FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla. – Shark Dining, powered by Chartwells Higher Education, at Nova Southeastern University (NSU) is transforming campus dining with the introduction of Starship Technologies’ autonomous delivery robots. Following a successful soft launch in March, the university has begun a full rollout this fall as new students arrived on campus.
NSU was the first university in South Florida to introduce Starship’s innovative delivery technology earlier this year, setting the stage for a more connected, efficient, and engaging dining experience. The university has since expanded its Starship fleet to 17 autonomous robots, offering fast, reliable, and contactless food delivery across campus for students, faculty, and staff.
The launch of Starship robots at NSU is part of a broader effort by Shark Dining and NSU Business Services to innovate and enhance the campus dining experience.
How It Works: Orders are placed through the Grubhub app. After an order is submitted, a robot is dispatched to pick up the meal and navigate its way to the designated drop-off location using sophisticated AI and GPS. Customers can track their robot in real time and unlock it with the app once it arrives.
Key Features of Starship Robots:
- Autonomous Navigation: Advanced sensors and AI enable safe maneuvering around campus.
- Secure and Contactless Delivery: Meals remain locked inside the robot until unlocked by the recipient.
- Electric-Powered Operation: A more efficient and eco-friendly way to deliver meals.
- Optimized Convenience: Designed to save time and fit busy campus lifestyles.
“The launch of Starship robots is a game-changer for campus dining at NSU,” said Mike Alkurdi, resident district manager for Shark Dining. “We are always looking for ways to improve the dining experience, and this new delivery service allows us to bring meals directly to students in a way that is fast and reliable. This innovation aligns with our mission to provide high-quality, convenient, and forward-thinking dining solutions.”
Marc Crocquet, NSU’s vice president of business services, expressed pride in NSU’s new approach to serve its campus and enhance the dining experience.
“Innovation is what we do at NSU, so get ready Sharks, Starship is here,” he said.
For more information, visit dineoncampus.com/nsu/starship-delivery-robots.
Nova Southeastern University (NSU) is the largest private research university in Florida and a top employer in the state, with more than $5 billion in projected economic impact. NSU is classified as an R1 institution by the Carnegie Foundation among universities with the highest level of research activity. Visit www.nova.edu
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Irvin B. Harrell | Assistant Director of Public Relations
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