Chartwells Monthly | May 2017
CONGRATULATIONS
CLASS OF
Best wishes for your continued success!
communication / executive message
table of letter from the ceo
contents:
2 Letter From the CEO
Congrats to the Class of 2017! At Chartwells we are honored to be a part of every student’s academic experience and to contribute to a lifelong journey of learning and growing. Over the past few weeks it has been my pleasure to see so many of our guests walk down the commencement stage, accept their diploma and move into the next chapter of their lives. On behalf of Chartwells I would like to extend my best wishes to all the graduates as they set out to pursue their dreams and aspirations.
Lisa McEuen
President & CEO, Chartwells Higher Education Dining Services
As the summer period approaches, I want to take this opportunity to thank each and every one of our associates for their dedication and commitment to the Chartwells community. In this month’s edition of Chartwells Monthly we take a look at the people who have made and continue to make lasting impressions on our guests, and celebrate all the unique ways in which they bring joy to the campuses they serve.
I look forward to welcoming our guests, associates and clients back in the fall. In the meantime I wish you all a happy, healthy and safe summer.
Lisa McEuen President & CEO Chartwells Higher Education Dining Services
I don’t do it for this. I do it for them. — Becca Prince, cashier at Brough Dining Hall, University of Arkansas, pictured with end-of-year gifts from appreciative students.
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CHARTWELLSMONTHLY.COM | MAY 2017
3 Congratulations, Graduates
4 Moms and Dads of Chartwells
9 Student Success Interns
10 Contact Chartwells
congratulations to graduates / people
Congratulations, Grads! Buffalo State
Pace University
Buffalo State
University of Texas at Dallas
Wagner College students have nothing but praise for mom-away-from home, Faiza Allen (pictured above) Aliyya Noor Faiza was the best thing that ever happened to the dining services. And to Wagner College in general.
University of Miami
Rebecca Kelly Aww we love Faiza! She is truly the best and cares about everyone she meets! Thank you Faiza for all that you do and make us feel at home!
MAY 2017 | CHARTWELLSMONTHLY.COM
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people / moms of chartwells
They love what they do!
Moms and Dads of Chartwells: Serving Up Heart And Soul There may be no place like home... ...but these associates bring compassion and flavor to students on campus. Whether guests need a smile to greet them, a hug when they’re feeling down or a high five for acing that biology exam, these “Moms and Dads of Chartwells Higher Education” make the dining experience, and life in general, better. They all love what they do and they have their hearts on the line. Meet these moms and dads who make a difference every day. 4
CHARTWELLSMONTHLY.COM | MAY 2017
moms & dads of chartwells / people CAL MARITIME
Mom Purdy Makes Waves At Cal Maritime Whether she’s working at sea or on shore, Romaine Purdy has consistently gone above and beyond for the students, faculty and staff of Cal Maritime (California State University Maritime Academy). “Mom,” as she is affectionately called, has served the Vallejo community for more than 29 years, since 1987. Born in Sri Lanka, before arriving on campus she worked at several restaurants in the Vallejo area. After her late husband, Alton Purdy, was stationed at Travis Air Force Base, she found her home at Cal Maritime. Mom Purdy has been an integral part of 26 summertime cruises, creating lifelong memories for everyone she encounters. She has also contributed generously to the CMA Foundation in support of Cal Maritime students. In addition to the thousands of cadets who have come through the Academy, Mom has four children of her own: Jennifer, LeeAnne, Edward and Sharon.
STANISLAUS STATE UNIVERSITY
Grammy’s Sammies In Demand At Stanislaus State One bite and students understand why there’s always a long line of people wrapping around the corner of “Grandma’s Station” at Stanislaus State University in Turlock, California. The delicious, made-to-order sandwiches handcrafted by “Grandma” Elizabeth Bullinger have created a stir among students at Stan State. In fact, she has become a Chartwells institution during the past 10 years, where she has served more than 50 happy guests a day. They are all willing to wait in line at this retail deli to get face time and fresh food made lovingly by Grandma Bullinger. Not surprisingly, she memorizes their sandwich orders and engages in conversation, providing insight and support. Her roots and love for sandwich making stems from the years she served as the lead at the Hafbrua station, which later transformed to “Grammy’s Sammies.” Hold the pickle and lettuce, Grandma B.! MAY 2017 | CHARTWELLSMONTHLY.COM
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people / moms & dads of chartwells
CLEVELAND STATE UNIVERSITY
“Mama G” Mentors Thousands At Cleveland State
UNIVERSITY OF NORTH FLORIDA
Tri Treats Everyone Sweetly Tri Stamm is the early morning baker at Einstein’s who also transforms into everyone’s mother from 5:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the University of North Florida in Jacksonville. Rachel Mattoon, a UNF senior nutrition major, says, “She’s always watching over me.” If a student forgets his or her nametag, Tri makes a new one before the manager arrives. She also buys lunch for student interns with intellectual disabilities who are short on cash. The respect she has earned for caring so much about her associates has also set her apart. Since July 2009, Tri has trained and mentored more than 100 associates. If someone needs a ride home, she will help. If delicious Indonesian food is required at the next associate meeting, she will comply. According to her store supervisor, Ahmed Hamed, “She’s always right behind you, cleaning up, putting things in order.” If an associate is running late, she is the first to call or text, “Are you OK?” Her motherly devotion has earned her rock star status with students and coworkers. Although her only children are her cats, Smokey and Rosa, and her dog, Max, Tri is the heart of the family here.
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CHARTWELLSMONTHLY.COM | MAY 2017
For nine years, Chartwells’ CSU Dining associate, Gloria “Mama G” Jenkins, has mentored thousands of students at Cleveland State University. The most recognized Dining associate on campus, she also became an Internet sensation when CSU students created a Facebook fan page for her. Jenkins, who shines with a special engagement for every guest, follows up with nearly everyone she serves: The student who was dreading an exam, the student who had relationship problems and the student who wanted advice about her wardrobe. Mama G’s impact is so lasting and strong, a recent valedictorian recounted in her commencement speech how it was Gloria who kept her encouraged during challenging times. Most recently, this star cashier received two student organization awards for her “overwhelming customer service” on this Ohio campus. She was awarded an “Apple Polishing Award” from the Order of Omega Honor Society, nominated by Sigma Tau Gamma fraternity, and the “Excellence in Service to Students Award” from the National Society of Leadership and Success, Sigma Alpha Pi chapter. These prestigious awards are almost exclusively conferred upon faculty or senior university staff. Jenkins is believed to be the first CSU Dining associate to receive this distinction. An unofficial guidance counselor at Cleveland State, the love she tenders is genuine. As Jenkins said in her acceptance speech at the Apple Polishing ceremony, “Y’all are like my kids, and I’ve got thousands of you!” She added how she felt lucky to have met so many wonderful students and that watching them grow into adulthood is what brings her the greatest joy.
Gloria Jenkins received the Excellence in Service to Students award, normally reserved for faculty or senior university staff
Chartwells would like to thank
Irene Gilmore for 58
YEARS of
hard work and dedication at Stetson University Dining
Irene (right)
STETSON UNIVERSITY
Gem Of Stetson Dining Sparkles Little did Irene Gilmore know that when she boarded a Greyhound bus bound for DeLand, Florida, she would spend nearly six decades working for Stetson University Dining. It was November 1958 and she was 19. Since that fateful beginning, she has served in almost every facet of Stetson Dining: As salad prep, cook, baker, chef, cooking instructor, caterer and now line server. She has fed three generations of Stetson students — ones who attended early in her career later sent their children and now their grandchildren here. Now 78, this motherly icon has touched thousands. “Miss Irene” or “Miss I,” known for giving hugs while serving meals, retired earlier this month. During a recent shift, she stepped out from behind the serving line to give students or staff a quick hug and ask how they were doing. “I’m a huggy person,” she says, with a laugh. “You know, life can be so disappointing that I just like to be a light in somebody’s life.” For Stetson senior Andrew Adams, she has been a comforting presence as they talk each day when he comes through the serving line. “When you’re feeling stressed out, she comes in and reminds us that, ‘You’ve got this. You’ve come so far. Keep on going,’” says Adams, a digital arts major from Atlanta.
ing them up if their cars broke down, taking them out for dinner or inviting them over for dinner at her house. Winifred B. Henry was 19 when she transferred to Stetson in 1982 and was assigned to work in the cafeteria. “I became very drawn to her,” she said. Sometimes, Henry would join other students at Gilmore’s house to play games in the evening and go to church with her on Sundays. If she couldn’t fall asleep at night, she would call Gilmore and they would go get something to eat at IHOP.
She was like my mom away from home.
“She was like my mom away from home, and I’ve never called anyone that,” says Henry, now a retired teacher in Duval County who runs a nonprofit called Winnie’s Project H.O.P.E.
Irene’s son, Ray Gibson, said students and other people have always been drawn to his mother – a caring person who they could talk to easily. He went to work in the Stetson cafeteria at age 18 and worked with his mother there for 25 years. “We have a lot of people who are going to miss her. She’s had an unbelievable run in that job,” he says.
Over the years, she befriended countless students, pickMAY 2017 | CHARTWELLSMONTHLY.COM
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people / moms & dads of chartwells
SAINT MARY’S UNIVERSITY
Now That’s Amore Some moms are known for baking great pies, but Ray Friese lovingly crafts the best pizza pies at Saint Mary’s University in Winona, Minnesota. With Chartwells since 2014, Friese takes this Italian dish to the next level for students in the dining hall here. Chatting with students he takes note of their pie preferences, memorizing details like those who like olives and their usual arrival times. So when a certain student strolls into the dining hall, his or her slices with olives will be piping hot and ready. And he always serves them with a smile! An innovator, Friese also surprises hungry guests with new specialty pizza pies nearly every day, and they’re always a hit. The new favorite is “bacon cheeseburger pizza.” No wonder students regularly nominate him as a star associate. And like extra mozzarella, his commitment to Chartwells melts over to support fellow associates and operations. He’s always anticipating needs and pitching in without being asked. For example, who tackles extra tasks, like scraping down the sides of hard pack ice cream so it’s easier to scoop when students arrive? Friese. Who is the last one cleaning up after lunch and never complaining? Friese. Mama Mia! Chartwells is so fortunate to have Ray Friese as an important member of its team.
Customer My name is Jelani and I just want to say that Mr. Daryl is one of my favorite employees, he shows that he really cares about the students – interacts and treats us like family, also cooks some really good pasta
Greensboro Spartan Dining began utilizing ChattBack’s text feedback platform to listen and reply to students and improve satisfaction and retention. Student engagement was strong and feedback was both positive and negative. Part of Chartwells’ culture is to celebrate and share the good things that happen. Here’s a look at feedback from a student with a focus on food quality, and equally important, the staff’s kindness, passion and dedication.
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CHARTWELLSMONTHLY.COM | MAY 2017
Greensboro Spartan Dining Thanks for the wonderful Feedback, Jelani. We think the world of Daryl too! Customer Mr. Eric really makes sure the pizza is cooked to its finest and says himself that “if I’m not going to eat it then why would y’all?” Greensboro Spartan Dining Thanks for feedback, Jelani. We certainly appreciate him and will let him know your great feedback. Greensboro Spartan Dining These are great examples of our commitment to customer service.
people
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First Student Success Interns And Their Journey To Success Congratulations
to our first Student Success Program graduates, and welcome to the Chartwells Higher Education team! It has been very exciting watching you all grow into future leaders. This year, we had more than 100 interns, and I am so happy to see more than 10 interns hired as full-time managers at Chartwells! You have
kicked off this program flawlessly, and I know next year ’s Student Success team will be following your footsteps to success! Meet some of our stellar graduating interns (below). Thank you to you and all of your managers and, again, congratulations! — Bari Marchfeld, Director of Student Success
1. Kelsey Hollin
2. Elizabeth McDaniel
3. Jackie Heller
Honing her culinary talents while also trying to beat the clock helped Kelsey Hollin graduate from Chartwells intern to Culinary Lead. This Johnson & Wales University student’s reliability as an associate and creativity as a chef were solid.
Elizabeth McDaniel, Auburn University senior marketing major, decided to hunt for hands-on experience in her field. She submitted her resume and was awarded a marketing internship with AU Tiger Dining. Excited to put her ideas into action, McDaniels pounced on every opportunity to enhance the campus dining experience. Running with the creative freedom she was given, McDaniel watched her marketing campaigns, themed events and concepts come to life.
Do a search for UNF Dining Services “Golf Cart Karaoke,” and Jackie Heller pops up. The University of North Florida senior communications major is mastermind behind this and “Snap Chat Take Overs” and “‘90s Night” that put FUN in UNF Dining. Nominated as the Southeast “Be A Star” winner for her clever ideas, Heller’s internship began in the fall of 2016, while Chartwells was in the midst of a crucial rebid (which the company won!).
After her 2015-16 winter internship, Hollin returned to Chartwells as a Student Associate. This allowed her to continue working alongside Culinary Leads and grow into the role of a leader. She continued to cultivate her strengths and her shining hour as a student employee came when she cooked her own special Greekthemed dinner. Her persistence and diligence paid off when she was selected to represent the Cuisine pillar in the Chartwells Be A Star program. Today, her role at Chartwells at Johnson & Wales University continues to evolve. This Culinary Lead’s advice for future interns: Work hard and work fast!
As she says, “Sam Holt (Director of Marketing and Guest Experience) and Bill Sallustro (Resident District Manager) gave me support and independence in my role to execute my ideas, and I am very grateful for their guidance during my internship!” Now, this Student Success intern is preparing for her next big Chartwells role: As Marketing Manager for Florida Polytechnic University and Southeastern University Dining Services.
Not one to waste time, she took the reins to help drive student engagement, achieving double-digit growth on social media, a healthy lift in voluntary meal plan sales, and the highest combination of survey scores and participation this campus has ever seen. Heller quickly became one of the most recognizable faces of the brand. Her impact and contributions have been so positive, Chartwells just had to retain her full time for the upcoming fall 2017 semester! MAY 2017 | CHARTWELLSMONTHLY.COM
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Chartwells Higher Education Dining Services • 2 International Drive, Rye Brook, NY 10573 Media interested in any additional details for content published in Chartwells Monthly can contact Meredith Bracken. Meredith.Bracken@compass-usa.com Phone: 914-935-5326 Web: www.ChartwellsHigherEd.com • www.ChartwellsMonthly.com • www.DineOnCampus.com Privacy and Terms of Use All content © Chartwells USA. © 2017 Compass Group USA, Inc. All rights reserved. Chartwells Monthly production by: Kaleidoscopic, Inc. www.kaleidoscopicinc.com
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