Sodexo’s Global Chef Series Transforms LMU Dining into a Cultural Journey

Sodexo’s student dining program at Loyola Marymount University is transforming the campus dining experience into a cultural journey. Coast to Coast recently experienced this firsthand during the Global Chef Series event, which brought Chef Simon Mwansa from Zambia to introduce students to the vibrant and rich flavors of his homeland. The event, part of Sodexo’s commitment to diversity and global culinary exploration, gave LMU students a unique opportunity to experience authentic Zambian cuisine right on campus.

For the event, Chef Simon prepared a variety of traditional dishes that showcased the bold flavors and ingredients of Zambia. Students gathered at The Lair, LMU’s main dining hall, to watch Chef Simon in action and taste his creations. The response from students was overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing excitement over the chance to try something new and connect with a different culture through food.

The Global Chef Series is more than just a special event; it’s a core component of Sodexo’s mission to celebrate diversity and foster community. “In general, diversity, equity, and inclusion are always at the forefront of what we do every single day,” says Kyle Suerth, Resident District Manager for LMU Dining by Sodexo. “Being able to represent that as part of our program is extremely important.” By inviting chefs from around the world to share their culinary traditions, LMU Dining by Sodexo creates a bridge between cultures, helping students broaden their perspectives and appreciation for global diversity.

Chef Betsy Corrigan, Executive District Chef for LMU Dining by Sodexo, emphasizes that LMU Dining is more than just food service; it’s a home-away-from-home for students. “This is a student’s living room and dining room, so we want to make sure everything we do is different, exciting, healthy, trendy—all of the above,” she says. Events like the Global Chef Series allow LMU Dining to create a dynamic, welcoming environment where students can gather, connect and explore new cultures.

Through events like the Global Chef Series, Sodexo’s LMU Dining program is redefining what campus dining can be, turning it into a place for cultural exploration, culinary innovation and meaningful connection. The visit from Chef Simon Mwansa was just one of many ways that LMU Dining by Sodexo is opening students’ eyes—and taste buds—to the world, creating a truly global dining experience for students in the heart of Los Angeles. Watch below or on Coast to Coast with Heather Dawson!