I stand before you today on behalf of a group of students and faculty who feel it’s time to address an issue that’s been affecting our daily lives here at TU in partnership with Perkins—our dining experience. This isn’t just about food quality; this is about the environment, the culture, and, most importantly, the respect we deserve as young adults.

For too long now, Perkins has been under fire for not providing the essential resources needed to deliver high-quality meals. Many of us, including faculty members, are aware of the three-week menu cycle that limits flexibility and creativity in the kitchen. We’re tired of the same repetitive meals—we want more. We want options that reflect the diversity and energy of this community, and we believe it’s time for a change.

As students, we should expect more than just basic cafeteria service. We deserve the opportunity to serve ourselves in an environment that’s engaging, inclusive, and—above all—fun. This is a place where we gather, not just to eat, but to build connections and make memories.

Under Monty’s leadership, our dining experience was transformed. He understood the importance of respect and brought a genuine passion for making the dining hall more than just a place to grab a meal. He turned it into an experience—something we hadn’t seen before. Pumpkin carving, Halloween parties, musical chairs, dance-offs, and even informational feedback sessions like Perkins Bingo—Monty brought life into that cafeteria. He made it fun, and that’s something we can’t forget.

Today, we are asking all students who had a positive experience with Monty to join us in signing this petition to bring him back. We’re not asking the workers to bear the brunt of this change—we’re asking the administration to step up and take responsibility. It’s time for transparency, accountability, and for us to have a seat at the table when it comes to decisions that affect our daily lives.

It’s easy to blame the people in the trenches—the workers who show up and are held accountable to deliver expectations with kindness and a desire for change—but we need to look deeper. Was Monty really to blame for the food shortages or quality concerns? We need to ask the cooks, the shipping staff, and those who handle the supplies. Let’s find out what’s really going on behind the scenes.

The truth is, we deserve better. We deserve a dining experience that’s more than just food, although food is the main and prime component—it’s about community, respect, and creating an environment that energizes us with diverse food offering.

So today, we ask for your support. We ask for a change. Let’s bring back the spirit of creativity, fun, and respect that Monty brought to this space. Together, we can make it happen.

Thank you.