Union Renovations

Over this summer, the Smith-Brown Memorial Student Union food court underwent a number of renovations that have not only improved the aesthetic appeal, but also student pride in the university.
“The key and the whole purpose was the speed of service,” said Interim Food Service Director Randall Andre in reference to the changes made to the Popeye’s restaurant. Andre says that he and his team are anticipating a considerably quicker flow of service with the introduction of a second cash register. Previous semesters saw a line for the restaurant that extended into the seating area, causing a significant amount of congestion in walkways and a frustrating wait time. The additional register seeks to render these issues obsolete.
Louisiana Home Zone, campus renowned for its soul food, has also undergone changes, as more premium and whole meats have been added to its menu. However, local favorites such as red beans and rice and catfish, will still be served.
“We didn’t want to take the Louisiana out of Louisiana Home Zone, but we wanted to offer some fresh ideas.” said Andre.
An addition that has been in the works since the Spring 2015 semester is the Provisions on Demand (P.O.D.) store. With a corner store theme, it allows students to make a quick stop for snacks between classes, or to bring back to their dorms. P.O.D. is more of an upgrade than a replacement for the previous C-Store, as it serves the same types of items, just a better quality. One feature this shop has that its predecessor didn’t, however, is its cappuccino machine. A variety of coffee blends are available for selection.
Custom Wings & Asian Things, the product of a focus group study that combined flavor profiles and food variety, stands in place of the former pasta and pizzeria. The restaurant is a local concept that favors Panda Express in regards to its menu and service style. Like the name implies, the menu includes traditional Asian cuisine items such as lo mein and sesame chicken, but also has a wing station with a variety of sauces.
“It is my belief that the renovations to the union have created a type of buzz that new and returning students alike can appreciate,” said Sophomore Class President, Armond Duncan. “The renovations exemplify the era that we are in here at Southern.”
Duncan, a Business Management and Marketing major, is also an avid coffee lover.
“The cappuccino machines are what I most look forward to. Aside from that, the fact that I’m always on the go makes the snacking selection even better,” said Duncan.