Bon Appetít employee, Aracely Alfaro, earned regional recognition for her outstanding customer service and commitment to excellence as Concordia’s weekday cafeteria cashier

Alfaro won the award for the “Superhero of Excellent Customer Service” of the Pacific Northwest, California, and parts of Utah. It is part of the campaign by Compass Group North America. Each year, Compass Group NA holds its annual “Night of the Stars” Gala to honor its top employees. This year’s theme was “Superheroes.”

Laura Hodge, Café Manager, describes Alfaro as “the face of The Caf.” Hodge and the management team submitted Alfaro’s nomination in April of 2017. “The company gives us an opportunity to help our staff shine,” said Hodge.

Originally from El Salvador, Alfaro is a native Spanish speaker. However, this does not hinder her unique ability to connect with the hundreds of students and faculty that come through the cafeteria doors every day. Alfaro makes customer experience a priority with simple gestures like walking those who are new to The Caf to familiarize them with the different stations.  Bon Appetit management regularly receives comment cards reporting that a brief interaction with Alfaro “made their day.”

Alfaro was surprised to have received the award. “Mainly God gave [the award] to me, but it was also my boss, Laura,” she said with a smile.

“All of the faculty and staff on campus know her and most of the students know her name within the first few weeks of starting school,” said Hodge. “I love seeing the senior students that come by the cafe the last week of classes to make sure they say goodbye to her before they graduate.” Hodge said that some students even give Alfaro cards and gifts.

Alfaro traveled to Orlando for a well-deserved, all-expenses-paid vacation and to receive her “Superhero” award on October 18.  Stop by The Caf during breakfast or lunch and be sure to offer your congratulations!

Tags: Alexander Carr

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