Liberty Dining Celebrates National Employee Appreciation

Liberty University Dining by Sodexo celebrated National Employee Appreciation day on March 5 by recognizing team members who go above and beyond for Liberty University students and the campus community. The theme of this year’s event is “It’s all thanks to them.”

In addition to an employee raffle with prizes including a 50-inch flat screen television, students were encouraged to write thank you notes on large posters to be given to the staff that day. Teams displayed these in their back areas so that all employees could enjoy the notes of appreciation every day going forward.

Managers at the Food Court at Reber-Thomas served Thanksgiving-themed finger foods to employees, playing on the day of thanks, such as wings, fried green beans, mac-n-cheese bites, cupcakes, and pie.

Teams throughout campus had celebrations of their own and flyers were on display that communicated appreciation.

Dining managers submitted blurbs on social media channels about employees of whom they especially appreciative.

Barbara Krantz, for example, is senior supervisor at the Tinney Café at the Jerry Falwell Library. On campus since 2008, she trained at each unit and is an invaluable asset to the team. Managers say that Krantz is always upbeat and positive and excels at all tasks and assignments.

“Truly, we could not be as operationally ready and professional without her hard work, professionalism, and dedication,” said Retail Manager Todd Reynolds.

Sadie Bailey is recognized for her dedication and expertise with safety on campus and serving round the clock as the first level contact and response for COVID-19 safety and compliance concerns. Bailey conducts virtual or in-person COVID-19 safety assessments, coordinates planning and implementation of the work unit’s COVID-19 safety procedures, and assists work unit supervisors with the assessment, contact tracing, closure, and response. She responds to student, employee, and authorized visitor questions regarding requirements within designated buildings and work areas.

Karen Shaver, a retail manager at the Montview Student Union, said “Our team is made up of students and Lynchburg locals that work together really well day in and day out. They make sure every student is getting hot, fresh, great food. Though the work can be challenging, they always have smiling faces.”

James Page is a dedicated employee willing to help anywhere needed. He keeps the South Street location booming at night.

“James started with us a year ago as a Team Lead,” said Keith Wilson, retail manager, Tilley Student Center. “When COVID-19 hit and there were layoffs and need for social distancing, he provided extra help. All through the Fall 2020 semester, he kept South Street going every single day, which led to his recent promotion as supervisor of South Street.”

Wilson expressed appreciation for Yvonne Blanton, a supervisor at Tilley Student Center, for working extra-long shifts wherever needed across campus when short-staffed. He thanks Shaneika Jackson, a Dunkin’/natural! team lead, for knowing customers by name and remembering what they drink. She is a dedicated team member willing to work extra shifts if needed.

“We want to make sure our employees know how valuable they are to our Liberty Dining family,” said Sodexo Marketing Manager Shelby Burton. “Our food service employees deserve recognition and appreciation every single day. They are the reason the students, faculty, staff, and campus visitors get so many delicious meal options.”