Residential and Hospitality Services employees are given the opportunity to recognize their co-workers as mentors and individuals who deliver exceptional customer service. The following are these recognitions.
Angie Kimmel
"Angie Kimmel is the best customer service representative I have encountered in a long time, both here at MSU and off campus. Her people skills are great and she is very helpful at every turn. She takes the time to work with you and helps you understand what is needed for whatever problem you are having. I am always glad to work with Angie, and am very grateful for her help and positive attitude!" - Jay Makowski Tammy Jo Sopocy
"I bought some tickets from Tammy Jo recently and I want to say 'thank you' to all involved for getting us discounted tickets to the Lugnuts game. It will be a great opportunity to spend time with our families and develop work relationships, as a Division. My 5-year-old loves the Lugnuts; thanks to all involved!" - Carla Iansiti Don Swanson
"Don is always very helpful to us on a regular basis, but late last Friday Don stayed to help and get extra items that we needed for that night and the rest of the weekend to serve our guests. Don also picked these items himself and just really went above and beyond to deliver to us and our guests here at The Gallery. Thank you Don for all that you do!" - Kurt Kwiatkowski Katie Ham
"Katie Ham has the incredibly large task of forecasting and making sure products come in to Holmes Hall where we have been bringing in new recipes by the dozens. Katie never even blinks at this task. Katie’s can do attitude makes it a joy to work here on Michigan State University's campus." - Kevin Cruz Bob Nowicki
"Bob came through for H&FS HR at the last minute for a "Here For Success" tour on Feb. 25, 2009. The Divisional welcome program was touring the new Holden Hall renovation and our scheduled tour guide did not show up. I saw Bob in the area and asked if he could accommodate our group with a tour. He did a fabulous job for this group of new employees. He shared with us the exciting things happening at Holden and also provided us with some interesting history on the Division and MSU. Thanks for being there! You ROCK!" - Laura King Maria Giggy
"Maria has taken on additional leadership responsibilities and new initiatives, but without losing track of the important day-to-day details of our units' needs. She has always helped with projects with a positive attitude and produces stellar results in a timely fashion. Thank you! - Bill Matt John Rogus
"John is a team player with the Housing Assignments Office and the unit housing assistants. He thinks through problems and assists the staff in finding resolutions. On Friday, February 6, online Housing Sign-Up was slow in responding to returning students' requests for fall 2009 housing. John investigated the problem and stayed until he knew the housing system was accepting the students' housing requests. Thank you, John!"
- Pam Marcis Carol Ann Adado
"I purchased tickets for the Monster Truck Show and Carol Ann Adado at the Breslin Center ticket office was more than helpful. She went above and beyond the call of duty by taking us right into the arena to show us our seats! She was so kind. I just wanted to let someone know that she Delivered an Outstanding Spartan Experience to me." - Diane Jakovac Melanie McNutt
"Melanie assisted Concessions recently in setting up Spartan Cash at the Breslin Center for the MSU basketball games and other miscellaneous events. What was especially noteworthy was Melanie's communication with me through the entire process. She kept me in the loop on all aspects of setting up this service, including the reporting function, and kept in contact with me until she knew that my expectations had been totally met. The service she provided exceeded my expectations, and clearly showed her value to Information Services and MSU." - Bill Kost Jeff Bonk, Dan Giggy, Joe Petroff, Chuck Roberts, Tom Welburn and
The MSU Union Facilities Crew
"Without the help of Jeff, Dan, Joe, Chuck, Tom and the MSU Facilities staff, we would have been in quite a bind preparing for the recent Engineering Design Days/Holiday Arts & Crafts Show (which only overlap every seven years). The Engineering Design Days program requires all the available space in the MSU Union and is held Friday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Set-up for the Holiday Arts & Crafts Show (marking the 8’ x 5’ booth spaces with masking tape) usually begins at 9 a.m. Friday morning and finishes at 3 p.m. With accuracy as job #1, this crew of SUPER TAPERS led groups of UAB student volunteers in getting each room ready for the incoming crafters as the outstanding MSU Union facilities crew cleaned up after the Engineering groups as they vacated the rooms. This was the fastest and most accurate taping experience in many years of setting up this show. As a result of their leadership and hard work, we were ready to go for the load-in of the show and Delivered Outstanding Spartan Experiences to our crafters and customers. Way to go guys and THANKS so much!" - Tami Kuhn Don Donagrandi
"Don is all about people. He is really connected to to his team and genuinely cares about everyone. He cares both personally and professionally about our development, and his door is always for questions or just when we need a listening ear." - Carla Iansiti Elizabeth Ayres
"Liz exemplifies first-class customer service. Every time we have needed assistance with presentations, projects, Web site updates or need questions answered, she has helped in record time and with a winning attitude. Thanks to Liz for helping our efforts succeed." - Melanie McNutt Angie Kimmel
"Angie Kimmel is always friendly, patient, helpful and never condescending. She can fix any computer problem we have at the Union, and is kind enough to walk us through the steps to sort out any Groupwise issues. She is a real asset to Housing & Food Service." - Linda Gibson H&FS Concessions Staff
"Congratulations to the entire H&FS Concessions staff for pulling out all the stops to cater Barack Obama's recent 25,000-person Presidential Rally, with only 72 hours notice! As someone who attended the rally, I saw firsthand how appreciative attendees were to have a hotdog or a cup of hot cocoa after waiting hours in the cold, and at times, drizzling rain. Way to deliver and represent MSU in an outstanding way during this high-profile event." - Amanda Vasas Bill Kost and Dan Singer
"On Saturday, Sept. 6, 2008, Dan Singer of Athletic Catering and Bill Kost of Concessions, Delivered an Outstanding Spartan Experience to one of the Spartan Stadium suiteholders and his guests. The folks from Irvin Automotive were entertaining special guests in their suite for the MSU vs. Eastern Michigan football game. There was a request for the possibility of purchasing merchandise for one of the guest's small children. Dan was very accommodating in taking down all the information for the items requested and Bill gladly agreed to run to the Spartan Spirit Shop at the MSU Union to do the shopping. Bill came back with a few options to choose from and the guests were very pleased with this service. Special thanks to Bill and Dan for going above and beyond the call of duty to deliver a special experience to this group." - Stacey Robinson Kurt Kwiatkowski
"Thanks to Kurt for holding the staff of The Gallery at Snyder/Phillips together as a team during our especially busy opening. It is not unusual to see him in a chef coat or an apron in the dishroom." - Marie Guild Ellen Best
"Ellen Best is a dedicated employee and always has a pleasant disposition. She knows payroll and does her best to ensure that everyone is paid correctly. Over the years, she has been a mentor to new payroll staff in H&FS, and has volunteered for testing new payroll processes from the Systems Office. She does her job with a smile and does whatever it takes to keep her customers happy. Keep up the good work, Ellen!" Sharon Potter
"On the morning of Thursday, July 17, Wilson Hall experienced a fire in a student room that was caused by a malfunctioning fan brought by two sports camp attendees. The two occupants of the room were attending the swimming sports camp and were from Hong Kong. Once the sports camp counselors found them at the pool, the two campers came back to find a room covered in soot and all their belongings either ruined or reeking of smoke. Sharon Potter came to the rescue and worked with the students on gathering salvageable clothing and other items. She also made a fast road trip to Goodrich Shoprite and purchased a number of personal items to replace what was lost, with her own money. Additionally, Spartan Linen Services went to work on the campers’ smoky clothes and had them returned within three hours. The two campers were not only relieved, but they didn’t miss a single session of their sports camp. In addition, the South Complex staff moved the entire floor of campers to new rooms and everything proceeded smoothly. Thanks to Sharon, Spartan Linen and the South Complex staff for working together to deliver another Outstanding Spartan Experience!" - Paul Manson Julie Paul
"Julie has a great gift for taking care of guests needs on a daily basis. She uses her creativity to come up with some fun and tasty spins on classic desserts. Even when asked to at a last minute request she smiles and WOW's the guest time and time again." – Kurt Kwiatkowski Jim Lazar, Adam Koivisto
"Thanks to Jim Lazar and Adam Koivisto for providing me with an Outstanding Spartan Experience today at Spartan Village Apartments. After I showed up unexpectedly to take photos, Adam was not only quick to direct me to the Zone 1 demolition site, but also connected me with Jim Lazar, who kindly gave me a tour and provided me with some great background information. Thanks again and great work!" – Amanda Vasas Jenelle Wildbur
"Jennelle is an amazing housing assistant who provides great customer service to the students she interacts with. She has also been patient in teaching me a great deal about RMS software over the last year. Keep up the good work, Jennelle!" Diane Barker
“Over the years, Diane has never wavered from her dedication to our students and the development of her staff.” Brian Bevier
“Brian constantly assists not only our residents with emergency lock changes, but also has a wealth of knowledge pertaining to our buildings. His knowledge of the differences in what one building may need compared to another, from the windows to the water heater, still amazes me. We continue to rely on (and receive so much knowledge from) him to repair/replace anything in the Village. Brian sets the example of someone who is a ‘go-to’ employee.” – Marylou Manor Jeff Bonk
“He has been so helpful in solving an issue at Owen Hall. He has been nothing but helpful and respectful of all our needs at Owen.” – Linda Borrego Dawn Bower, Jane Emery, Sue Petrisin, Bill Whitbeck, Bob Wiltsie
“They have had to go above and beyond to keep this place functioning — with nearly 75 percent of staff either new or in new positions, they continue to keep up with the multiple demands and expectations to keep the economic engine running.” Ron Bray
“[Ron] has been seen assisting very elderly members of East Lansing Kiwanis in negotiating restrooms, elevators, entrances and general way-finding.” – Mark Simmons Cathy Carson
“Cathy works with UAB students who plan major events – often outdoor, Cathy works very closely with the students to make sure their event goes well, but she also follows up to be sure every detail is covered. This skill is a tremendous learning experience for all students and makes them great at what they do!” – Tami L. Kuhn Molly Chrome
“During commencement season each graduating family thinks they are the only ones graduating (of course it is one of the biggest days of their lives). Molly treats them all with patience and grace. Each one goes off into the world feeling like they were the only one graduating that day, just because Molly, as our leader, has us treat each one that way.” – Cathy Estrada Laura Cole
“I have witnessed Laura repeatedly deal with difficult situations — unhappy students, unhappy parents — and she exemplifies what it looks like to deliver outstanding Spartan experiences. Honestly, if we could all mirror this same spirit, we would be unstoppable!” Stephanie Czubak
“Stephanie handles every call by delivering outstanding Spartan experiences concepts. Many of the calls she receives are from prospective students (and parents) trying to reach Admissions. She assists them to the best of her ability prior to transferring the call so that they receive good customer service, even though they aren’t looking for our office. Way to go, Steph!” – Laurin Gierman Mary Ann Engel
“I feel that this person is an exceptional and adaptable worker. She can perform any duty given to her. She has the ability to think ‘outside the box’ to maintain exceptional Spartan experiences for all people she comes in contact with.” – Jim Hath Nathan Greene
“Every time I am in The State Room at the Kellogg Center, Nathan always has a smile on his face. If I need directions to the conference room he personally shows me. When I see him in The State Room, he never stops working. He is one of the hardest workers I have ever seen!” Bruce Haskell
“When presented with new ideas that are outside of his comfort zone, he is willing to set his personal feelings aside and appreciate the change.” Jeremy Heberlein
“[Jeremy] is always looking to improve the unit. [He] is a hard worker, willing to help out where needed, is always jovial, happy and smiling. [He] is an all- around great guy and always willing to show a better way.” – John Wilson Adrian James
“Adrian is known as the payroll specialist at Shaw Hall, but is much more than that! He helps the 100+ people and students that walk into the Business Office every day! Always calm, easy-going, finding out the answers and solving the problems – no matter how long it takes – 30 seconds to a few minutes. He also manages to get his work done, sometimes putting himself under stress because of his helpful nature. He also trained me to become more efficient in many payroll and office duties, reports, computer knowledge and MSU information. He delivers the Spartan Experience from his heart, hands and smile.” – Cherie Mitchell Patti Kalil
“[Patti] always goes out of her way to assist Kellogg Center guests in any way she can. Also, she continually helps all of her co-workers with job tasks to make their job a little easier when the operations are busy. Patti always has a smile and a kind word for everyone. She truly brightens the workplace and provides outstanding Spartan experiences for all internal and external guests on a daily basis!” – Jill Respecki Laura King
“Laura has invested herself in building community in University Village. She knows her customers by name and they know her. She has worked with the Residence Life director, Student Government and the Red Cedar neighborhood to plan and execute programs and activities promoting healthy relationships between the groups. The word ‘no’ is barely in her vocabulary – She looks for ways to say ‘yes’ and still she finds time to assist in the presentation of HR Programs!” – Tim Knight Kate Lake
“Kate puts together our two Arts & Crafts Shows. Her job requires a tremendous amount of tact in dealing with crafters. We are always complimented on the courtesy and quality of the students who work at the show; this is due to the tone that Kate sets.” – Tami L. Kuhn Christine Lockwood
“For courage under fire — she surprised and delighted the ‘4th Floor’ under trying circumstances.” Sharri Margraves
“She has been the best boss I have ever worked for in my entire career. She is positive, encouraging, knowledgeable and down-to-earth. She lets me take projects and run with them. She does not micromanage. She has opened my world to so many people on campus and so many opportunities. She is tuned into people and treats everyone fairly. She also knows how to reward staff for their achievements. I could go on and on, but I’m running out of paper!” – Theresa Sattazahn Sharri Margraves, Denise Zieleniewski
“These women are and have been ‘level 5 leaders’ for a long time. They are selfless and caring for other people, as well as the organization. I would not be able to take the steps that I have without their leadership.” – Rick Gierman Marketing Communications Staff
“An unbelievably committed group — every day. Pam, Liz, Linda, Chris, Eileen, Maria and Dean work tirelessly on behalf of their client customers. They have won many awards, but are truly happiest when they’ve created something that gets results for their clients and pleases their customers.” Dean Matsudo
"My name is Sarada Weerasinghe and I am turning Junior this coming fall. I have lived in Shaw Hall my Freshman and Sophomore years. I wanted you to know that I am happy with Shaw Hall's management and especially with Mr. Dean Matsudo. He has made considerable effort to satisfy all of our requests and is a great person!" Denise Ngubeni
“I have worked with Denise for 10 years at Forest Akers Golf Courses. I have seen her deliver outstanding customer service to our guests too many times to count. Her work as our event coordinator makes her the first person we contact for many of our outings. She acts as the ‘go-to’ person for each event and also executes most of them. Our golf events are second to none, and that is largely due to Denise’s customer service and organizational skills.” – Stephene Benkert Sue Petrisin
“Sue is connectivity embodied. She has used this ability to enact and inspire delivery of the Spartan experience within CMID and H&FS through her constant encouragement and challenge to us all to develop mutually beneficial connections and new resources for delivery service with pride, passion and innovation. Her dedication to furthering the pursuit of the Spartan experience within our department has shown recently in her initiation of CMID’s ‘It’s All About You’ event, where staff were encouraged to merge the departmental strategic objectives on environmental stewardship, customer service and effective communication with their daily work environment. Her ability to inspire and motivate those around her to reach higher goals will be a great tool in our departmental climb from good to great.” – Anna Sinischo Patrick Riley
“For going above and beyond on a daily basis and putting in extra hours to make his department successful. Also, lending a hand to other departments when they are in need.” Chuck Roberts
“Chuck is customer-focused in all that he does with his job at CMID/Facilities. He is intently interested in taking time to understand what the customer needs and then always seems to have the time to make sure the customer understands the options presented and the best fit. He is personable in all his communication, and his sense of initiative and dedication to H&FS/MSU is very tangible. Chuck is a great asset to those he serves!” Carolyn Roy, Bryce Henderson
Carolyn Roy, food service manager and Bryce Henderson, food service personnel supervisor, have gone WAY above the call of duty to ensure our success at Shaw Hall. I have been in my new position as Facilities Supervisor for only a few weeks. I had the challenge of coming to the work place the Thursday before finals week for the first time, and thus my first full week was move-out / finals week. They helped me organize crews, gave me a historical perspective, and counseled me in what works here in Shaw Hall and what does not. These are two individuals who are living examples of the term Spartners." - Rick Gierman Jody Seida
“A student needed a bike and couldn’t afford one, so Jody put one from home in her trunk and brought it to the student the next day — no charge. She always delivers an outstanding experience, and she consistently makes all students feel good and solves their problems with a smile.” Deborah Smith
“She has been a wonderful mentor, going above and beyond the call of duty to make me feel welcome as a new MSU employee, especially to help me train for my new position (which is third shift!). She managed this along with her other job, a husband and small children to care for. I think she is a great representation of a MSU employee. I thank her very much.” – Rebecca Reul Kim Smith
“She is always so cheerful and helpful. Whenever I need anything, she is very helpful and professional." Dean Snyder
“H&FS Human Resources does a lot of work with Marketing Communications and Dean Snyder always has a ‘can-do’ attitude and wonderful Spartan spirit! He is always friendly, helpful and a pure pleasure to deal with!” Ken Sprague
“This past semester, Akers/Hubbard Dining Services has been short two full-time cooks at the Akers Café. Ken Sprague, kitchen sanitation, stepped up the plate and out of his comfort zone to fill in the cook’s absences. He has truly exhibited many of the delivering outstanding Spartan experiences values. He stepped up as a part of his staff development and looked at the cooking as a learning opportunity. He practices strategic thinking, strategizing how he can best get the job done. He exhibits teamwork and a spirit of partnership, getting the job done by working together and works to exceed student and guest expectations. His motto? It never hurts to help!” Michelle Sprague
“Michelle not only completes her job, but works with the HNF 400 class teaching a special section on special events, assists in the class training during the year in Akers/Hubbard and meets with all the groups to help them plan their special events. She also works on numerous committees and assists with dinner at Shaw. She is a creative force behind many of Akers/Hubbard Dining Complex special events.” – Lary Tarnowski Donald Swanson
“Don treats everyone within our unit fairly and with respect. He consistently goes out of his way to deliver customer service that is above and beyond what is expected. He mentors employees (i.e., talks with and counsels employees regarding professional and personal problems). He makes coming to work a pleasure because of his positive attitude and genuine concern for each of his employees.” – Stephania Ford Kent Wakefield
“Kent is such a familiar face to our residents in the Circle – he talks to all the students and gets to know them personally. He take the time to do special events, something different every week, whether as large as a pig roast for our outdoor picnic or as small as serving up fruit with a chocolate fountain. Kent makes dining in West Circle memorable for our customers. He tries to make every meal special – a personal experience they want to come back to.” – Anita Sandel Deena Whitbeck
“Deena has done a great job implementing processes and improving project management to make us better.” | 
