Meet Randy Lait, Senior Director of Hospitality Services

Portrait of Randy Lait
Randy Lait, Senior Director of Hospitality Services

What was your job while you were a student?
I’ve been working with Dining at NC State for many years. First I started off with watching the money that was picked up from different units around campus. Later, I became kind of like the maintenance guy’s helper. Next, I became a student manager with more administrative tasks. After graduation, my first job was running the Atrium. It was a great learning experience. I also was a food buyer for catering. I finally ended up as the director about 8 years ago.

What did you study in college?
I started in computer science but graduated with a degree in business and economics.

Why do you like your job?
There are so many reasons, though it can be challenging. I enjoy being around NC State students. I like seeing bright young people on a path to a happy and successful life. I also enjoy getting to eat at all of the dining locations. Overall, the places, sights, and people all give off positive energy.

If you were a Howling Cow Ice Cream flavor what flavor would you be and why?
I would be Campfire Delight. If you’re gonna be a food, you want to be delicious. It’s also lifesaving. It is my mother’s favorite type of ice cream. She can’t get enough of it. I remember she fell very ill and wouldn’t eat anything, so I brought her the ice cream and bit by bit she ate it. It saved my mother’s life!