Jackson State University (JSU) is diversifying its food options for its campus community through SodexoMagic. The joint venture between Magic Johnson Enterprises and Sodexo, Inc., will launch AC Barbeque during a ribbon cutting ceremony at 10:45 a.m. on Monday, Feb. 12, at JSU, Mississippi’s only high research activity historically black urban university.
AC Barbeque is a new brand offering created by noted comedians, friends, and grilling enthusiasts Anthony Anderson and Cedric the Entertainer. This collaboration is powered by Virtual Dining Concepts, the industry leader in the virtual dining space.
“HBCUs, like JSU, represent a long tradition of history and a celebration of culture and family. AC Barbeque’s mission aligns with the experience of belonging we envision for our students, faculty, and staff. Through our partnership with SodexoMagic, we can continuously enhance our dining operations and provide unforgettable dining experiences and concepts for the Jackson State community,” said Kamesha Hill, director of Auxiliary Enterprises at JSU.
Virtual Dining Concepts is the creator of virtual restaurant brands poised to expand the revenue of independent kitchens. The delivery-only infrastructure, exclusive online platform (with third-party delivery interface), and marketing strategy services guide existing restaurant operators from set-up to inception.
“We are very excited to team up with Virtual Dining Concepts and SodexoMagic to introduce our first AC Barbeque restaurant at the historic Jackson State University campus,” said Cedric The Entertainer. “Our food is rooted in culture and fueled by community, and we couldn’t be more proud to bring that to Jackson State. See y’all for a bite soon! J.S.U…Thee I Love!”
Menu features include sandwiches and burritos stuffed with pulled pork and beef brisket, along with chicken tenders, all topped with AC Barbeque signature sauces and spices. Students will be able to order these menu items in addition to those from other Virtual Dining Concepts brands on campus.
“Many of our family traditions are centered around family gatherings over food like cookouts and barbecues. By expanding the options to the JSU community and SodexoMagic bringing in a black-owned concept, we are taking steps toward an inclusive campus dining experience that reflects the very students who walk our campus,” said Dylan Melton, a JSU sophomore who sits on the JSU Tiger Culinary Board.
Guests will have the opportunity to sample AC Barbeque during the ribbon-cutting ceremony, which will also include giveaways and a good time.
SodexoMagic’s Chairman, Earvin “Magic” Johnson, stated, “As the majority owner of SodexoMagic, I am proud of our strong relationship with Jackson State and am excited to bring AC Barbeque, owned by my long-time friends Anthony and Cedric, to Jackson State University. Thank you, Jackson State, for allowing us to serve your campus over the last 10 years. Our hope is to build upon our partnership and provide even more variety in food services. We look forward to launching AC Barbeque at other partner campuses over the next year.”
