Eastern Kentucky University (EKU) has been recognized for its commitment to student success and basic needs accessibility, receiving a Transformational Leadership Award at the Council on Postsecondary Education’s (CPE) Student Success Summit in February. EKU was specifically honored for its innovative approach to addressing student food insecurity. The university became the first in Kentucky to integrate Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) access into the Aramark system, allowing students to use SNAP benefits at campus grocery stores.
“By accepting SNAP benefits on campus, we are breaking down barriers to academic achievement and reinforcing our dedication to student success,” said EKU President David McFaddin. “This award reflects our ongoing efforts to create an environment where every student has the opportunity to reach their full potential.”
Launched in collaboration with Aramark, EKU’s food service provider, students can now use SNAP benefits at the Stratton Provisions on Demand (P.O.D.) market, located in the Stratton Building. The Stratton P.O.D. offers a variety of staple food items, including deli meats, pasta, cereal, milk, fruits and protein bars.
The initiative helps to address a nationwide issue, as approximately one in four college students experiences food insecurity, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. By integrating SNAP into campus dining services, EKU aims to alleviate food insecurity among students. This effort is part of a broader commitment to student well-being, complementing existing resources like the Colonel’s Cupboard, EKU’s food pantry, which has been providing food, toiletry items and clothing to students in need for over a decade.
“Receiving recognition from CPE highlights an initiative at EKU that can serve as a model for other institutions across the Commonwealth,” said Dr. Lara Vance, EKU dean of students. “The foundation of Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs begins with physiological necessities, including food. Students cannot be expected to thrive academically if they are struggling with hunger and undernutrition. At EKU, we are committed to viewing student success holistically, and food security is a crucial component of that.”
At the CPE’s Student Success Summit, nearly 500 postsecondary practitioners gathered at the University of Kentucky’s Gatton Student Center to celebrate Kentucky institutions leading higher education improvement efforts.
Accepting the award on behalf of EKU were Vance, Associate Professor of Anthropology Dr. Amanda Green and Aramark Nutrition Associate Manager Jillian Cupp. Additionally, key contributors to the program include Nathan Hall of Aramark, Steve Caudill of EKU Auxiliary Services and Dr. Abbigail Hickey of EKU’s Department of Food and Nutrition. The idea to make SNAP benefits available on campus came from discussions in the Food Security Coalition, which meets every semester to discuss updates and changes to food security.
By A’Mya Kendrick
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