‘SpiceFul’ to highlight culture and community at Lamar University

Lamar University and its dining partner, Chartwells Higher Education, will celebrate World Food Day on Thursday, Oct. 16, with "SpiceFul," a nationwide event highlighting how global flavors and cultures can foster community and social responsibility.

Part of Chartwells' award-winning JoyFul campaign, SpiceFul celebrates nutrient-rich spices and ingredients while educating students about World Food Day, a global call to create a sustainable, food-secure future.

The event will take place from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Brooks-Shivers Dining Hall, where students can enjoy fresh, flavorful recipes and interactive experiences centered around taste, culture, and giving back.

"Trying new flavor profiles and spices through meals on campus not only introduces students to new foods but brings them together through shared experiences," Bryce Sinclair, senior director of dining services at Lamar University said. "SpiceFul also gives Lamar University students an opportunity to embrace the spirit of World Food Day and fosters a sense of social responsibility that extends beyond the dining hall."

Throughout the event, students can sample recipes and take part in activities such as a pop-up spice bar, a "create your own spice blend" station, and a guessing game about global spices. Participants will also decorate cookies to be donated to a local nonprofit in honor of the day's theme of giving back.

"SpiceFul not only allows us to celebrate the power of food and culture but also addresses important issues like food insecurity by giving back to local communities," Eva Wojtalewski, CEO of Chartwells Higher Education said. "It's about showing students how fresh, healthy foods and a strong sense of community can make a difference."

SpiceFul is one of several JoyFul initiatives aimed at inspiring connection and wellness through food on campuses nationwide.

For more information on Chartwells and the SpiceFul event, visit chartwellshighered.com.