Thank You!
We’re a community of educators, and that title of “educator” certainly extends beyond the classroom. Educators work behind the scenes to keep campus beautiful and ensure we all have the equipment and spaces we need to do our best. Educators enhance student experiences, uphold the University’s mission, vision, values, and traditions. And educators make West Chester University a place where employees and students feel safe, respected, and valued.
So, thank you for that. Thank you for what you’ve done and what you’re going to do. Thank you for working when the demand was heavy, for taking breaks when you needed them, and for trusting us to have your back.
- Christopher Fiorentino, President
Success!
No matter your title or division, you’ve played a vital role in the success of our students. Some roles are perhaps more obviously related to student success, but that’s why it’s important to recognize the ripple effect we can all have.
The point is – what you do matters here. This University does not function without all of us doing our part and working together.
I want you to know how appreciative I am of the work you have already done. I’m looking forward to the strides we’ll make over the next academic year.
- Dr. Jeff Osgood, Executive Vice President and Provost (Interim)
Employee Appreciation Events
During the 2023 Employee Appreciation events we celebrated Philadelphia and West Chester University, "The Places that Love You Back." These events are a sincere expression of appreciation to you, our colleagues, for your collective efforts towards student success. They are also a great opportunity for us to spend time celebrating each other and our successes. Thank you again "for all that you have done and all you are going to do." You are appreciated.
"My favorite artifacts were the old pasta making machines and artifacts from the Italian section of Philly!" - Jaime Whitcomb
Beyond the Bell Exhibition and Reception
We took selfies with a Rocky statue and then mingled at a catered reception at the historic Old Library with Rammy before a private tour of the WCU curated exhibition exploring the rich heritage of Philadelphia. There was something for everyone - sports, fashion, music, food, art and more!
If you couldn’t stop by learn more about the Beyond the Bell Exhibition
"It was great to see our campus community relaxing and celebrating after the close of the academic year. I can't wait to see the finished mural that we painted together." – Lisa O'Shea
Employee Appreciation Celebration
Thanks to the 700+ staff and faculty who attended this event! We hope that you had as much fun as we did. After a welcome from President Fiorentino and Interim Provost Jeff Osgood, we ate our way through Philadelphia enjoying mocktails served by our Ram Chefs, TastyKakes, and our very own Reading Terminal Market. We can’t forget the pretzels!
Philly Pretzel Factory Co-Founder and CEO, Dan DiZio, shared his story of perseverance along with a generous donation of 800 fresh soft pretzels. You can learn more about Dan and his Undercover Boss appearance.
Check out the 6ABC Action News feature on our Ram Chefs in action.
Be on the look for the commemorative mural that was painted by staff and faculty that will be unveiled on campus soon!
Didn't get a chance to celebrate with us? Contact Orgdev@wcupa.edu to obtain the free giveaway.
"It was fun to see people try new things! We cheered on Scott Sherman as he climbed a rock wall for the first time." - Sarah Mislick
Philly Sports & Fitness Fest
The Sports & Fitness Fest was filled with activities including group Zumba and cycle classes, colleagues braving the rock wall and competing in drop-in sports, and raffles. A free Phillies themed WCU shirt and boxed lunch made it an easy-going pop in event. As part of the appreciation event, our Campus Recreation partners signed up over 60 employees for a FREE summer membership. It’s not too late to take advantage of the membership and get to know our energetic and encouraging Rec Center staff. Check out the FREE Summer Bootcamp program being offered for staff and faculty.
Dan DiZio Philly Style Pretzels and Much More.
We enjoyed meeting the keynote speaker, Dan DiZio, Co-Founder and CEO of Philly Pretzel Factory. In his down to earth talk, Dan shared how his perseverance and passion lead to the creation of the world’s largest “Philly Style” soft pretzel bakery and a successful franchise company. Dan emphasized the importance of valuing others in the workplace and facing fear in moments of difficult decision making – inspiring messages for our Employee Appreciation event.
You can learn more about Dan and his Undercover Boss appearance.
Share Your Employee Appreciation Fun Memories!
Did you take a photo with the Rocky statue or Rammy? Do you have photobooth shots? Did you take pictures on your phone? Upload your photos along with your name and a description of your favorite memory. You may see it on this page or upcoming marketing materials.
Share a Memory
What do you like most about working at WCU?
Employee Appreciation Press Releases
RAM CHEF COOKING PROGRAM EXPANDS
WCU’S 2023 EMPLOYEE APPRECIATION CELEBRATING
CONNECTION TO PHILADELPHIA
SPECIAL THANKS TO OUR CAMPUS PARTNERS for their contributions to the events!
Dr. Michael Di Giovine (Anthropology & Sociology)
Dr. Jeanie Subach (Nutrition)
Professor Emeritus John Baker (Art & Design)
Associate Professor David Jones (Art & Design)
Associate Professor Tom Haughey (Theatre & Dance)
Jazz Quintet Students - Dominick DeStefano, Maeve Sullivan, Zhi Yong Tan, Nathan Hansen,
and Craig DiGiamarino
Beyond the Bell Student Co-Curators - Alden Ritchey, Katie Dick, Jacqueline Armao
Student Artists - Allison Mcalonie, Leah Crespy
Maria Monachino (Theatre & Dance)
Human Resources Department
The Office of the President
University Marketing and Communications
New Street Catering
Employee & Labor Relations
Facilities Plant Operations
The College of Arts and Humanities
University Libraries – IMC
Campus Recreation
The College of Health Sciences
IS&T - Digital Media Center
Custodial Services
Business Services
