Recent requests have led to the introduction of kosher options at select locations.
Photo Credit: Carly Phelps
In response to a request from Hillel, a Jewish organization of the Student Government Association at Montclair State, Dining Services has added kosher menu items at several dining locations on campus.
This change was made to cater to the Jewish community, different ethnic or religious groups on campus and those who maintain and value nutritional diets for religious or health-related purposes.
Students can now purchase kosher food at Which Wich in Blanton Hall, the C-Store in the Student Center, the Student Center Cafeteria, the Rift Zone in the Center for Environmental and Life Sciences, the Venture Cafe in the Feliciano School of Business, the University Hall coffee shop and Sam’s Place.
According to Jim Robinson, Director of Dining Services, the addition of kosher food is part of a larger effort to offer healthier options to Montclair State students. “In support of the ‘eating healthier’ trend, our menus continue to replace traditional fried foods with more roasted or grilled meats, more fresh fish and more diverse veggies,” said Robinson.
Photo Credit: Carly Phelps
However, “it took two years before the request was granted, because we didn’t follow up with them,” said Avidan Rothman, President of Hillel.
When asked how she felt about kosher food on campus, Sara Judasin, a sophomore justice studies major, said that she was excited. “[It’s] about time. People from the Jewish community really appreciate the fact of having access to kosher food on campus. Now, the college can cater to everyone that seeks healthy food.”
“There was definitely a lot of excitement among the students,” said Rothman, a sophomore information technology major. “And it allows us to cater to the Jewish community and future members. In addition, it endorsed Montclair State as an accepting college for a new ethnic group.”
