The University of Rhode Island student senate met Wednesday to discuss changes to dining services on campus and recognize four student organizations.
URI Director of Dining Services Pierre St. Germain came to the senate chambers to gather student feedback on the changes made to dining offerings this fall. URI switched from Coca-Cola products to Pepsi, and Just Baked food kiosks have been installed in multiple locations.
St. Germain collected feedback from student senators on these changes and the current state of dining affairs, seeking ideas for both marketing and sustenance.
“Much to the regret of my staff, I like to make changes sometimes,” St. Germain said.
The upcoming dorm expansion will bring new potential dining options as well, according to St. Germain.
While he would like to explore more options like Brookside Bistro, that decision lies with Housing and Residential Life, St. Germain said.
The new beds will likely bring the need for a third dining hall and changes to the Corner Store, according to St. Germain. The rise in apartment-style housing creates a higher demand for grocery offerings in the Corner Store.
“We need to bring that aspect of dining services to campus,” St. Germaine said.
Sen. Meilin Reyes, chair of the Cultural Affairs Committee, introduced a bill to offer a mental health certification course up for voting next week. The course would potentially fulfill general education credits, according to Reyes.
Two new student organizations earned recognition, the Photography Club and Surf Club. The Badminton Club was recognized and the Student Alliance for the Welfare of Africa received a name change.
“The name change won’t drain us financially at all, that’s free,” Director of the Treasury Nick Cronan said.
SAWA will now be recognized as the African Student Organization.
The next student senate meeting will take place on Oct. 9 at 6:30 p.m. in Memorial Union Room 300.