Fall is officially underway, and our dining locations are buzzing with activity! It’s wonderful to see our dining halls filled with students and our teams continuing to find new ways to make the dining experience special. From new offerings like cinnamon rolls at 251/Denton Dining Hall to upcoming events like Harvest Fest, there is plenty to look forward to this month.
I’m also proud to share some exciting news about one of our own. Aricelda Munoz received a President’s Distinguished Service Award during Faculty & Staff Convocation. This prestigious recognition honors university staff members who demonstrate exceptional performance, leadership, and service, as well as make distinctive contributions to their units and the university community.
Aricelda’s recognition is a wonderful reflection of the dedication and leadership we see throughout Dining Services. Please join me in congratulating her on this well-deserved honor!
As we move through another busy month, thank you to everyone across Dining Services for the energy, creativity, and commitment you bring to our students and guests each day. I hope you take a moment to enjoy the fall season and celebrate all that our team continues to accomplish.
As summer came to a close, Terp Farm brought a little sunshine to campus with a sunflower giveaway for UMD students. Students had the opportunity to take home fresh sunflowers grown at Terp Farm while learning more about the farm and its role within Maryland Dining.
Terp Farm student employees used the giveaway as an opportunity to connect with fellow Terps, share information about the farm, and highlight the work that goes into growing fresh, local produce for our campus community.
The event was a fun way to celebrate the end of the summer growing season while helping more students discover the people, purpose, and work behind Terp Farm.
Congratulations to employees who have recently started in a new position!
Our Dining Services leadership team continues to grow! Over the past few months, we’ve welcomed new faces to Maryland Dining and celebrated team members who have stepped into new leadership roles.
Each of these leaders brings their own experience, perspective, and strengths to their role, along with a shared commitment to supporting our employees and creating an exceptional experience for the UMD community.
We’re excited for you to get to know them! Check out the fun facts below to learn a little more about each of our new leaders, and be sure to say hello and congratulate them when you see them around Dining Services.
Please join us in welcoming and celebrating our newest leaders!
Opal Scott, Assistant Director of Yahentamitsi Dining Hall: Im secretly a car enthusiast.
Jim Baxendell, Satellite Operations General Manager: I can throw an awesome curveball with a wiffleball, and helped get my wiffle team from a summer wiffleball league into 2nd place for our fall league play this year. Yes the skinny yellow bat and white baseball sized wiffle ball type of league, don't think it's too serious, it was a farm brewery sponsored league so we did always stay hydrated.
Daniel Dunmire, Concessions Manager: I am 50 percent Celsius by volume.
Lila Eska, 251/Denton Food Service Manager: I love to play pickleball.
LaChelle Pierce-Fogle, Assistant Director of 251/Denton Dining Hall: I played lady flag football for seven years.
Kaye Blackwell, 251/Denton Food Service Manager: I was born in Japan.
Amber Johnson, Food Service Manager Catering: I love Ghostface from Scream. Obsessed.
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Prevent Cross-Contamination
A busy dining environment means spills, wet floors, boxes, cords, and other hazards can quickly lead to slips, trips, or falls.
Help keep yourself and your coworkers safe by cleaning up spills immediately, keeping walkways and work areas clear, and using wet-floor signs when needed. Wear appropriate slip- resistant footwear and avoid carrying loads that block your view of where you’re walking.
Remember: If you see a hazard, don’t walk past it; take care of it or report it. A few seconds of prevention can help keep everyone safe!