Barnard is beautiful we stan

Barnard’s SGA met once again! And, once again, Barnard Bearoness Dassi Karp was there to report on successes, mishaps, and hot takes. Read on to learn what went down.

Barnard’s current ten-year contract with Aramark, which runs Barnard’s dining services, is reaching its natural expiration. At last night’s meeting, Barnard’s SGA Rep Council had the opportunity to speak to a representative of JGL, the food-service consulting firm that Barnard has hired to run the bidding process for new providers. She began explaining the Request for Proposal (RFP) process that they are now beginning now to solicit a proposal to find a new (or re-negotiated) service. Using an outside firm allows for a fair and equal process, bringing industry expertise and minimizing bias. The RFP will be distributed to interested providers by mid-November, and the selection should happen in mid-March.

JGL wanted SGA Reps to share what they think should be included in the RFP. Reps did have a lot to say, but their comments tended to repeat and echo what had already been said. Many Reps emphasized that they want a provider that offered good, comprehensive inclusive options. “Students shouldn’t be made to feel disadvantaged because of their food restrictions,” said University Senator Kira Dennis. The need for accommodating Halal, Kosher, vegan, and vegetarian students were all emphasized, as well as providing for students with allergies and other health requirements. Rep for Food and Dining Services Yeliz Sezgin also suggested prioritizing a provider that makes good use of technology to communicate to students about menus, hours, and swipes. Also, “if there could be light in there, it would be really nice.” Other suggestions included treating staff well and being culturally sensitive.

For what is likely to be a re-hashing of this conversation but on a larger scale, join SGA for a Focus Group on Food and Dining tomorrow, October 24. Show up to let JGL know that you want inclusive, healthy options.

A fun reminder:
Rep for Arts and Culture Phanesia Pharel announced that her committee is looking for an alumna to paint a mural on the empty Hewitt wall. SGA has been asking for volunteers for this for more than a year now. Maybe they’ll find someone before the next ten-year contract is up?