STARKVILLE — Mississippi State University’s Dining Services is flourishing under the leadership of James Jankowski, recently recognized as the 2025 District Manager of the Year for Aramark’s South Region.

The resident district manager for Aramark Collegiate Hospitality at MSU has been instrumental in projects including the historic Perry Food Hall renovation and establishment of Azalea Dining in Azalea Hall, the university’s newest residence hall.

Honored at the Aramark regional College Hospitality Awards ceremony, Jankowski said while his name is on the award, it reflects the strong work ethic contributed by the entire MSU Dining team.

“It has my name on it, but it is really the work of the more than 300 people we have employed over the past seven years,” Jankowski said. “It reflects the long hours and hard work everyone’s been doing. This is a confirmation from our organization of the effort that our team has put in.”

An Aramark employee for 17 years, Jankowski has been at MSU since 2018. After an initial year focused on assessment and transition, he and his team moved full speed ahead to elevate the student dining experience.

Jankowski said he is always looking for ways to grow and improve MSU Dining Services.

“I’d really like students to feel that they could come and have a constructive conversation if something doesn’t meet their wants or needs. I want them to feel good about what they are eating and what’s being offered,” said Jankowski, who also recommends anyone pursuing a career in his field should begin by working in the dish room.

“Be humble. Take the opportunity to learn from the people who are teaching you, and then, as a leader, take time to listen to your team,” he said.