roots level to further strengthen the connection to the community.
- Support businesses so they can provide local jobs and economic development.
- Expand the annual Bike to Barn to Plate charity ride to support local CSA farmers and low income families.