Together, Aramark and the Steve Short Culinary Team are co-creating a holistic hospitality ecosystem designed to support ASU’s academic, athletic and social life. The collaboration extends far beyond dining halls, introducing data-informed enhancements, streamlined concessions, new culinary concepts and guest-centered experiences across stadiums, arenas and event venues. These efforts aim to modernize how students, faculty, alumni and fans experience campus life, blending innovation with elevated service at every touchpoint.
At the heart of the partnership is a commitment to integration. Aramark brings national scale, operational infrastructure and analytics-driven insights, while SSCT contributes deep local roots and decades of service within the ASU community. This combination allows the university to offer both consistency and authenticity, from large-scale athletics concessions to intimate catered events. The expanded collaboration builds on SSCT’s longstanding campus presence and positions both organizations to deliver a unified hospitality model that spans all four ASU campuses.
Equally important is the focus on innovation and long-term impact. By leveraging data and modern hospitality strategies, the partnership is designed to evolve alongside student expectations and industry trends. Plans include faster service models, broader food variety and upgraded fan experiences in sports venues, all while reinforcing sustainability and community engagement.
By combining the strength of Aramark’s operational capabilities with the local authenticity and culinary innovation of SSCT, this partnership is redefining what’s possible in university hospitality. Together, they are raising the bar for service, sustainability and meaningful campus engagement, setting a new standard for ASU and the future of higher education hospitality
Photo courtesy of Steve Short Culinary Team
