Throughout the year, Facilities staff members work diligently to help keep St. Paul's Chapel and Earl Hall Center attractive and functional University landmarks. Facilities workers serve as Sextons for approximately 90 wedding ceremonies, assist with memorial services for University staff members, and play an important role in preparing St. Paul's Chapel for Commencement Week - including setting up folded chairs, audio/visual equipment, and even coordinating the ringing of the Chapel bells. This hard work was recognized by University Chaplain Jewelnel Davis, who for the second consecutive year hosted an honorary luncheon for Facilities employees on August 3, 2011.
"I really would like to thank you from the heart. Each of you takes what you do seriously. Everyone here has this essence, and I am very grateful," Chaplain Davis told the approximately 50 cleaners, carpenters, plumbers, and electricians gathered within in the Choir Room of St. Paul's Chapel.
Her praises were reiterated by Facilities Executive Vice President Joe Ienuso and Facilities Assistant Vice President of Operations Don Schlosser, who each thanked the hundreds of workers on their team. Ienuso noted that even as this past winter's record-setting snowstorms threatened to prevent campus accessibility and the current sweltering summer weather challenged building operations, Facilities workers resiliently kept the buildings running smoothly. This commitment to excellence remains not just a cause for celebration but an example of all that Facilities does each day for the campus community.
