Welcome back to all of our returning team members, and a special welcome to the new employees who recently joined Dining Services and attended our New Employee Orientation! We are excited to have you as part of our team.
September is always an exciting time for Dining Services. Our students are back, our units are busy, and our teams are once again doing what we do best; creating welcoming experiences and serving our campus community. Thank you to everyone who worked throughout the summer and helped prepare our facilities, teams, and operations for the start of another successful academic year.
As we settle into the semester, I also want to remind everyone about the importance of taking care of ourselves. The Faculty Staff Assistance Program (FSAP) is available to support full- and part-time University of Maryland employees through confidential assessment, referral, coaching, consultation, and short-term counseling. Employees can seek support for workplace concerns as well as personal matters such as stress, anxiety, relationships, family challenges, and financial concerns.
FSAP also offers opportunities to learn and connect through its Lunch and Learn series. The next session, Understanding the Lens of Incoming Students (Gen Z), will be held on Thursday, September 10, from noon–12:30 p.m. This is a timely opportunity to learn more about how today’s students approach communication, learning, and work, especially as we welcome a new class of Terps to campus.
We also have Family Weekend, September 25–27, to look forward to. This is another important opportunity for Dining Services to showcase our hospitality as families and friends visit campus and experience the University of Maryland alongside their Terps.
As we begin this new semester, thank you for your hard work, flexibility, and commitment to one another and to the students and guests we serve. Whether you are returning or just joining us, welcome to the fall semester. Let’s make it a great one!
This month, we’re proud to recognize Brian Harris for his initiative, teamwork, and commitment to supporting Dining Services Satellite Operations team.
Brian is someone who is always thinking ahead and looking for ways to help. Whether he is guiding others through a process, answering questions, helping prepare for a busy semester, or stepping in to support another unit, he consistently makes himself available wherever he is needed. In many cases, Brian recognizes what needs to be done and offers his assistance before anyone even has to ask.
His knowledge, reliability, and willingness to support colleagues across the department make him a true team player and a valuable resource to those around him. Brian’s proactive approach and “how can I help?” attitude demonstrate what collaboration and teamwork look like in action.
Thank you, Brian, for your dedication, dependability, and for always being willing to lend a hand. We appreciate everything you do for Dining Services!
During this year’s Pre-Opening Meeting, we recognized employees who received University Service Awards for reaching an incredible milestone of 25 to 35 years of service to the University of Maryland.
20 Years
- Jessica Shields
- Mirna Castellon
- Wassenu Jabe
- Selamawit Abebe
- Jason Millar
- Digna Machado
- Thomas Underwood
- Karen Kimmel
These milestones represent more than just years; they reflect decades of dedication, hard work, knowledge, and commitment to our university community. Throughout their careers, these employees have contributed to the growth and success of Dining Services while making a lasting impact on countless colleagues, students, and guests.
We are grateful for the experience, loyalty, and commitment each of these employees brings to our team. Please join us in congratulating and thanking our Service Award recipients for their many years of outstanding service to the University of Maryland!
Congratulations on this remarkable achievement!
Congratulations to employees who have recently started in a new position!
Start PD Week 2026 by taking a step back from your daily responsibilities and creating space for
intentional learning, reflection, and connection. This interactive kickoff session will introduce
the conference theme, Fall into Success: Learning, Leading, and Thriving Together, while
helping participants identify what they hope to gain from the week ahead. Through guided
reflection, small-group conversations, and practical planning activities, attendees will explore
their learning goals, consider where they want to focus their energy, and connect with colleagues
from across the University System of Maryland.
Registration Link
Join thousands of parents, families, and friends from around the country as we celebrate the
University of Maryland's 46th annual Family Weekend
Registration Link
Prevent Cross-Contamination
As we continue to welcome everyone back and our dining units get busier, it’s important to get back into good safety habits. A few simple reminders can help prevent injuries and keep everyone safe:
- Watch your step: Keep walkways, kitchens, and storage areas clear of boxes, cords, spills, and other trip hazards.
- Clean spills right away: Place a wet-floor sign in the area and make sure spills are cleaned promptly to prevent slips and falls.
- Lift safely: Bend at your knees, keep the load close to your body, and ask for help with heavy or awkward items.
- Use the right PPE: Wear required gloves, cut-resistant gloves, non-slip footwear, and other protective equipment for your task.
- Stay aware during busy periods: Avoid rushing, communicate when carrying hot or sharp items, and pay attention to the people working around you.
- Speak up about hazards: If you see unsafe equipment, damaged flooring, blocked exits, or another potential hazard, report it to your supervisor.
A safe semester starts with all of us. Take your time, stay alert, and look out for one another!