Yale Hospitality Staff thanked with cheers and chocolate

It’s nice to be recognized. Recently, members of the Yale Police Department (YPD) did just that by visiting all 14 residential college dining halls to thank their staff. Yale Police Officer Greg Swiantek coordinated a program to celebrate and thank all of Yale’s essential Hospitality staff who worked on campus throughout the pandemic. Gathering a few team members to join him, including YPD service dog Heidi, Greg gave thankyou cards and bags of chocolate to all.

Each visit was a surprise that was coordinated with the department’s manager. The YPD team was greeted with smiles and some happy tears. Staff told of their experiences coming into work and the initial fear about the pandemic, and constant concern for the safety of themselves and their families. Heidi was a huge hit; everyone loved the chocolates and the hand-written notes. “Like most Yale Public Safety staff, Hospitality workers are essential to the campus and needed to come on campus these past 14 months.

Greg worked closely with Bob Sullivan, Senior Director Residential Dining, who attended several of these events. “What an amazing program! The staff was thrilled to be recognized by the Yale Police Department. On behalf of a very grateful Yale Hospitality, I want to thank you with all of our hearts,” said Bob.

As one of the department’s community outreach officers, Greg along with Officer Martha Cedeno-Ross work closely with the Yale and New Haven Communities. The program initially started with a visit to the vaccination staff at the Lanman Center and grew. This program continues; next to thank all of Yale’s 500+ custodians.

Special thanks to:

• Heidi (woof)
• Captain Von Narcisse
• Christelle Ramos
• Officer Greg Swiantek
• Officer Rich Simons
• Bob Sullivan
• Sergeant Sabrina Woods
• And all the staff and managers of Yale Residential Dining!