Chicken and Waffles with President Brian Mcgee is already back at Quincy University. It brings students and staff together over an unexpected yet delightful combination of flavors. The event showcases chicken and waffles, merging the sweet with the savory and combining crispy chicken with soft fresh made waffles. While this pairing might seem unusual at first, its unique contrast of textures and flavors has made it a beloved dish for many, providing attendees with a memorable culinary experience at the very least.

The event also serves as a social gathering with McGee, actively engage with students to create a welcoming atmosphere. McGee, who worked in the south for several years, was inspired to bring his favorite Southern dish to the Midwest campus, and with the support of other staff members and cafe workers, the event has grown into a cherished tradition. 

Students enjoy seeing the university president being active around campus, something that is not common at other institutions. 

“It’s cool to see President Mcgee around campus so often, that is something you do not see at other schools,” Charlie Allison said. 

This year however there was some competition for the classic combo August 29th in the Cafe. The extremely popular Cafe orange chicken was being served for lunch the same day Mcgee was plating up his classic for students. Majority of the students decided to go after the chicken and noodles rather than the abnormal combination of protein and carbohydrates Mcgee has to serve up.

“I did not get the Chicken and Waffles because I heard the orange chicken is really good,” Nick Sawyer, freshman, said. 

While the orange chicken is a delicious meal, Mcgee would say it is foolish to eat anything else besides his delicacy when given the opportunity. 

“Some say steak and lobster or something all fancy are the peak of culinary existence but they are all wrong, there is no reason to have a feast of anything but chicken and waffles,” Mcgee said.

Specifically his “McGee Special” where he used all the toppings available, including, a berry medley, whipped cream, butter, chocolate chips, some oreo crumbles all dusted with a layer of powdered sugar. Maybe not the most nutritious meal to fuel students but it is certainly delicious.

Chicken and waffles, a Southern classic that originated in 1930s Harlem, has remained a popular dish throughout the decades, gaining fans across the nation. Quincy University first hosted its own chicken and waffles event in 2019. The event was a tremendous success and quickly became one of the most anticipated events on campus. Each year, it continues to draw large crowds of students eager to enjoy this unique meal and the opportunity to interact with the President of their school.