Difference Maker of October: Michael Moore
Danielle Bates, Staff Writer
Michael Moore, the general manager of the North Greenville University Dining Hall, wishes to ensure students at NGU are getting the best meals possible.
He came to NGU three months ago and has been making positive changes in the caf ever since.
Moore said, “So far the experience here has been great. The students and staff here have been very helpful and welcoming.”
Some of the changes in food students have seen came from things that have been successful with other schools, such as the pasta bar and the baked potatoes.
Bearing in mind that the dining hall does not just feed students but also administration, faculty and guests, Moore said, “Things are improving and I intend to make them better.”
While students can take a survey on campusdining.com, Moore said, “Many of the changes come from feedback that comes to me directly from students. I really like to make myself available in person, or by email about any enhancements that guests would like to see in our program.”
In fact, Moore just held a dining styles committee meeting where students were invited to discuss what is right and what needs to be fixed.
Moore continued to say that administration wants to see students using the resident dining hall, and that seems to be happening based on figures alone.
According to the reports, Moore said, “We are feeding more students compared to last year. Last year, 33 percent of students ate meals at the caf and there has been a dramatic increase.”
While Moore is happy when students see something new and are excited about it, he mentioned that still only so much can be done based on what they are given to work with.
In addition to menu changes, this semester, the caf is open for longer periods of time, with unlimited meal swipes.
Moore said he wanted to give students more opportunity between classes and throughout the day to come for a meal or a snack. Students are very busy and do not always have the time to eat at set hours.
He has been in the culinary business for five years. Moore said, “I’ve always wanted to be in the food business, but my parents were not keen on the idea. So, I went to the University of Florida and majored in sociology.”
He later went to culinary school and decided to work in schools because the restaurant business is tough. “I wanted to work at a Christian school with people who have the same mindset.” Moore said.
While many positive changes have been made as per student request, Moore said he is still learning what works for this school and often consults with “Mrs. Tammy” and “Mrs. Jackie.”
“I want to make sure I am on the right track,” said Moore.