Lamar University, located in Beaumont, Texas, is a vibrant and dynamic institution known for its diverse student body and comprehensive academic offerings.
With over 100 programs ranging from bachelor’s to doctoral degrees, Lamar University provides a rich educational experience that caters to a wide array of interests and career aspirations.
The university’s campus spans 292 acres and features modern facilities, including the newly renovated Setzer Student Center, which serves as the hub of student activities and dining options.
An essential aspect of student life at Lamar University is the variety of meal plans available to accommodate the diverse needs and preferences of its students.
Whether you are a freshman living on campus or a senior commuting from off-campus, Lamar’s meal plans are designed to provide flexibility, convenience, and a range of dining choices.
The university’s dining services offer everything from quick snacks at Starbucks to full meals at various on-campus restaurants, ensuring that students have access to nutritious and delicious food throughout the day.
Lamar University Meal Plans
Lamar University is committed to fostering a supportive and engaging campus environment.
With numerous student organizations, athletic events, and cultural activities, students have ample opportunities to connect with peers, develop leadership skills, and enhance their overall college experience.
The meal plans at Lamar University play a crucial role in this vibrant campus life, helping to create a sense of community and belonging among students.
Types of Meal Plans at Lamar University
Lamar University offers a variety of meal plans designed to cater to the diverse needs of its students.
These meal plans provide flexibility and convenience, ensuring that students have access to nutritious meals throughout their time on campus. Here are the main types of meal plans available:
1. Cardinal Unlimited Plan
The Cardinal Unlimited Plan is the most comprehensive meal plan offered at Lamar University. This plan allows students unlimited access to the Brooks-Shivers Dining Hall, an all-you-can-eat facility.
Students can visit the dining hall as many times as they want throughout the day, making it an ideal option for those who prefer to have multiple small meals or snacks.
2. Cardinal 14 Plan
The Cardinal 14 Plan provides students with 14 meals per week at the Brooks-Shivers Dining Hall.
This plan is suitable for students who may not need unlimited access but still want the convenience of having meals prepared for them. It offers a balanced approach, ensuring students have two meals per day on average.
3. Cardinal 10 Plan
The Cardinal 10 Plan offers 10 meals per week at the Brooks-Shivers Dining Hall.
This plan is perfect for students who may have a lighter meal schedule or who prefer to cook some of their meals. It provides flexibility while still ensuring that students have access to nutritious meals on campus.
4. Commuter Meal Plans
Lamar University also offers meal plans specifically designed for commuter students. These plans provide a set number of meals that can be used throughout the semester.
They are ideal for students who do not live on campus but still want the convenience of dining at the university.
The commuter meal plans include options like the Commuter 50 Meal Plan, which offers 50 meals per semester, and the Commuter 25 Meal Plan, which offers 25 meals per semester.
5. Dining Dollars
In addition to the traditional meal plans, Lamar University offers Dining Dollars.
These are flexible spending credits that can be used at various dining locations across campus, including Starbucks, Chick-fil-A, and other eateries. Dining Dollars provide students with the flexibility to grab a quick snack or meal at their convenience.
6. Block Plans
For students who prefer more flexibility, Lamar University offers Block Plans.
These plans provide a set number of meals that can be used at any time during the semester, rather than being limited to a weekly allotment.
This is ideal for students with irregular schedules or those who want more control over when they use their meals.
Overall, Lamar University’s meal plans are designed to accommodate the varying needs and lifestyles of its students, ensuring that everyone has access to healthy and convenient dining options.
Dining Locations at Lamar University
Lamar University offers a diverse array of dining options that cater to the tastes and schedules of its students, faculty, and staff.
At the heart of the campus dining experience is the Brooks-Shivers Dining Hall, an all-you-can-eat facility that serves up a variety of healthy and delicious meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
For those on the go, the Setzer Student Center is a hub of activity with popular fast-food outlets like Chick-fil-A and Panda Express, offering everything from chicken sandwiches and waffle fries to American Chinese cuisine.
Coffee enthusiasts can get their caffeine fix at Starbucks, located on the first floor of the Mary and John Gray Library, where they can enjoy specialty drinks, teas, and baked goods.
The Market at the Setzer Student Center and Cardinal Village provides a convenient stop for snacks, drinks, and other essentials, while Papa John’s in Cardinal Village serves up pizzas, wings, and more.
For a taste of local flavor, Tiny House BBQ at the Brooks-Shivers Dining Hall offers mouth-watering Texas barbecue.
Additionally, off-campus options like Subway and the locally-owned Kampus Korner are just a short walk away, ensuring that there’s something to satisfy every craving at Lamar University.
Meal Plans Prices at Lamar University (Table)
| Meal Plan | Price per Semester |
|---|---|
| Unlimited Meal Swipes at Brooks-Shivers Dining Hall + $125 Dining Dollars | $1,953 |
| 14 Weekly Meal Swipes at Brooks-Shivers Dining Hall + $125 Dining Dollars | $1,753 |
| 10 Weekly Meal Swipes at Brooks-Shivers Dining Hall + $125 Dining Dollars | $1,553 |
These meal plans are designed to provide flexibility and convenience for students living on campus, ensuring they have access to nutritious meals throughout the semester.
How to Enroll your Meal Plan at Lamar University
Enrolling in a meal plan at Lamar University is a straightforward process designed to ensure that students have convenient and affordable access to nutritious meals throughout their academic journey.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started:
Step 1: Understand the Requirement
If you are residing in university housing, you are required to purchase a meal plan.
This is part of the all-inclusive housing rate, which ensures that all students have access to balanced meals every day.
Step 2: Choose Your Meal Plan
Lamar University offers several meal plan options to cater to different needs and preferences.
These plans are designed to provide flexibility and convenience, allowing you to choose the one that best fits your lifestyle.
Detailed information about the available meal plans can be found on the university’s housing and residence life webpage.
Step 3: Access the Housing Portal
To enroll in a meal plan, you need to log in to the StarRez Housing Portal using your LEA username and password. These credentials are provided in your acceptance letter to Lamar University.
If you encounter any issues with logging in, you can contact the Help Desk at 409-880-2222 for assistance.
Step 4: Navigate to Meal Plan Enrollment
Once logged in, navigate to the section for meal plan enrollment. Here, you will find a list of available meal plans along with their respective costs and details.
Review the options carefully to select the one that best suits your needs.
Step 5: Make a Payment
After selecting your meal plan, you will be prompted to make a payment. A $150 down payment is required at the time of submission.
You can pay this amount online using a credit card, debit card, or electronic check.
This payment will be applied to the total cost of your meal plan.
Step 6: Confirm Your Enrollment
Once the payment is processed, confirm your enrollment in the meal plan. You will receive a confirmation email to your LU Email account.
It is important to activate your LU Email account as soon as possible, as it is the official channel for all communications from Lamar University.
Step 7: Enjoy Your Meals
With your meal plan enrolled, you can now enjoy a variety of dining options on campus.
From the all-you-can-eat Brooks-Shivers Dining Hall to quick bites at the Setzer Student Center, there are numerous eateries to choose from, ensuring you have access to delicious and healthy meals every day.
By following these steps, you can easily enroll in a meal plan at Lamar University and focus on your studies without worrying about your next meal.
If you have any questions or need further assistance, the Housing & Residence Life office is available to help.
Dietary Restrictions at Lamar University
At Lamar University, ensuring that all students have access to nutritious and safe meals is a top priority.
The university’s Dining Services team is well-equipped to accommodate a variety of dietary restrictions and preferences, making campus dining inclusive for everyone.
Accommodations for Dietary Needs
Lamar Dining Services is committed to meeting the dietary needs of all students.
The culinary staff is trained to handle various dietary restrictions, including food allergies, intolerances, and medically-related dietary restrictions.
They also cater to students who follow vegan or vegetarian diets.
Students with dietary concerns are encouraged to contact Dining Services directly through their website or by email at [email protected] to discuss their specific needs and find suitable meal options.
Dining Options on Campus
Lamar University offers a range of dining options to cater to different tastes and dietary requirements:
- Brooks-Shivers Dining Hall: This all-you-care-to-eat facility provides a variety of healthy meal options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The dining hall is designed to offer fresh and delicious meals that can cater to various dietary needs.
- The Market: Located at both Brooks-Shivers Dining Hall and the Setzer Student Center, The Market offers on-the-go products, snacks, and meals, including options from Tiny House BBQ and Papa John’s Pizza.
- Chick-fil-A: Situated in the Food Court at the Setzer Student Center, Chick-fil-A serves chicken sandwiches, waffle fries, nuggets, and more, with some options that can be tailored to dietary preferences.
- Panda Express: Also in the Setzer Student Center, Panda Express offers American Chinese food with bold flavors and healthy options.
- Starbucks: Located on the first floor of the Mary and John Gray Library, Starbucks provides specialty coffee drinks, teas, and baked goods, accommodating various dietary preferences.
Additional Support
For students needing further assistance, the Accessibility Resource Center at Lamar University offers support and advocacy to ensure access to campus services and activities.
This includes facilitating reasonable accommodations in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.
By providing diverse dining options and robust support for dietary restrictions, Lamar University ensures that all students can enjoy safe and nutritious meals on campus.
Special Dining Events at Lamar University
Lamar University offers a variety of special dining events that bring the campus community together, providing unique culinary experiences and opportunities for social interaction.
These events are designed to enhance the student experience and foster a sense of community among students, faculty, and alumni.
Dinner and Conversation is one of the standout events at Lamar University.
Held annually, this event brings together current students, alumni, and faculty for an evening of dining and meaningful conversation.
It provides students with the chance to gain real-world perspectives and network with professionals in a relaxed and informal setting.
This event not only offers a delicious meal but also serves as a platform for mentorship and professional development.
Another notable event is the ThankFul event, which is hosted to celebrate and express gratitude for the school community.
This event features a special meal that includes all the traditional favorites, creating a festive atmosphere where students and staff can come together to enjoy a hearty meal and reflect on the things they are thankful for.
The ThankFul event is a cherished tradition that highlights the importance of community and gratitude at Lamar University.
In addition to these special events, the Brooks-Shivers Dining Hall and the Setzer Student Center are central hubs for daily dining and occasional themed meals.
The Brooks-Shivers Dining Hall offers an all-you-can-eat dining experience with a variety of healthy and delicious options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
The Setzer Student Center features popular dining options such as Chick-fil-A and Panda Express, providing students with convenient access to their favorite fast-food meals.
The Cardinals Activities Board also plays a significant role in organizing various events that often include special dining experiences.
Events like Big Red Mania, Homecoming Week, Movie Nights, and Fusion Fest frequently feature food and refreshments, adding to the festive and engaging atmosphere of these activities.
These events are designed to appeal to the diverse interests of the student body and provide opportunities for socializing and relaxation.
Overall, the special dining events at Lamar University are an integral part of campus life, offering students, faculty, and alumni the chance to connect over shared meals and create lasting memories.
Whether it’s through formal dinners, festive celebrations, or casual gatherings, these events contribute to a vibrant and inclusive campus community.
FAQs
Q1: What are the different meal plans available at Lamar University?
A1: Lamar University offers several meal plans, including the Unlimited Meal Plan, Semester 90 Plan, Weekly 14 Plan, and Weekly 10 Plan. Each plan varies in the number of meal swipes and dining dollars provided.
Q2: What dining options are available on campus at Lamar University?
A2: On-campus dining options at Lamar University include Brooks-Shivers Dining Hall, Chick-fil-A, Panda Express, Starbucks, Papa John’s, and The Market at various locations such as the Setzer Student Center and Cardinal Village.
Q3: Are meal plans mandatory for all students living on campus at Lamar University?
A3: Yes, all resident students at Lamar University are required to purchase a meal plan. However, exemptions can be requested for medical reasons with proper documentation.
Q4: What are the costs associated with the Unlimited Meal Plan at Lamar University?
A4: The Unlimited Meal Plan at Lamar University costs $1,953 per semester and includes unlimited meal swipes at Brooks-Shivers Dining Hall plus $125 in dining dollars.
Q5: Can students with dietary restrictions find suitable meal options at Lamar University?
A5: Yes, Lamar University’s dining services accommodate various dietary restrictions. The culinary staff is trained to create specific meals based on students’ needs, and box lunches can be prepared for those with schedule conflicts.
Q6: What amenities are included in the Brooks-Shivers Dining Hall at Lamar University?
A6: Brooks-Shivers Dining Hall offers a variety of buffet-style options, including a carvery station, grill station, sandwich station, salad bar, international station, and an all-day cereal bar. It also features Tiny House BBQ and accommodates dietary restrictions.
Q7: How can students use their meal swipes or dining dollars at Lamar University?
A7: Students can use their meal swipes at the Brooks-Shivers Dining Hall and their dining dollars at various on-campus dining locations such as Chick-fil-A, Panda Express, and Starbucks. They can also use their CardinalOne or resident ID to swipe in friends for meals.
Final Words
Lamar University offers a variety of meal plans designed to meet the diverse needs of its students, faculty, and staff.
These meal plans provide a convenient and affordable way to enjoy healthy, balanced meals every day.
Resident students are required to purchase a meal plan, ensuring they have access to nutritious food options throughout the semester.
For those with dietary restrictions or special needs, Lamar Dining Services is equipped to accommodate various dietary requirements, offering personalized meal solutions.
The university’s dining facilities include the Brooks-Shivers Dining Hall, an all-you-can-eat venue with a wide range of delicious and healthy meal options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Additionally, students can enjoy popular eateries such as Chick-fil-A, Panda Express, Starbucks, and Papa John’s, all conveniently located on campus.
For quick snacks and on-the-go meals, the Market locations across campus provide a variety of products, including drinks, snacks, and dorm essentials.
Overall, Lamar University’s meal plans and dining options are designed to enhance the campus experience by providing easy access to quality food in comfortable and convenient locations.
Whether you are a resident student, commuter, or faculty member, the meal plans at Lamar University ensure that everyone can enjoy nutritious meals that support a healthy lifestyle.