September 27, 2025

University of South Florida Dining Services Transition to Chartwells

News Summary

The University of South Florida St. Petersburg has shifted its dining services to Chartwells Higher Education after a long partnership with Aramark. The new provider aims to improve food quality and variety through local collaborations and sustainability initiatives. However, student feedback reveals mixed reactions, with concerns over inconsistent food quality and limited options. Chartwells plans to address these issues while saving USF approximately $21 million annually. The full integration is expected by July 2025, with the promise of facility upgrades and a commitment to cater to diverse dietary needs.

Tampa, FL – As the fall semester begins at the University of South Florida (USF) St. Petersburg, students are experiencing a significant shift in dining services following the takeover by Chartwells Higher Education. This change comes after a 22-year partnership with Aramark, the previous dining services provider.

The transition to Chartwells is highlighted by new collaborations with local restaurants, renovations of dining hall stations, and implementation of sustainability initiatives aimed at enhancing food quality and variety across all campuses. Chartwells is part of Compass Group USA, recognized as the largest food provider in the United States. USF officials are optimistic that this shift will improve the dining experience for students.

Despite the promises made by Chartwells, student reactions have been mixed. Reports from students indicate dissatisfaction with inconsistent food quality and limited dining options available at the beginning of the semester. Some stations at The Nest, USF’s primary dining hall, closed unexpectedly, which has led to frustration. A noticeable decrease in nutritious options has also been reported when compared to the previous semester.

Freshmen Keesha’Lynn Jeanville and Beyonca Akers shared their experiences, noting that while there are offerings that exceed some other campuses they have visited, they still encounter cleanliness and quality issues. A recent social media survey conducted by The Crow’s Nest, a student publication, showed that while students appreciated the “more variety” under Chartwells, they also noted “some inconsistency in quality.” This discrepancy raises concerns, particularly for students with dietary restrictions and food allergies.

In response to ongoing concerns, Chartwells has committed to collaborating with students regularly to address dietary needs and also aims to create “a welcoming dining experience.” Furthermore, the new dining services agreement is expected to save USF approximately $21 million each year, amounting to around $320 million over a 15-year period.

Interestingly, while meal plan prices have remained unchanged from the previous year, students should be aware of potential increases in the future. The complete transition to Chartwells’ dining services is scheduled to be finalized by July 1, 2025. Though some new menu offerings have been introduced, the consistency of food quality continues to be a major concern among the student body.

It is worth noting that the privatization of certain jobs under the new agreement has left some current and former dining staff feeling anxious about job security. Nevertheless, Chartwells has plans to invest in facility upgrades at USF as part of their agreement, aiming to enhance the overall dining infrastructure.

Overall, while strategic efforts are being made to improve the dining services at USF through this significant partnership with Chartwells, students remain vigilant and express the need for consistent quality and variety in their food options to support their academic lives positively.

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Author: STAFF HERE PETERSBURG WRITER

ST PETERSBURG STAFF WRITER The ST PETERSBURG STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREStPetersburg.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in St Petersburg, Pinellas County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Grand Prix of St. Petersburg, Localtopia, and SHINE Mural Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the St. Petersburg Area Chamber of Commerce and St. Pete Downtown Partnership, plus leading businesses in finance, manufacturing, and healthcare that power the local economy such as Raymond James Financial, Jabil, and Bayfront Health St. Petersburg. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREJacksonville.com, HEREOrlando.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.

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