University Dining celebrated NC State’s first Indigenous Peoples’ Day Monday with an Indigenous North America Dinner at Clark Dining Hall by cooking an authentic Native American feast. 

The dinner was a way to better understand the food of Native American culture. 

“I liked it because it’s the occasion to experience something I normally wouldn’t have a chance to,” said Adam Bowen, a freshman studying life science. “It’s a way to open to new experiences.” 

Jordyne Blaise, a member of the Office for Institutional and Diversity said she never had tried indigenous food before the dinner. 

“I wanted to try the food but also participate and get involved in Native American awareness,” Blaise said. 

Native American Student Affairs, a unit of Multicultural Students Affairs collaborated with University Dining to create the menu.  Lisa Eberhart, a registered dietitian for University Dining said it was important for this meal to be authentic for Indigenous Peoples’ Day.  

For this special dinner, Executive Catering Chef Mack Bell was asked to adapt the recipes to fit within a certain budget. Some dishes served at the feast – such as the vegan pumpkin soup, the cedar smoked salmon and the pork loin – were new additions to the recipe system at NC State’s dining halls.

“[It was] is a special day to showcase a special occasion,” said Jasmine Omorogbe, Assistant Director for Multicultural Student Affairs. “I’m glad to help promoting the Indigenous Peoples’ Day as a campus.”

Omorogbe ate the dinner at Clark Dining Hall before heading to the 6 p.m. 1490 Who? discussion in Talley Student Union.

Andrew Keel, a senior studying industrial design said he knew Clark would be packed because of the special event.

 “I came earlier because I knew the food would be better,” Keel said. 

Students’ reactions to the food proved the Indigenous Peoples’ Day dinner was a success. 

“The food tasted really fresh,” said Adam Krotchko, a junior studying chemical engineering. “It was probably one of the best meals I’ve ever had at NC State.” 

University Dining officials said NC State will most likely celebrate Indigenous Peoples’ Day again in 2016 by cooking another indigenous dinner.