September 5, 2018
TSAILE, Ariz. — A new dining alternative welcomed Diné College students and the surrounding community at the start of the 2018 school year. The Anchorage, Alaska-based NANA Management Services (NMS) now offers breakfast, lunch and dinner at the main campus after winning the food services contract earlier this year.
NMS Chefs Brad Harris, Arizona born and raised, and Matt Little Dog developed menus that include indigenous foods to Navajo culture and planned creative dishes around mutton, blue corn and frybread. The two chefs are also striving to introduce fresh, locally sourced options and are working closely with the school to incorporate the Diné language into menus.
“As a company with Alaska Native roots and values, we recognize the importance of providing traditional, indigenous foods to our tribal clients,” Harris said. “NMS is committed to doing so. Every day, we see how food plays an integral role in celebrating and promoting culture, heritage and traditional ways of life.”
The first day of food service began Aug. 13. NMS also offers the Mindful program, which features fresh, healthy foods in recommended proportions and utilizes cooking techniques that capture flavor and retain nutrients without adding excessive fat, sugar or salt. Nutritional information will be displayed at points of service within dining rooms, on countertop signage and on packages. Other dining options on campus include a snack bar and to-go items, such as sandwiches, salads and parfaits, in the bookstore.
“We are thrilled to have NMS at Diné College this year, and they certainly share in our excitement,” George Joe, marketing and communications director at Diné College, said. “I’m convinced that the breadth of their experience and our shared values will combine to offer a new, fun and enjoyable dining experience for students and campus visitors alike.”
Online menus are available weekly at dinecollege.edu and broadcast on KXWR radio. NMS also offers catering services, which can be requested by contacting Liz Tso at (928) 724-6747.
About NMS
NMS is a limited liability company, owned by NANA Development Corporation – an Alaska Native Corporation subsidiary – and Sodexo. NMS clients include the oil and gas industry; state and local governments; schools and universities; hospitals and clinics; senior living centers; manufacturing plants; and the telecommunications and transportation industries.
CONTACT US
Marie R. Etsitty Nez
Vice President of External Affairs
marienez@dinecollege.edu
928-724-6985
George Joe, M.A., M.Ed, Director Of Marketing and Communications
grjoe@dinecollege.edu
928-724-6695
Bernie Dotson, Public Relations Officer
bdotson@dinecollege.edu
928-724-6697
