As we welcome November, I want to take a moment to reflect on the exciting events that brought our campus community together this past month. From the energy and school spirit of Homecoming to the fall festivities of Harvest Fest, it has been wonderful to see our students enjoying all that Dining Services has to offer. Harvest Fest was especially memorable, as students had the opportunity to explore offerings from different vendors, paint pumpkins, and celebrate the season. Thank you to everyone who helped make these events a success!
As we move into November, I also want to remind our employees that Health Benefits Open Enrollment is now open through November 13. This is an important opportunity to review your current benefits and make any necessary changes for the upcoming year. To prepare, please make sure you can access SPS Workday and gather any required documentation if you plan to add a dependent. I encourage everyone to take the time to review their options and make informed decisions about their benefits before the deadline.
Finally, with the holiday season quickly approaching, I hope each of you finds time to slow down, recharge, and enjoy meaningful moments with family and friends. This is also a season of gratitude, and I want to express my sincere appreciation for the hard work, dedication, and care you bring to Dining Services every day. Your efforts make a difference in the experiences of our students and the entire university community.
Thank you for all that you do, and I wish you and your loved ones a wonderful start to the holiday season!
This month’s Employee Spotlight goes to Kevin Eguizabal Escobar!
Known for his strong work ethic, dedication to providing exceptional service, and humble personality, Kevin consistently goes above and beyond to support his team and ensure daily operations run smoothly. His willingness to take initiative and commitment to excellence have made a lasting impression on those around him.
During a new employee's onboarding experience, they witnessed these qualities firsthand and were inspired to recognize his dedication, humility, and exceptional service. Even in a short period of time, Kevin made a positive impression through his dedication, willingness to help, and genuine humility. His actions demonstrate how everyday interactions can make a lasting impact on new team members and help create a welcoming and supportive work environment.
Thank you, Kevin, for leading by example and demonstrating what it means to be part of Maryland Dining Services. We appreciate all that you do!
During our recent Health Fair, our very own Executive Chef Eliza Bowden shared a delicious and nutritious take on a classic favorite with a live cooking demonstration featuring lentil taco filling! Attendees had the opportunity to learn about this plant-based alternative and visit an interactive station where they could build their own mini soft tacos and enjoy a taste.
The demonstration highlighted how simple, nutritious ingredients can be transformed into flavorful meals while encouraging healthy eating habits.
Culinary Training Tip: Cooking with Plant-Based Proteins
Lentils are a great source of plant-based protein and can be used as a flavorful alternative to ground meat in dishes like tacos, chili, and pasta sauces. When preparing lentils, remember to rinse them before cooking, monitor their texture to avoid overcooking, and use herbs and spices to build flavor.
Keep Learning: Explore how to incorporate more plant-based ingredients into everyday meals and create nutritious, flavorful options for our guests.
Prevent Cross-Contamination
As colder weather approaches, it's important to take extra precautions to stay safe both inside and outside the workplace. Winter weather can bring slippery sidewalks, wet floors, and freezing temperatures, increasing the risk of slips, trips, and falls.
Keep these winter safety tips in mind:
- Watch Your Step: Be cautious when walking on wet, icy, or snowy surfaces. Take smaller steps and avoid rushing.
- Wear Proper Footwear: Choose slip-resistant shoes with good traction, especially when entering and exiting buildings.
- Keep Floors Dry: Snow, ice, and rain can create slippery conditions near entrances. Clean up water promptly and report any hazards.
- Dress for the Weather: Wear appropriate layers when working outdoors or traveling between buildings.
- Report Unsafe Conditions: Notify your supervisor if you notice icy walkways, slippery entrances, or other winter-related hazards.
Remember: A few extra moments of caution can prevent an injury. Let's work together to keep our Dining Services team safe throughout the winter season!
Whether your brand new to Enneagram or curious to learn
more, this session will offer practical insights and a human-centered lens on motivation,
behavior and connection. Each participant completes an iEQ9 assessment before the
session and receives an individual report.
Register Here
Comprehensive training that provides the
information needed to recognize when a student is in crisis and the skills and resources to
respond effectively. Faculty and staff are invited to attend by registering for one of the
dates below. Please
Register Here
This training will assist you in supporting student
mental health by reviewing common student concerns, ways to communicate about
mental health with students, available mental health resources and how to refer them, and
methods of coping for everyone involved. All sessions are virtual unless otherwise
specified.
Register Here
The only constant in life is change. Learn about
common reactions and emotions that accompany change and transition and how to
successfully navigate them.
Register Here
This 16-hour, in-person training, delivered over four
consecutive days, is designed to equip DSA leaders with the knowledge and skills to
embed a restorative philosophy and practices within their departments. Through
interactive sessions, participants will explore foundational restorative justice principles,
including connectedness, peace, authenticity, accountability, healing and inclusion, and
learn to design and facilitate Tier 1 restorative circles, apply trauma-responsive practices
and foster a culture of community and belonging.
Be sure to check out other UMD Free Learning Resources opportunities as well!
RSVP here