Kelly Carbonneau, administration supervisor

Russell Sage College/Sodexo

Nominator: David Gaul, general manager, Sodexo

“Kelly has been with Sodexo for 13 years and is a vitally important member of the dining team. She has been instrumental in coordinating 1,000 and more quarantine meals across two separate campuses, which includes delivery to residence halls. She very often is responding to and coordinating them from home as students quarantine off hours. She works very closely with the residence life staff, who have mentioned in several forms of medium that they are so happy to know that she goes out of her way to be sure the students at Russell Sage College are well taken care of, as well as being responsive and timely to their needs.

Kelly is also our catering admin and coordinates and books all of our events. In recent months, due to significant staffing challenges, she has taken on the added responsibilities of delivering catering, and done so with pride and exceptional customer care.

In addition to being a floor supervisor in our dining hall, she coordinates staffing schedules, safety trainings and HR functions to include onboarding, weekly payroll, Q&A, etc.

Kelly is always pleasant, supportive, engaged and focused on employee and customer satisfaction. She is always looking ahead to keep us focused on business, a true asset to the successful partnership between Sodexo and Russell Sage College!”

Melissa Cook, catering manager

Roberts Wesleyan College/Metz Culinary Management

Nominator: Maureen Metz, executive vice president, Metz Culinary Management

“Melissa Cook has gone far above what is expected of an individual in her position.

Being a newly hired manager fresh out of college, Melissa was thrown into the upside-down world of COVID-19 as we transitioned from fully staffed to a skeleton crew feeding students unable to find a way home. Her unmatched hospitality skills created a welcoming environment in a time filled with angst and uncertainty. Small personal touches of writing notes on students' to-go boxes were a prime example of Melissa going above her assigned duties to support a successful dining services program.

Melissa did whatever it took to keep the team operational, from serving as a short-order cook to preparing main course entrees. As our general manager was furloughed and the aura of uncertainty increased in the beginning months of the pandemic, Melissa took on even more responsibilities. Despite the constant threat of being furloughed herself, Melissa was fearless in her devotion to her team. She learned new systems and operating procedures to ensure all aspects of the business stayed functional; she became so adept in these systems that it made her invaluable to the success of our account.

As we came closer to reopening, Melissa helped lead the charge in devising the proper protocols to serve the student body at Roberts Wesleyan College. Her attention to detail and organization are incomparable.

Melissa recently received the Metz Culinary Management Exemplary Service Award recognizing a team member who demonstrates and models outstanding service on a campus and across the Metz organization. She deserves all the possible recognition to show what an accomplished leader and manager she has become in such a short time.”

Cory Craft, supervisor

Indiana University of South Bend

Nominator: Jessica Buzza, district marketing manager, Sodexo

“Cory has been a reliable and a strong worker through thick and thin at IUSB. From early mornings to late evenings, Cory is always someone we can count on at work! She has also stepped up and has grown into a new supervisor role and is always eager to learn more. Thank you, Cory!”

Cory Craft, supervisor

Indiana University of South Bend

Nominator: Jessica Buzza, district marketing manager, Sodexo

“Cory has been a reliable and a strong worker through thick and thin at IUSB. From early mornings to late evenings, Cory is always someone we can count on at work! She has also stepped up and has grown into a new supervisor role and is always eager to learn more. Thank you, Cory!”

Michael Fairchild, purchasing manager

Washington University in St. Louis/ Bon Appetit Management Co.

Nominator: Jessie Gentz, regional director of brand activation, Bon Appetit Management Co.

“Michael Fairchild, purchasing manager, was immediately the individual who came to mind when thinking of an unsung hero here on the Washington University in St. Louis campus.

hero [heer-oh] noun: a person noted for courageous acts or nobility of character

Mike’s “noble character” shines through the following ways…

• His heart and dedication to the WashU student community is seen through his extra time and efforts to ensure product is available to the team to support the campus needs.

• Mike is an effective team player in coordination of all dining logistics throughout the pandemic, including jumping in last minute to coordinate and execute multiple intricate graduation ceremonies.

• During this unprecedented time of COVID, Mike’s focus and support of COVID safety protocols was appreciated by his fellow workers and the WashU community.

• Mike shows resilient leadership in retail dining, as well as supporting the additional needs of quarantine and isolation meals for those impacted by COVID.

• His impact is seen beyond his position of purchasing manager, as he has supported in other positions, including utility, cook, stocking and even as a delivery driver!”

Angel Finch, supervisor

Sisters Café, Sodexo at Manchester University

Nominator: Leslie Standiford, food operations manager, Sodexo at Manchester University

“Angel has worked for Sisters Cafe for 12 years, and is our supervisor at our We Proudly Serve location. She is a fan favorite with a friendly smile and delightful personality. She is a great leader, trainer and employee who we can always count on. She is our face of Sisters Cafe!”

Marie Gilner, supervisor

Bethel University /Sodexo

Nominator: Jessica Buzza, district marketing manager, Sodexo

“Marie has been with Sodexo for four years and has grown greatly throughout her time on the team at Bethel University. Campus tour guides rave about Marie's customer service and deli sandwiches and students enjoy seeing her on a daily basis. During severe labor shortages, Marie stepped up into a supervisor role at a student run dining facility on campus. Before Marie was in charge, workers were out of control with calling off and handling of food. Now that Marie is there, the dining area has a better work structure and student workers greatly respect her.” 

Margo Granier, supervisor for safety, training and catering

Loyola New Orleans

Nominator: Charles Casrill, general manager, Sodexo-Loyola New Orleans

“Working through the ever-changing New Orleans environment of hurricanes, COVID, tornados and employee shortages, she has been a constant shot of energy to our team. Always going out of her way to help a fellow employee in need, to say hello, to be a kind listening ear, or just rolling up her sleeves and working hard to get the job done, she is always there with a smile and positive attitude. Margot wears so many hats during the day, sometimes she is wearing them all at one time. She never wavers and always works to bring out the best in the situation. We would be lost without her!”

Marvin Gray, supervisor I

Sodexo/University of Southern Indiana

Nominator: Gregory Dillard, campus executive chef, Sodexo/USI

“This individual started as a student worker, and over the years has been promoted to a lead cook and most recently a supervisor.”

Kasondra Green, supervisor

Dutchess Drumlin Market

Nominator: Sean Herdina, chef manager, Chartwells

“Positive presence in the kitchen, always willing to help in any situation.”

Saquetta Harvest, FOH supervisor

University of Arkansas Monticello/Aramark

Nominator: Rossia Brown-Broughton, foodservice director, Aramark

“Saquetta is a hard-working person who brings sunshine into the life of anyone she meets. Students and customers have stated over and over again, ‘If I'm having a bad day, I just go to the Cafe and see Mrs. Saquetta to brighten up my day.’ You never know when someone is having a bad day. Saquetta keeps a smile on her face just to make someone’s day get a little brighter.”

Jeanette Hasley, office manager

Schreiner University/Chartwells Higher Ed

Nominator: Carmen Owens, director of dining services, Chartwells Higher Ed

“Jeanette is not just an extraordinary office manager, she is a consistent and welcoming presence for students and staff alike. She is a smart, accommodating, creative problem-solver who tackles all challenges with a can-do attitude. Her wealth of knowledge from 20+ years of dedicated service at Schreiner University is unparalleled. She is THE go-to resource for questions ranging from student dietary preferences to nitty gritty budget details. She champions staff and students equally, making sure that everyone feels taken care of on our campus. She is certainly capable of doing a much higher profile job but is perfectly happy to stay ‘behind the scenes’ in the office and make a difference at the personal level for everyone in our operation. And, in fact, many may not realize how critical she is to keeping things rolling, as she has done plenty of director level work in the past, whether there was a director in place or not. Plus, she's always game to support our people, with a moment's notice birthday video for staff or a quick cheerleading text to someone who's going through a hard shift. In short, she is the reason our operation stays together no matter what else is going on. Our campus wouldn't be the same without her.”

Johnnie Hyde, residential supervisor

Methodist Dining Services, Aramark at Methodist University

Nominator: Jill Small, general manager, Aramark at Methodist University

“The cafeteria staff at Methodist University exemplify not just doing their jobs but going over and above to create connections with each and every student they serve. Any survey taken about the cafeteria and what students want improved undoubtedly consists of complaints about food and atmosphere, but without fail there will also be included statements such as ‘the staff is great though!’. Students who end up transferring often tell those of us who still go here to ‘say hi to [insert caf member] for me’ and the workers will know exactly who you are talking about. You can always get better food and better seating, but there is no better staffing than who we have now. I have seen how my residents and fellow students have talked about the relationships they’ve created, and experienced the mental and emotional benefits myself, specifically and especially this month.

When negative life events happen to me, I tend to isolate and not reach out to talk to anyone. One of those events happened to me at the beginning of this past month, and while I had my trusted people to talk to, throughout the day I would still get stuck in a rut. The staff in the cafeteria noticed right away and they were some of the first people to ask me if everything was alright, and that I didn’t look myself. At first, I just shrugged it off and said I was fine. But every time I went in there, their conversations would poke through the mental fog I was in and sometimes would be the only real connection I felt with the world.”

Joseph Iovino, operations manager

Harvard University Law School.

Nominator: Andrew Urbanetti, executive chef, Harvard University

“Throughout the opening of a new account, in the wake of a pandemic, and while lacking in direct oversight and support, Joe's unwavering positivity and relentless drive have undoubtedly helped bring about the success of the past academic year.”

Amy Krosky, foodservice supervisor

Fairfield University/Aramark

Nominator: Ivana Durbic, foodservice director, Aramark

“Amy is a front of the house food service supervisor in our resident dining department. Amy has been here on campus over 15 years and has worn many hats during that time span. Over the past year, Amy has been instrumental in consistently running our front of the house and ensuring a seamless student experience when our client transitioned between food service providers this past year. Amy has worked though the many ups and downs on serving students during COVID and the challenges that came with that, all the while balancing her home life and taking care of her autistic daughter Gabby. Amy has always put our students first and done her best to make sure they have a great time in our dining establishments, despite any challenges personal or work-related.” 

Ann Martin, marketing manager

Rockhurst University in Kansas City/Chartwells

Nominator: Nicole Young, district marketing director, Chartwells

“Ann has gone above and beyond to create experiences within the dining center that help students feel connected to campus and each other after COVID has made everyone feel so isolated. She sets up multiple events each week based on student feedback and requests, and what is new and on trend, and then connects with student groups and individuals to make sure they know that they are not only welcome but wanted in our facilities, and that she and the rest of the Rockhurst dining team are there to make a space where they can belong and make lifelong memories. Ann has done such an amazing job that the university nominated her for Rockhurst staff member of the year (an award that is traditionally not given to university contractors), and the students overwhelmingly voted Ann as the winner. She continues to prove that creating the right environment and a space of inclusion is just as important as serving an excellent meal. You can read more about Ann and her efforts here.”

Tracy Mckay, supervisor

Colgate University/Chartwells

Nominator: Don Stanwick, resident district manager, Chartwells

“Tracy took on a leadership role during the past year in a location that only had 10% of its staff return. She helped turn it around, trained student workers and other full-time workers, as well as led the team in passing several inspections with top marks.” 

Mike Mosley, kitchen supervisor

Bethel University /Sodexo

Nominator: Jessica Buzza, district marketing manager, Sodexo

“Mike has been on the Sodexo team for over two years. When Mike first started, he dealt with a major learning curve and improved his cooking abilities through critiques. Even during stressful times, Mike always has a great attitude. Currently Mike is on the team at Bethel University and is also a proud veteran who has implemented themed meals to educate students on military services.” 

Don Nason, chef manager/general manager

Cypress Bend Cafe, University of Texas at Austin

Nominator: Martin DeLeon, sous chef, University of Texas

“Always goes above and beyond for his staff at Cypress Bend Cafe and goes the extra mile to help out the catering team when needed.” 

Jenifer Nazario-Figueroa, dining services supervisor

SUNY Polytechnic Institute Student Center Food Court

Nominator: Brian Hanna, retail manager II, Sodexo

“Jenifer is a supervisor for our food court at SUNY Polytechnic Institute in Utica, NY. Jenifer routinely goes above and beyond to serve the students on our small campus. Last semester, I received this email from our general manager to share with Jenifer: 

‘Yesterday I met with a student who is also a student employee. The conversation was planned, so I could learn more about her dietary needs. I learned a whole lot more. She shared a story about when she was having a bad day and was near tears. She went to the Student Center to grab some food and you were there. You noticed that she was feeling down and started a conversation with her. You were also perceptive that she may need comforting and asked, ‘Maybe I shouldn't do this, but you look like you need a hug?” The student replied that she would like that very much. You gave her a hug, then asked her what you could cook for her. I don't remember what you cooked for her; I was trying to keep the tears out of my eyes. While hugging customers can be a touchy (no pun intended) subject, you made the right choice.

THANK YOU, this is truly exceeding expectations. I am so grateful that you exhibit this level of care toward our students/customers. As I talked with the student (over an hour!), it became apparent that these connections on campus are especially important to her. 

There's more... 

When speaking with our director of disability services this morning, she was highly complementary of you and the connections you have developed with some of the students she serves. Your friendly and welcoming personality creates a safe space where students know they're appreciated and welcome. She works with many of our students, and my primary connection with her is connecting with those students that have special dietary needs. She could not be more pleased with your ability to engage with, and welcome, all.’”

Kelly O’Mara, Maize and Blue Cupboard manager

Maize & Blue Cupboard, University of Michigan

Nominator: Keith Soster, director of sustainability, student & community engagement, Maize & Blue Cupboard & Michigan Dining, University of Michigan

“Kelly manages the food pantry on our campus. She works collaboratively with many students, staff and faculty in order to reduce stigma associated with food insecurity while serving those in need.”

Raymunda Rauer, resident dining supervisor

University of Mary Washington/Sodexo

Nominator: Rose Benedict, marketing specialist, Sodexo

“Ray is a fabulous front of the house supervisor! She takes wonderful care of her co-workers (brings in treats; remembers birthdays; is always supportive and encouraging; helps whenever needed) and she is full of energy and enthusiasm! She motivates the entire team and she helps makes every event fun and exciting! She’s famous for getting students and co-workers to join her in conga lines! In addition to all that, she jumps right in to help in every facet of our operations—prepping food, cooking at the action stations, mopping floors and washing dishes!” 

Heather Roark, facilities coordinator

University of Minnesota Twin Cities Campus/Aramark

Nominator: Mark Rossi, environmental hygiene officer, University of Minnesota

“For outstanding resourcefulness and knowledge of facilities/equipment that allows her to sort through myriad infrastructure/operational issues on a daily basis that, for most others, would present barriers to continuation of food service at 25 retail concepts and six residential dining centers for a campus population of 40,000 students, staff and visitors.” 

Jody Rucker, retail manager

Sodexo at The University of Findlay

Nominator: Riley McKinniss, unit marketing coordinator, Sodexo at The University of Findlay

“Jody Rucker, retail manager at Sodexo at The University of Findlay, is extremely passionate about the availability of domestic violence and rape crisis services here in Findlay, Ohio. Each year, she hosts a donation drive here at UF where all donations go to the Open Arms Center to support individuals experiencing domestic violence and/or sexual assault. Open Arms is a non-profit organization that provides individuals and families with the services and resources necessary to exit the abusive and unhealthy situations they may find themselves in, including a 24/7 hotline, shelter, clothing, food, etc. This year alone, Jody and her team were able to donate 30 boxes of items from the Open Arms wish list to the crisis center on behalf of the community, students, faculty and staff here at UF. The team also made a monetary donation of just over $100 towards the cause collected from students, faculty and staff.

New this year—Jody and her team reached out to local churches and organizations within the community to help out. We had multiple churches participate, along with the 50 North Senior Citizen Center, which all played a huge part in collecting donations for this year's drive. We look forward to breaking our record of 30 boxes next year!”

Jose Soto, unit lead/supervisor

University of Texas at Dallas/Chartwells Higher Education

Nominator: Carolyn Rutter, senior director of dining services, Chartwells Higher Education

“Jose is our unit lead at Chick-fil-A on campus at the University of Texas at Dallas who is affectionately known as Mr. Chick-fil-A, as he has embraced the Chick-fil-A culture and ensures he lives it each and every day in the unit. Also known as the ‘kitchen dad,’ Jose runs a tight ship to ensure the kitchen in our Student Union, which is shared by multiple units, runs smoothly and well-maintained and kept clean. In addition to this, with the difficulties of staffing that everyone is experiencing in this industry as we navigate this new normal, Jose is always willing to rearrange staffing and share associates with other areas to ensure the team as a whole is successful.”

Jovany Soto, unit lead/supervisor

University of Texas at Dallas/Chartwells Higher Education

Nominator: Carolyn Rutter, senior director of dining services, Chartwells Higher Education

“Jovany is our unit lead at Panda Express on campus at UTD. Recently promoted to this position (Fall 2021), Jovany was quick to run with this new position and took every opportunity to absorb the Panda Express culture and execute it throughout his unit. He has been able to take the reins of the unit in such a small amount of time and run such a smooth operation. Jovany goes above and beyond as a team member, with not only running his own unit, but making sure all common dining areas such as the kitchen and front of the house are maintained. Jovany ensures he involves and coaches all those he supports and oversees, which as his manager, is an absolute pleasure to witness.” 

True Sproull, supervisor

Bethel University /Sodexo

Nominator: Jessica Buzza, district marketing manager, Sodexo

“True has been with Sodexo for 32 years and has worked in many different departments all over within the company. True is currently on the Sodexo Dining team at Bethel University and is the supervisor for the coffee shop on campus. True has always been a worker the team can depend on and is flexible when it comes to picking up shifts. In True's current role, she has done a fantastic job on health inspections and has improved the dining experience. True is a hard worker and does her studying!” 

Latrice Wicks, foodservice supervisor

Mississippi State University/Aramark

Nominator: James Jankowski, resident district manager, Aramark

“In the four years I have been at MS State University, Latrice Wicks has proven to be a valuable team member within dining. Latrice was a supervisor at our athletic dining location, Templeton. Twice, her direct supervisor left in the middle of the year. Both times, Latrice did not hesitate to perform duties to keep the location running. She ensured production records were accurately kept and continued to perform food safety audits for the location. She would meet with our executive chef to go over menus, provide feedback from students, and revise as needed. 

Recently, her location was closed due to construction. Latrice transitioned into a lead kitchen role for our busiest dining hall on campus, Perry. She approaches each day with a positive attitude and greets her team members in the kitchen with a smiling face and boisterous ‘Good Morning!’. She has worked directly with Chef Dom to improve the quality of food, ensure consistency of our most popular items, and help develop signature dishes. 

Comments from her direct managers...

Dominic Towe: ‘Latrice is one of the top reasons why Perry (location on campus) is running on all cylinders. Latrice has the respect and admiration of her peers. In my humble opinion, Latrice Wicks is the strongest supervisor on this campus. She needs to be at the forefront of leadership, so she can grow and help us shine here at Mississippi State University Aramark.’

Lisa Minelli-Endlich: ‘I would like to recommend Latrice Wicks. Since I have started, Latrice has been on point. Latrice leads by example. Her time management and people skills are outstanding. Above all, she has a contagious can-do attitude. Latrice is a supervisor who goes above and beyond every shift.’”

Mary Williams, resident dining supervisor

University of Mary Washington/Sodexo

Nominator: Rose Benedict, marketing specialist, Sodexo

“Mary has built a wonderful rapport with all of our students, particularly those with dietary restrictions and food allergies. She knows the special needs of each of them and gives them personal service to ensure they get a great meal that fits within their restrictions. At the same time, she coordinates and watches over all the cooks and servers and gives them continual training on proper food preparation, presentation, portion sizes and customer service. She’s a great teacher, especially with team members who have differing abilities.” 

Ta'Niece Williams, retail supervison

Wiley College

Nominator: Kimberly Miller, district manager, Sodexo

“Ta'Neice is an extraordinary frontline employee who always goes above and beyond the need at our HBCU unit in my district, Wiley College. She is treasured by the president of the college for her attention to detail and amazing customer service at catering events, and the president stated, ‘I never want to have catering at my home that Ta'Niece isn't present for.’ Ta'Niece's talents don't merely cover catering, as she is also strong in retail and dining. She is the type of employee who will work anywhere you ask her to, any day or time you ask her to, and always happy to travel within the district and support another unit.”

Carmen Wimberly, supervisor

Dutchess Drumlin Market/Chartwells

Nominator: Sean Herdina, chef manager, Chartwells

“Goes above and beyond for customer satisfaction.”