Hopkins Dining staff member Marie Wilson celebrated her 50th work anniversary on Aug. 30, bringing together friends, family, and co-workers to mark the momentous occasion with speeches and, of course, food.
Wilson estimates that during her time at Hopkins she has fed approximately 100,000 students. She witnessed the tenures of five university presidents and outlasted many dining contractors before JHU's switch to a university-operated model in 2022.
"Marie, your dedication and commitment to Johns Hopkins University are truly remarkable," said Joudy Kirlew, food service manager for retail operations, during Wilson's 50th anniversary celebration. "Your hard work, your kindness to our students, and your teamwork have made this place feel like a second home to so many of us. You've seen it all, done it all, and yet you still show up every day with a smile that lights a room up. So here's to you, Marie, our superstar cashier, the person who challenges us to be our very best, and the one who has made the last 50 years an incredible journey. We don't know how you do it, but we are grateful that you do it."
Image credit: Will Kirk / Johns Hopkins University
Wilson also shared remarks at the celebration, making it clear that she wasn't retiring just yet.
"I enjoyed working with the students," Wilson said. "I look forward to seeing them every day, and I'll always continue to do my best."
Co-workers describe Wilson as a cornerstone of the Hopkins Dining team.
"Marie has a loving heart," said Sarah Robinson, who started working at Hopkins 44 years ago. "She cares about the kids here, and she cares about her co-workers. Over the years I have seen Marie help so many students who really needed someone to talk to. Marie was really there to help them."
Added Marlene Williams, "Marie greets all the students and looks out for everybody. She's in uniform every day and always has a smile on her face."
During the 50th anniversary celebration, Wilson was presented with a certificate of appreciation, a plaque honoring her 50 years of service, and a bouquet of flowers.
"Our students are still learning who they are, but they have that consistency of knowing you," said Rachelle Hernandez, vice provost for student affairs. "You made it possible for them to feel like they had a home away from home."
Added Matt Moss, assistant vice provost for Hopkins Dining and auxiliary services, "We are excited for you to reach this milestone. We're excited for the efforts that you're going to continue to give. We know that you turn up every single day and give 100%. And when it is the time that you want to retire, then we will be so happy for you and your family."
Image caption: From right to left: Matt Moss, Marie Wilson, and Michelle Mooney
Image credit: Will Kirk / Johns Hopkins University
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