It’s possible to change with the times and be a model of consistency  so says the leadership team that runs Valley Services Inc., the Mississippi-based company that feeds students and faculty at Hinds’ cafeterias but also caters many of the college’s special events. Valley is this year’s winner of the Alumni Service Award.

It’s the first time a company, instead of an individual, has won the award.  “It’s an honor for Valley Services to receive this award,” CEO Jim Walt said. “We’re certainly humbled.”

The most recent event Valley Services catered was the Winter-Reed Partnership Award ceremony that honored Hinds President Dr. Clyde Muse. Valley Services was the title sponsor, also announcing a new Hinds scholarship to be given to a member of Hinds Connection.  

Founded in 1960 by the late Bill Hogg, the company is the sixth-largest contract food service company in the U.S. and the single-biggest contractor that specializes in meals for seniors. It has been the contract food products provider for Hinds since 1971. 

At Hinds, the company serves student and employee cafeterias at the Raymond and Utica campuses, as well as Eagle’s Nest Grille and Eagle Ridge Conference Center. The company also caters fundraisers and other functions at the college, such as being the title sponsor of the April Golf Fun Fest and Employee Appreciation Day, both annual events, providing breakfast monthly for President’s Cabinet meetings and donating food for many other Hinds events.

 “I depend on Valley quite a bit, and they have never let me down,” said Vice President for Advancement Jackie Granberry. “Whether it is a very dignified dinner for a few at the president’s home, a dinner for 500, a reception for dignitaries or anything in between, they always provide the best service and the best food.”