Facilities Magazine | 2025

EVERY SCHOOL DESERVES EXPERT CARE

I’m honored to introduce myself as the new CEO of SSC Services for Education. Joining such a talented and dedicated team, I’m inspired by SSC’s commitment to excellence and innovation in educational facilities management. This magazine reflects just a fraction of that dedication—our team members are truly the backbone of every success.

2024 has been a remarkable year for SSC, with our associates’ hard work and passion driving each milestone. As we look toward 2025, our focus remains on delivering exceptional service to every school and community we serve while creating growth and opportunity for our associates. Inside these pages, you’ll find stories that highlight the dedication and skill of our team members, whose commitment ensures SSC continues to set the standard in our industry.

I am excited to see all we’ll achieve together in the years ahead.

- Darryl LomaxCEO, SSC

20 24

SSC Year in Review

1,142,341

Students impacted at partner schools

9,843

Online training courses completed

143,610

Hours of safety training

199,714 5,976

Water bottles diverted from the landfill by using recycled floor pads

Autonomous mobile robot work hours

Graduates of career advancement courses

1,050

Skilled trades training hours completed

440 563

Internal promotions

400+

209,793 9,000

157,862

Athletic fields Completed work orders Managed acres Preventative maintenance hours

Our Brightest Stars

SSC’s Award-Winning Managers

Compass Night of Stars is an annual celebration that brings together award winners from across the country to celebrate each sector and their teams’ success. This year, we had an overwhelming number of incredible nominations for each award category.

Four National Winners were selected for celebration at the Compass-wide Compass Night of Stars event in Orlando. Twelve additional Regional Be a Star Winners were recognized on a company-wide Town Hall hosted by SSC leadership. Join us in celebrating our 2024 Be a Star Winners!

National Winners

Jennifer Mitchell

Salaried Manager of the Year, Higher Education

Jennifer joined SSC in 2012 when Texas A&M University outsourced its custodial services. At the time, she was a custodial supervisor, and like many of her team members, she worried about job security and benefits. SSC reassured the team they would retain employees who wanted to stay, with some even receiving better benefits. During a transition meeting with A&M and SSC, Jennifer talked with a man who showed genuine interest in her role, her team, and her concerns. Later, she discovered she had been speaking with the president of SSC, and that moment solidified her belief she was joining a company that truly valued its people.

Within a year, Jennifer was promoted from custodial supervisor to assistant manager, and shortly after, she accepted a unit director role at Texas State in San Marcos.

Her hard work, dedication, and ability to build strong teams led her to her position as regional director of operations.

Jennifer was recognized as our Higher Education Salaried Manager of the Year, an honor that left her completely surprised. Reflecting on her journey, Jennifer expressed gratitude for the support from leaders like Derrick Parker and Ted Dawson, who helped her grow from a lower supervisory position to a high-profile leadership role. Winning the award was a humbling experience, and she attributes her success to advocating for herself, working hard, and having the trust and support of SSC. Jennifer’s passion for her work and hunger to succeed continues to drive her forward, inspiring those around her.

Chris Osuch

Salaried Manager of the Year, Texas A&M

Chris began his career in facilities after moving to Texas, initially working at Camden Trust before transitioning to SSC Services for Education at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi. With licenses in HVAC and electrical, Chris quickly moved up the ranks from maintenance manager to assistant director.

Over his eight-year journey with SSC, Chris has proven himself through leadership, particularly during challenging transitions with new campus leadership.

His ability to build trust and foster strong client relationships has been instrumental in his team’s success.

Chris is also passionate about mentorship, regularly guiding new associates and bench directors, ensuring they understand SSC’s core values and culture. He thrives in the ever-changing environment of his island campus and is deeply committed to supporting its students, faculty, and staff.

Chris enjoys spending time with his kids outside of work, snowboarding, drawing, and working on cars. Chris remains humbled, attributing his recognition of Salaried Manager of the Year to his commitment to mentoring and teamwork.

Yolanda Blackwell Impact Award

Yolanda began her journey with SSC in 1998, motivated by her servant’s heart and a solid commitment to supporting her family. Yolanda’s dedication and work ethic quickly propelled her into full-time roles, and she soon set her sights on becoming a supervisor. Her resilience was tested early on as she balanced her work responsibilities with caring for her family, particularly during her father’s illness.

Yolanda’s leadership shined as she managed multiple locations within Richland School District 2. Her ability to build strong relationships with her team and clients has been pivotal to her success. Known for her hands-on approach, Yolanda ensures her team operates like a family, always fostering a sense of community and support. Over the years, Yolanda has held several positions: site manager, unit director, operations manager, and now resident regional manager. She has never forgotten her roots, often stepping in to help her team, always leading by example. Her leadership has has resulted in numerous recognitions, with several schools under her supervision winning prestigious awards, including Palmetto’s Finest Award, Red Carpet, and Blue Ribbon distinctions.

For Yolanda, leadership is about more than titles - it’s about creating an environment where everyone feels valued and empowered.

With over two decades of experience, she continues to leave her mark on SSC, driven by her mission to maintain the SSC standard of excellence in everything she does.

Sohn Stancell

Living the

Brand Award

Sohn is a seasoned leader with 26 years of dedicated service at SSC. He is known for his exceptional ability to communicate SSC’s values, mission, and goals with clarity and enthusiasm, ensuring both team members and external stakeholders embrace SSC’s culture. Sohn consistently serves as a role model, inspiring teams with his infectious positivity and deep belief in SSC’s mission.

Sohn’s commitment to talent development is a cornerstone of his leadership style.

His passion for mentoring and coaching is evident in his daily interactions, where he provides comprehensive onsite training and continuous support to team members, helping many advance into leadership roles within the company. Known for his readiness to assist, Sohn is always the first to step up when additional training or guidance is needed, demonstrating his unwavering dedication to his team.

At the University of Mary Hardin-Baylor (UMHB), where Sohn has managed his account for 16 years, he has cultivated strong relationships with both clients and the university’s leadership. Frequently receiving appreciation from the university’s president, Sohn’s reputation for delivering high-quality services has solidified SSC’s standing as a trusted partner.

Sohn is also deeply committed to operational excellence. He ensures all tasks align with SSC’s policies and procedures, regularly conducting audits to identify and implement improvements. His strategic approach to managing operations and his proactive pursuit of innovation have driven SSC’s growth and operational efficiency at UMHB.

Sohn’s contributions extend beyond the workplace. His involvement with programs for individuals with special needs highlights his dedication to giving back to the community and helping them gain valuable work experience on campus. A pillar of professionalism, integrity, and passion, Sohn continues to be an exemplary ambassador for SSC.

Regional Winners

Salaried Manager of the Year

Gary Lounsbury

Facilities Director, Belmont Abbey, Higher Education

Marshall Darnell

Facilities Project Manager, Corporate Support

Living the Brand Award

Allin Stevenson

Unit Director, Jackson

State University, Higher Education

Sherry Bailey

Operations Support Specialist, Higher Education, Corporate Support

Impact Award

Kathryn Tarnaski

Unit Director, Oakland University, Higher Education

Chris Metcalf

Grounds Project Manager, Corporate Support

Troy Huhtala

Resident Regional Manager, K-12 Wisconsin

Asad Munir

Facilities Director, HSC Dallas Maintenance, Texas A&M

Chakakhan

Watson

Operations Manager, Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools, K-12

Richard Longley

Facilities Director, College Station, Texas A&M

Willie Moultrie

Unit Director, Cartersville City Schools, K-12

Charles Darby

Regional Director of Operations, Maintenance, College Station, Texas A&M

Women Lead Strong

Advice from Industry Experts

Facilities management is a vast and ever-changing industry that covers everything from janitorial work to specialized trades. Despite its variety, it’s still primarily male-dominated.

The International Facility Management Association reports women only account for 25% of the workforce. However, the tide is slowly turning as more women find their calling in facilities management and seize new opportunities in the sector.

At SSC, we are proud to say OVER 51% of our workforce is made up of women who lead strong in their roles. As they’ve grown in the industry, they’ve each faced unique challenges and learned how to adapt to an ever-changing field.

Barbara Hatchel Chakakhan Watson

Shanna Graham

Meet the Team: Highlighting Women Who Are Experts in Every Line of Service

Shanna Graham HVAC Technician

Shanna was interested in skilled trades from a young age. Her father was an electrician and also worked in the oil fields. As a result, she was exposed early to trades work. At the beginning of her career, external pressure pushed her to pursue a more traditional path, one where she went to college for several years for psychology before realizing she’d be happier pursuing her passion.

Shanna joined the SSC team working in the warehouse and waited until a spot opened up for an HVAC apprenticeship. She chose HVAC because she has always been interested in an engaging, interactive field that would keep her on her toes.

“Out of all the trades, HVAC has a bit of everything mixed in: it focuses on air conditioning and refrigeration, but you still have to know a bit of electricity and plumbing as well.”

Chakakhan Watson Custodial Services

“I love my job. I know my job. It’s a different role, and I work alongside many other managers now and it has its challenges. Overall, throughout my over 18 years in facilities, it has been nothing but great because you truly learn something different every day.”

Chakakhan started her career in facilities as a frontline associate in 2005. She was a custodian for over 10 years and worked at several SSC accounts. In 2016, she was promoted to supervisor, and after six short months in that role, she entered the Manager in Training Program. Her experiences in the MIT program allowed her to level up her leadership and prepare for her current role: operations manager. Today, she oversees one of SSC’s largest K-12 accounts.

Each role in her career has been vastly different – but they have all built on one another – and each experience has set her up for success.

Barbara Hatchel Grounds Management

Barbara’s beginnings in grounds management happened when she was 7 years old. Her neighbor, Mr. Church, was a corn farmer. One year, he gave her some corn from his field and told her to plant it, reassuring her it would grow. “So, I did. My mother had a garden, and we planted it. Sure enough, up came my corn. After that, I worked on our yard for years throughout high school, but that’s really all the experience I had.”

She worked on her own yard through high school, then went to college to get a degree in radiation therapy. She quickly realized her new pursuit wouldn’t make her happy, and she returned to what she knew best: the outdoors. Barbara worked in a parks and recreation department, then transitioned to working for a school district. In October of 2021, Barbara attended the PGMS National Convention in Kentucky, and from there, George Bernardon, SSC’s previous VP of grounds management, brought her onto the team.

Barbara joined SSC as a bench manager, but quickly transitioned into a permanent position at Texas A&M University – College Station. Today, she manages the fine horticulture crew and oversees high-visual areas on campus.

How

did you learn everything you need to know to confidently work and lead in facilities management?

Shanna: Apprenticeships come with hands-on training and learning. When you start, you are more of a helper. You’ll be watching other technicians do the work, handing them tools, and listening to them explain why they are doing things, how they are doing things, and how they troubleshoot to figure out what’s wrong.

After you’ve watched for a while, the technicians training you will start handing you the tools and directing you on how to do it yourself. Eventually, they’ll just be with you and help you with questions. It’s not a staged learning process. It’s always handson, and you will constantly be learning.

Chakakhan: I’ve been very lucky working in facilities. I have had great managers and supervisors over me who never let me slack off or face anything alone. I’ve surrounded myself with mentors and leaders, and my experience in this industry all comes back to the people who support me and surround me. Without their support, I wouldn’t have made it this far. SSC offers the practical tools you need to learn. We have MyLMS, which is one of the best programs out there because they have classes and programs you can take anywhere, any time to stay up to date.

What strengths or qualities help you succeed as a woman leader in the facilities industry?

Barbara: My mentors taught me to never forget where I came from. I started at the ground level and worked my way up and down. I try to remember that because I used to be in that position, and I remember what it was like. It’s a nature-nurture thing for me. I’m not going to be mother hen, but I will always have a good relationship with my crew. I also know sometimes it’s easier to build someone from the ground up than to change someone who has been in the industry for 20 years, so when new people come in not knowing everything, I see their potential to turn into strong leaders. We go step by step; I teach them how to do things, and we work together.

Chakakhan: The company you work for makes a difference. Prioritize working somewhere that you feel comfortable talking to different leaders and asking for advice and perspective. Don’t be afraid to ask for help, get really good at listening, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes – they’re going to happen. But if you don’t believe in yourself, [your team] isn’t going to believe in you, either.

What advice would you give to other women who want to pursue a career in facilities management?

Barbara: Refuse to be intimidated, and be a student of life. I print out articles from horticulture magazines, Texas Gardener, and Texas Seeds, and I have two notebooks full of just two or three-page articles. If you have a rainy day and need to get your hours in, sit down and read – start learning things. Gather all of the information you possibly can. Our world is a huge lab – try things; if you make a mistake, remember what you did and try changing something. It’s all trial and error – so don’t be afraid to try.

Shanna: Entering the trades is definitely not what I thought it would be. At first, I thought I would get a lot of issues with me being a woman in trades, but it’s different now. Women in trades is a stigma. I really think that stigma comes from the outside point of view, rather than the inside point of view, because if you go into the industry and you put in the work, everyone will be supportive. I’ve never had anybody try to tell me that I can’t do it or that it’s too hard because I am a girl.

Barbara, Shanna, and Chakakhan excel in their respective roles, offering valuable advice to other women – whether in the industry or considering a career change into facilities management. As the field grows more diverse each year, the women of SSC are proud to lead with expertise and passion, inspiring others to follow in their footsteps and join this dynamic industry.

refuse to be intimidated

“Go for it! There are so many opportunities in this field that women do not typically seek out, but they are incredibly rewarding because we bring new perspectives to the table.”

- Catherine MerrittRegional Vice President, SSC

“Embrace the diversity and opportunities the field offers. As doors are opening for women, there is a chance to reset expectations and help shape the industry. Women entering the field can help create an environment that encourages more women to join and thrive.”

- Jennifer MitchellRegional Director of Operations, SSC

“Keep an open mind. Soak up all of the information you are given. Remember, you learn something new every day, and if you don’t, you’re probably not paying attention.”

- Deanne KingAssistant Facilities Director, SSC

“Embrace change. Our industry is always advancing for the better; don’t limit yourself and always be willing to grow.”

- Cassandra ScottUnit Director, SSC

Facilities management offers boundless career opportunities, and it’s inspiring to see so many women stepping up and leading the way within SSC. In my 33 years in the field, I’ve witnessed firsthand the incredible support and growth the facilities industry and SSC provide. Starting as a receptionist and now serving as VP of human resources, my journey is a testament to the limitless potential within this career path.

The message we want to share with all women is simple: if you’re willing to learn and embrace new challenges, there’s no limit to how far you can go. Facilities management is a dynamic field where leadership, problemsolving, and operational expertise come together to create meaningful impact. At SSC, we’re dedicated to fostering an environment where women can thrive, whether they’re just beginning their careers or considering a change. By providing mentorship, clear career pathways, and a culture that values diverse perspectives, we’re building an inclusive environment that is deeply invested in each person’s success.

To the women in facilities today and those yet to come, I encourage you to take that leap—your unique perspective is not only welcome but essential in shaping the future of this industry. The facilities field is eager for your insights and offers a supportive space where you can truly excel and lead.

- Shannon ThorntonVice President of Human Resources, SSC

It’s been a great year at SSC, and at the heart of our success are all the people behind the scenes who serve our partner schools with excellence.

Services Appreciation Week is a week dedicated to celebrating the SSC team members who help us create clean, safe, and impactful learning environments for students, teachers and school staff in our communities. Each year, our managers put on special events and celebrations to recognize their teams for all of their hard work. Check out some photos from this year’s Services Appreciation Week celebrations.

to the people who make the magic happen.

Hamilton Southeastern Schools

South Bend Community School Corporation

Westfield Washington Schools

Texas State University

UT Southwestern Medical Center

Texas A&M - HSC Houston

Simulation Training

Safer and More Accessible Learning for Facilities Management

By Nickie Dwyer

Everyone learns in different ways. The challenge for many businesses is finding a strategy that allows each associate to learn well and retain what they have learned over time.

Simulation-based training is commonplace in healthcare, aviation, and even military and defense training. Recently, we’ve tapped into its power within facilities management and skilled trades – and the benefits are proving to be unmatched.

What Is SimulationBased Training?

Simulation training presents individuals with immersive, interactive scenarios that mirror tasks and challenges they will be presented with on the job. In healthcare, this can look like presenting a medical student with a simulation “patient” who presents with an array of symptoms and requiring the student to diagnose and treat the patient (with no risk to a real human being). In facilities management, the concept is the same: associates are presented with a task they will be required to perform, in an environment that mirrors the real one they will be in – without any risk to the learner, equipment, or facilities.

As the industry-leading experts in educational facilities management, it’s no surprise that education is at the forefront of everything we do. At SSC, we have seen tremendous impact of simulation training in our daily operations, both for frontline associates and our apprenticeship program for skilled trades.

How It Works: Tapping into Technology

Simulation training can be done entirely in person, with re-creations of environments and tasks; however, it is more applicable and practical when delivered through technology.

Picture This: An associate must learn the proper procedure for replacing a ceiling tile in an office – start to finish. A simulation training scenario walks them through each step, from the moment they open the office door to the cleanup after they have completed the task.

Technology-based simulation training allows businesses to develop custom scenarios team members will encounter in their day-to-day jobs, simulating everything from location specifics to tools required for the job.

Nickie Dwyer is the training manager for SSC and has 15 years of experience in the industry.

Simulation training can be done entirely in person, with re-creations of environments and tasks.

Virtual Reality Elements

In addition to web-based simulation training, many programs offer a virtual reality component, complete with VR goggles like what you would see in an arcade. VR truly immerses employees into the test environment, allowing them to “walk around” their space, use their hands to interact with tools and materials, and effectively train in a real-world scenario, with no risk associated with their mistakes.

Misconceptions About VR Training

“VR makes me sick. How am I supposed to train for my job using it?”

When you talk about VR, people automatically visualize the funny moments where Grandpa runs into a TV, or they recall getting sick on a virtual reality rollercoaster. Those instances are fast-moving virtual reality events in which your brain and body wouldn’t feel “safe” because they are not replicating everyday activities.

Facilities management VR training is slow-paced, with no rapidly moving environments or scenes. When using VR for facilities management training, you are simply visualizing yourself walking into a library, identifying an air duct, walking over to it, and repairing it – virtually.

Safety Benefits of SimulationBased Training in Facilities

Beyond staying up to date with the latest technology, there are many practical benefits to utilizing simulation-based and VR training in facilities management.

Safety is a key concern for facilities managers when training new associates. With our VR training programs, every simulation and knowledge check has safety procedures built in. These knowledge checks and safety procedures reinforce muscle memory in learners, helping them to implement the task in the real world with precision. Simulation training also allows for risk-free trial and error. Team members can have the confidence to learn in a way where they can make mistakes and learn from them without any real-world effects.

For instance, in facilities maintenance, team members can use simulation training to replace plumbing systems without the risk of bursting a pipe or flooding a building. Team members can also rewire electrical systems without the concern of electrocuting themselves. For associates who learn better by taking a hands-on approach, this is a great way for them to dive in without risking their own safety, the safety of others, or potentially causing damage to facilities or equipment.

Another common misconception is you need a large, empty room or open space to successfully engage with virtual reality training. The reality? You can safely do VR training seated or in a small space (5x5 or 7x7 feet).

Images from the Interplay Learning Platform

The Practical Side: Training and Reporting

Technology-based training is an investment into your people. There is a financial commitment, but smart scheduling and rotations allow you to utilize the technology to train a large number of associates effectively and efficiently.

With simulation training, it’s essential to build out a schedule – who will be using the technology, when is their time block, and what are they expected to accomplish within that window? While associates scheduled for the technology are utilizing it, others can continue learning through traditional methods, including working alongside their managers or a fellow associate in the field.

For the virtual reality element, the training style is similar: Assign associates to blocks of time to utilize the goggles you have available. You don’t need a massive quantity of VR goggles or simulation training subscriptions – but rather a plan for when team members will receive the trainings according to their personal goals and the organization’s needs.

While different programs and technologies will come with different offerings, some of the most common reporting features employers will appreciate include:

Setting Goals & Measuring Organizational Impact

In addition to continued development for associates, it’s essential to determine what the business impact of a new training method is or could be. As employers incorporate simulation training, reasonable goals should be set in tandem.

What milestones are you looking for? At SSC, we track time spent on each work order that matches up to a simulation training scenario, and the number of recalls that occur after a work order has been resolved. Improvements in those numbers can correlate with training success. Regardless of what you measure –be sure to set reasonable goals and choose a milestone that you can point back to the data.

• Completion Rates – Track the percentage of assigned training modules that each associate has completed, providing a clear measure of engagement and progress.

• Pass/Fail Recaps – Monitor how many attempts an associate has made on a specific scenario, along with their success or failure rates, to assess competency and improvement over time.

• Lifetime Statistics – View overall company data on hours of training completed, as well as data on a specific associate’s progress over time.

Pro Tip: Some simulation training platforms offer tech that can incentivize training. As associates complete courses or hours of training, they can earn “points” redeemable for gift cards, prizes, and more. When choosing a company to work with for simulation training, dig into additional details, such as incentivized training, to add additional value for your associates.

As technology continues to improve and innovate, it’s important for employers to lean into change. Simulation and VR training are only becoming more popular and prevalent, and the benefits extend far beyond ease of use. The goal of any training program should be retained knowledge and improved operations – and the use of these programs make it possible for employees to grow and employers to see tangible changes in both associate performance and business operations.

Our teams across the country are unified by these standards, and our partners have come to know and expect a quality of service unmatched in the industry. If your organization is noticing frequent client complaints, inconsistent service or team members failing to meet standards, evaluate the process you have in place and consider additional certifications to add value to your program.

Record-Setting Summer

Stadium Facilities Management at Texas A&M University

Summer 2024 was monumental for Texas A&M University, with the first international soccer match ever hosted at Kyle Field on June 8, and a George Strait concert on June 15 that set a record for the largest ticketed concert ever held in the U.S.

It’s no surprise these events take months, even years, of substantial planning and preparation. As the facilities management provider at Texas A&M University, our teams are well-versed in campus events, activities, and operations – and the unique requirements each brings.

Mexico vs Brazil International Soccer Friendly

Attendance: 85,249

Custodians: 105

Maintenance Technicians: 20

Get those steps in! Our custodial director of operations walked 21,500 steps in the stadium that day.

Challenge: FastTracking “Summer Downtime” at Kyle Field

Summer is typically a quieter time at Kyle Field – but this year was a different scenario. With both the soccer friendly and concert coming to campus in June, there was a significant need for an expedited maintenance timeline to have Kyle Field looking its best.

Everything from utility checks to individual walkthroughs of each suite in the stadium had to be moved up to ensure each fan had the best experience.

Solution: Expedited Maintenance Timeline

At the start of the summer, Maintenance Director Clayton Gummo began to evaluate maintenance that typically takes place at the end of summer, and moved up items on the timeline that would help prepare the stadium for the influx of visitors coming to College Station earlier than football season.

Meetings about the soccer friendly and concert started a year prior to the event, but they really ramped up three months before. We started taking a deeper dive into the utility plant, evaluating utilities inside and outside of the stadium, and determining the needs for each specific event in terms of electricity, water, and key functions for team spaces. The reality is that it was an entirely different layout for both events –compared to one another, and a normal gamed ay at Kyle Field - so we took great care to make sure everyone coming to town, from players and spectators to music lovers, had a great experience.” - Clayton Gummo

Challenge: Early Entry for Fans

For the soccer friendly, the most significant difference for our teams was the entry time for the event.

On a normal college football game day at Kyle Field, doors open to fans 90 minutes prior to kickoff.

Support teams anticipated spectators would need additional time to orient themselves inside the stadium. Early entry was needed for these individuals to explore their surroundings and appreciate all Kyle Field has to offer – without missing part of the game they traveled to see.

Solution: Early Arrival and Advance Planning

For the soccer friendly, doors opened a staggering four hours before the match began.

This decision was by design – many of the spectators came from different states, if not different countries.

On a normal game day, many of our team members arrive approximately one hour before gates open. To accommodate early entry times, a portion of our team arrived four hours before gates opened to ensure the stadium was clean, all utilities were in working order, and any last-minute preparations were taken care of.

Beyond that, SSC managers were on-site and on call beginning as early as 6 a.m. on event day to ensure someone was available for any urgent requests, changes, or unexpected problems.

George Strait: The King at Kyle Field

Attendance: 110,905

Custodians: 115

Maintenance Technicians: 20

Get those steps in! Our custodial director of operations walked 28,750 steps in the stadium that day.

Challenge: Extended On-Site Preparations

Our team had just seven days to reset the stadium from 85,000 visitors to a concert venue that needed to hold over 110,000 people.

The day after the soccer friendly, an event crew began building the stage – a feat that took over six of the seven days of preparation. There were also countless production crew members on-site setting up and testing sound, lights, special effects, and more for the show. Extra foot traffic in the stadium meant our team needed to be on top of their game as they prepared the stadium for the next event – including caring for spaces occupied by prep teams on a continued basis throughout the week.

Solution: Extra Coverage and Flexible Teams

In addition to being responsible for a full stadium reset ahead of the George Strait concert, our team had the added challenge of caring for additional spaces during setup.

As the stage and other key performance equipment was assembled, the SSC team removed trash, cleaned the field area after crew meals, and performed regular cleanings to ensure even the stadium and setup crew saw Kyle Field looking its best.

While the custodial team was working to clean, the maintenance team was busy completing their own reset checklist. In partnership with the athletic department and event crew, the maintenance team made sure they had all of the utilities, water, supplies, and tools they needed for their tasks.

Team members had staggered shifts throughout the week, with some beginning as early as 4 a.m. and others ending as late as 11 p.m. leading up to the event.

Having associates on-site at all times allowed our teams to properly respond to the needs of the A&M team and George’s prep crew.

Challenge: Foot Traffic Patterns and Timed Access Restrictions

In addition to having back-of-house areas occupied by George Strait and his team, our teams were restricted access throughout prep week and the day of the concert for security purposes. Because there was seating on the field, a new foot traffic pattern posed an additional challenge.

To date, there had not been an event of this size with spectators seated on the field.

Ingress and egress points were different, and fans flowed through different areas of the stadium they wouldn’t normally have access to. The hallway leading to our SSC offices was also set to be turned into a space for temporary restrooms, which meant that at specific moments, the hallway would be nearly impossible to navigate.

Any time George Strait or his team needed to move locations, portions of the stadium would shut down to fans and staff to ensure a safe, fast path.

Solution: Walkthroughs and Logistical Backup Plans

Situations such as these could have easily derailed the team, but in the weeks leading up to event day, they took measures to ensure they could get everywhere they needed to go, no matter what part of the concert was closed to foot traffic.

Our custodial and maintenance teams conducted pre-event walkthroughs to plan for high traffic or limited access moments. They needed to answer the question: “How do we get to the things we need, with the most minimal interruption?”

A high level of preparation allowed our teams to provide excellent service – responding to each issue that came up in a timely manner.

Each level of the stadium had a designated team lead to look for to resolve any issues that came up. Associates were all prepped with plans for their level, specific moments to be prepared for, and alternate pathways in case of access interruption.

At the end of the day, in custodial and maintenance operations, no feedback from event attendees is often the best feedback we can get. It means our teams did their jobs well and created an exceptional fan experience — entirely behind the scenes.

“You hear about things going wrong at events all the time – whether it’s the lights going out, or restrooms with overflowing trash. When you have over 100,000 people in a venue, all it takes is a tweet of a full trashcan to spark backlash. We didn’t see any of that. In our line of business, we don’t get noticed as much … but when things don’t go wrong, that’s actually our reward.”

- AJ SimsCustodial Unit Director, SSC

“We take pride in knowing we’ve taken care of the behind-the-scenes issues, because there are issues when these events happen – but they didn’t interrupt anyone’s fan experience. We’re not making the news, but we’re making everyone’s experience here at Kyle Field a heck of a lot better.”

- Clayton GummoMaintenance Operations Manager, SSC

What truly sets our company apart is our people’s dedication, adaptability, and commitment. This summer, they were faced with an incredible challenge - transforming a stadium from hosting 85,000 visitors for a soccer match into a concert venue for over 110,000 attendees in just seven days.

Our team didn’t just meet expectations - they exceeded them. From managing the logistics of increased foot traffic to maintaining cleanliness and readiness in areas occupied by production crews, our staff stayed focused, flexible, and diligent. They worked alongside event teams, often in fast-paced, high-pressure environments, to ensure the stadium was in top condition for both events.

Moments like these highlight the true strength of our team. Their ability to adapt quickly, work efficiently, and deliver high-quality results speaks volumes about their pride in their work. We are fortunate to have such dedicated professionals who embody our company’s values and are committed to excellence in everything they do. Our team’s skill and dedication allow us to handle any challenge with confidence, no matter how complex.

- Richard GentryDivision President, Texas A&M University, SSC

Maximize Your ROI for Autonomous Mobile Robots

AS FEATURED IN CLEANING & MAINTENANCE MANAGEMENT MAGAZINE

By Catherine Merritt

Key performance indicators can determine if AMRs are a good fit for your facility.

As autonomous mobile robot (AMR) options become more abundant and cost-effective each year, organizations are increasingly considering the purchase of this equipment to streamline various tasks within their facilities.

However, the mere acquisition of AMRs does not guarantee success.

Although AMRs might appear to be the perfect solution for your facility, it’s crucial to rein in your excitement for innovation to first analyze their benefits through the lens of a pragmatist. In doing so, you will soon realize the successful implementation of an AMR program depends on aligning key performance indicators (KPIs) with your expectations for the autonomous equipment.

Uncover your expectations by setting clear and measurable objectives that reflect the intended benefits of an AMR program. These benefits can include increased efficiency, higher quality of services rendered, reduced operational costs, and enhanced safety.

Catherine Merritt is a regional vice president of higher education services for SSC and has 18 years of experience in facilities management.

Essential Considerations

After setting your expectations, consider what you must work with regarding the location where you will use AMRs, the staff that will operate it, and the goals you hope to achieve through its use.

Location plays a pivotal role in the effectiveness of AMR deployment. Conduct a thorough assessment of your facility’s layout, size, accessibility, and operational dynamics in comparison to AMR functionality and capability. It is unlikely that you will see your desired return on investment (ROI) from AMR implementation if your facility has insufficient space, inadequate accessibility, or suboptimal traffic flow that impedes AMR performance.

In addition, consider the frequency of tasks and the density of traffic when selecting deployment locations. High-traffic zones or areas prone to congestion may benefit significantly from AMR integration to alleviate manual labor burdens and expedite task completion.

Look at the strengths and weaknesses of the various AMR models. Some are designed to function smoothly in populated areas, while others are better suited for second- and thirdshift utilization.

If the equipment needs to service multiple buildings, larger AMR units will be more difficult to transport and can be prone to damage. And while larger units can get the job done more quickly, they may not be able to address hardto-reach edges. However, smaller units that can reach edges may need to recharge midjob, requiring an accessible docking station or human assistance for charging.

Ensure all stakeholders – from frontline workers and management to finance teams and leadership – grasp the function and goals of introducing AMRs into the workflow.

Successful AMR integration hinges upon comprehensive understanding and support from an entire facility operations team.

By nurturing a culture of collaboration and knowledge-sharing, your organization can mitigate resistance to change and foster enthusiasm for embracing AMR technology. Establish clear communication channels to address any concerns or misconceptions regarding AMR implementation. Develop training programs to familiarize employees with AMR operations, maintenance protocols, and safety procedures.

Performance accountability will be critical, especially in larger operations and in those running second and third shifts. Most AMRs have reporting software (either included free-ofcharge or through a subscription) that can provide analytics to measure KPIs.

Vendor Evaluations

When evaluating AMR vendors and their offerings, approach the decision-making process with a critical mindset that will allow you to assess each option pragmatically. Choosing a reputable vendor can mitigate risks associated with equipment failure, compatibility issues, and inadequate support services. While vendors may tout their solutions as the perfect remedy for addressing facility challenges, prioritize those that demonstrate a deep understanding of your organization’s specific operational requirements.

Don’t be swayed by brand names and innovative features. Instead, conduct thorough research, seek recommendations from industry peers, and request product demonstrations. Evaluate each vendor’s track record regarding reliability, scalability, and post-sales support. With numerous AMRs coming into the market each year, you can choose between proven, turnkey solutions or a new offering from a vendor eager for early-use input, which can lead to real-time AMR personalization.

Innovation Through AMR Integration

Although AMRs can help facilities revolutionize their management practices, improve their operational efficiency, and enhance their overall productivity, these benefits are dependent on meticulous planning, strategic decision-making, and alignment with organizational objectives. Organizations that do their homework on deployment locations, staff training, equipment expectations, and vendor evaluations can capitalize on the transformative capabilities of AMRs and maximize their ROI in facility management costs. Embracing a pragmatic approach to AMR implementation enables organizations to navigate challenges effectively and leverage technological innovations to achieve sustainable competitive advantages in an evolving business landscape.

Schools Embrace AMR Technology

In K-12 schools and multifacility colleges and universities, employees with SSC Services for Education have found AMRs to be a worthwhile investment that simplifies their floor care routine.

Texas State University

462 AMR hours in 2024

Laura Davidson, a unit director with SSC who works at Texas State University, said the university’s AMR has allowed cleaning staff to work on other tasks rather than spending hours washing floors.

“The machine reduces time spent on the task at hand, allowing our team to complete other more detailed tasks,” she said. “It sends alerts when maintenance is needed – such as needing to add additional water to the tank, so we know when to check on it and make adjustments.”

Laura said the biggest challenge in AMR utilization was setting up new cleaning processes.

“There is always a learning curve when it comes to implementing new technology, but by being diligent with training and expectations, these tools become routine and are a huge benefit to our teams,” she said.

Rogers

Public Schools

533 AMR hours in 2024

Cleaning crews at Rogers Public Schools in Arkansas are also working more efficiently since the introduction of an AMR in the school district.

“Overall, the machine has made our floor technician positions more efficient; instead of needing at least one associate dedicated to that specific task, our floor techs can use the AMR to scrub while they continue to dust mop and do other duties in the general area.

“It allows our team to multitask well, and because it learns the most efficient route, the more we run it, the less time it needs to do the job – giving us plenty of time to go back and scrub any problem areas twice.”

- Andrew Thacker Resident Regional Manager, Rogers Public Schools, SSC

Career Spotlight

Bahaa Masri’s Manager in Training Success Story

Bahaa was born and raised in Beirut, Lebanon. His educational background is in human resources, and while overseas, he gained experience working as an HR generalist for a company in Dubai.

Bahaa moved to the United States in December of 2020, seeking better opportunities in Roanoke, Virginia. He started his career in the U.S. as a store lead consultant with FedEx. He worked in that role for two years, until he met SSC Unit Director Ouss Sahhar at a Lebanese restaurant. Ouss spoke passionately about SSC and the growth opportunities available, which struck a chord with Bahaa. They shared contact information and planned to stay in touch.

Nine months later, Bahaa moved to Richmond, Virginia, to be closer to his family. While searching for a new job, he came upon a Manager in Training (MIT) job posted by SSC and applied.

Bahaa was hired as an MIT at Virginia Commonwealth University, where he gained operational experience, leadership skills, and hands-on learning opportunities in the facilities management field.

“The MIT program was a pivotal moment in my career, transforming me from an inexperienced individual to a confident professional in facilities services.”

“The program comprehensively filled the gap, equipping me with essential skills like leadership, team management, communication, interpersonal relations, conflict resolution, and more.”

The goal of the MIT program is to effectively train individuals to step into manager roles at SSC’s existing or new partner accounts. The next step in this process is often New Manager Training at the corporate office in Knoxville, Tennessee.

“With the support of Nickie Dwyer and her team, I had the chance to attend New Manager Training, which was three days long. They teach you how to effectively utilize operational systems and tools as a manager, how to support and correct employees through constructive feedback and coaching, navigate HR policies and procedures, and more. In the MIT program, you really learn everything – from operations to safety to training and development.”

Next Steps: From MIT to Recruiter

After three months in the MIT program, a recruiter position opened up with SSC at VCU, and Bahaa was quick to jump in and make an impact:

“I was offered the recruiter position, and at that time, we had 67 vacancies on campus. I managed to drop that down to just one or two vacancies.”

As a recruiter, Bahaa also had the opportunity to travel and support different accounts for SSC with new projects and startups, and in December 2022, he was named Recruiter of the Month.

Back to His Roots: Becoming an HR Manager

After almost a year as a recruiter at VCU, Bahaa was asked to apply for and step into an HR manager position. This transformative career advancement was made possible through the unwavering support and mentorship of HR Business Partner Brittany Doring, whose guidance and expertise played a significant role in his success. Today, Bahaa oversees HR functions for over 350 associates on campus, and he says his top priority is supporting everyone he encounters – from hourly associates to managers and supervisors – and making sure they know the same growth opportunities he has experienced are available to each of them.

“We do our best to make sure everyone feels welcome, receives the proper training they need, and support them as much as we can. We believe every employee deserves to know they have a future with us, beyond their current role. Whether they’re frontline associates, supervisors, or leaders, we want them to feel seen and encouraged to grow.

“We offer professional development courses, trainings, a HiPo program and mentorship. Our goal is to foster a culture of growth, where every team member can climb the career ladder and reach their goals.”

Bahaa has experienced the supportive culture of SSC – from his first meeting with Ouss at a Lebanese restaurant to his own growth within the organization. He makes it a priority to help others understand the same level of support is available to them, too.

“My advice to others in the field is to stay focused on your goals and keep learning. Take advantage of the knowledge and experie nce of those around you, including leaders and colleagues. Take notes, ask questions, and apply what you learn. By emb racing this mindset and approach, you’ll not only achieve your own success, but also contribute to a culture of continuous growth and excellence. Remember, your potential is limitless, and the right mindset and support can take you to new heights.”

The strength of the team is each individual member.

The strength of each member is the team.

Behind the Broom

Celebrating Award-Winning Custodial Team Members

Our success is built on the strength of our partnerships, driven by the unwavering commitment of our associates. These talented individuals understand the unique needs of each school and district they serve and consistently rise to the occasion, delivering outstanding service day after day.

Seeing our team members earn recognition for their hard work and dedication is inspiring. This year, custodians nationwide have been celebrated with awards and commendations – a testament to their critical role in our success. We are incredibly proud to have such dedicated professionals representing SSC, and their contributions are at the heart of everything we accomplish.

- Vallen EmeryDivision President of K-12, SSC

SSC Team Members

Honored at Henry County Schools

Each year, Henry County Schools in McDonough, Georgia, honor support team members at each school facility at the annual Education Support Personnel of the Year (ESPY) Awards. Over 60 individuals are recognized from across the district on social media, and in person at an awards ceremony hosted in the McDonough Performing Arts Center each March. Check out what leadership within the district had to say about each of these award-winning team members!

“Dylan Head is essential to our effective operations as he ensures our school is always clean and orderly. Mr. Head is dependable in areas that extend beyond his responsibilities, such as the school garden, and volunteers by assisting with watering it when staff is on summer break. He assists teachers with transporting items and helps students get to their classes. Mr. Head works hard every day and never complains.”

“Glen Cuveron makes a BIG impact and is a great asset in helping Ola High School to be the very best! As two staff members stated: ‘I am nominating Mr. Glen because he always does an outstanding job ensuring our school is a great facility in which to work and learn. He takes tremendous pride in his duties and has the heart of a servant leader. He works hard, and I am thankful he is a staff member. Clean surroundings do wonders for school pride and our learning envi ronment,’ and ‘Glen continues to go above and beyond to keep OHS clean and shining.’”

This year, four SSC associates were recognized as ESPY winners at each of their school locations .

“Kirby Allen consistently goes above and beyond and demonstrates exceptional commitment. His love for children is evident in every aspect of his work. One of his most remarkable qualities is his receptiveness to feedback, and he actively seeks input to improve his performance and enhance the learning experience. His work aligns perfectly with the district’s core belief that all learning environments should be supportive, safe, and secure. He consistently contributes to creating a positive atmosphere where students can thrive academically and personally.”

“Bobby Wyatt embodies our mission as he promotes communication, collaboration, and innovation, and goes the extra mile to build relationships with staff and students. He often checks on teachers, surprises staff with original artwork, or stays late to play guitar with our student guitar group. Locust Grove High School would not be the place it is without the help, support, and love he pours into it each day! Thank you, Mr. Bobby, for making LGHS an amazing place!”

Shonda Conaster: Partner in Education Award

Shonda Conaster is a day custodian at West View E.S. in Muncie Community Schools. At the end of the school year, she was recognized with the Partner in Education Award for West View by Principal Eric Ambler.

Facilities Director Paul Dytmire called out Shonda’s service excellence and her dedication to our partner school: “Shonda

is an outstanding individual day in and day out. She absolutely deserved this award and was very proud.”

Crystal

Marley:

Amigo de la Isla Award

Each year, the Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi Division of Student Engagement and Success recognizes faculty, staff, and students during their Leadership and Service Awards. This year, Crystal Marley, an SSC shift supervisor, was celebrated with the Amigo de la Isla Award.

The Amigo de la Isla Award, or “Friend of the Island” Award, recognizes individuals who have been a constant source of support for the Division of Student Engagement and Success.

Crystal was celebrated for her unwavering dedication to TAMUCC and the excellent work she does organizing campus events.

Congratulations, Crystal, and thank you for your dedication to the students, faculty, and staff at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi!

Robert Harris: Superstar

Robert Harris, unit director at Richland School District Two, was called out as a Superstar by the director of support contracts in Richland.

“Our team of unit directors is strong. Each of the eight has individual strengths, and together they make a strong team. With mentoring from Yolanda and Brandon and overwatch by Sim, there are some future operations managers and resident regional managers to build great teams of their own.

While we could report great things for each of them, one UD is setting himself apart as a superstar.

Robert Harris is the consummate unit director. He OWNS the schools he is responsible for and is recognized by each as the strength of our custodial program.

He is a constant on the campuses and has sacrificed weekends and nights to personally cover events scheduled at the last minute at Westwood High School.

His contributions go beyond his assigned tasks as he watches the schools for unauthorized visitors and issues that could impact the safety of students and staff.

- Wendell Shelton, Richland County Director of Support Contracts

Smart Savings with Smart Irrigation

AS FEATURED IN TURF MAGAZINE

By Brandon Haley

There

are opportunities to both make and save money by upgrading irrigation systems.

Sustainability and savings are rarely mentioned in the same breath, but smart irrigation practices offer a rare opportunity for both.

As water becomes increasingly more expensive across the country, opportunities to conserve a natural resource while reducing costs are becoming more available and attainable.

Whether a site is residential or commercial and managed by on-site, off-site, in-house, or contracted staff, there are opportunities to sell business, save money, and conserve a precious resource. It is common to have irrigation conservation upgrades paid for within 18 months depending on local utility rates. However, this is not a blanket recommendation because of the possibility that consumption will increase in traditionally under irrigated sites. Careful research of historical utility bills will show the best opportunities for savings.

Brandon

Haley, CGM, is

the

VP

of

grounds management at SSC. He is also a certified grounds manager through the Professional Grounds Management Society with 24 years of experience in the Green Industry.

Up to 43%water usage reduction and over 50% possible savings.

Smart Irrigation Technologies

Conventional irrigation controllers use static timers to schedule irrigation. While dependable, they are reliant on people to set and adjust their run times and lack the ability to monitor and adjust based on weather or site conditions. Smart irrigation technologies overcome the challenge of a manager’s limited time and capacity for daily monitoring by allowing the system to monitor conditions and self-adjust based on weather, sensor data, and by utilizing rain sensors to halt irrigation during precipitation. With internet connections, the system will also notify end users of the changes.

Smart irrigation automation is driven by internal algorithms that gather information about the site, including plant types, soil, and weather. The controller tailors water applications by increasing water during periods of hot and dry weather and reducing water in response to lower temperatures or excessive cloud cover.

While no system is perfect, research has shown the typical smart system in a humid environment can reduce water consumption by up to 43% compared to a professional water manager. Compared to systems that were not managed, savings of over 50% are possible without any additional components being added in the field. In arid conditions where rainfall is limited, these savings will naturally be reduced and there will have to be a higher reliance on increasing the distribution uniformity of the system.

Smart controllers operate automatically when equipped with a flow meter and connected to the internet. Properly calibrated flow meters can detect high and low flows within the system and have the controller notify the manager, allowing for remote management. To properly calibrate flow meters, users must ensure there are no leaks in a zone. The lower the deviation allowed, the more water that can be saved.

A simple 1-inch mainline break can waste over 20,000 gallons of water a day, with 1-inch zone line breaks leaking upward of 400 gallons per irrigation event. Commercial systems with larger pipes will see much higher amounts of waste from leaks. A broken 2-inch pipe can leak over 500 gallons per minute, moving massive amounts of soil and even collapsing roads if not quickly stopped. Flow meters connected to smart controllers can stop this type of waste within minutes and then send notifications through text or email to the end user, giving them peace of mind that a system is operating properly or an alert when it is not.

Smart irrigation technologies overcome the challenge of a manager’s limited time and capacity for daily monitoring by allowing the system to monitor conditions and self-adjust based on weather, sensor data, and by utilizing rain sensors to halt irrigation during precipitation.

Modernizing the Entire System

Technological advances go beyond controllers. Nearly every part of an irrigation system now has a more efficient version, such as pressure reducing irrigation heads, multistream spray nozzles, check valves, and improved drip components. Modern irrigation designs that use these more efficient parts can drastically reduce water consumption and present unique, sustainable possibilities for sites. With utility rates for water rising, these components will save water as well as money over their lifespan.

With irrigation components designed to last 10 to 20 years, break-even points as low as three to five years yield financial benefits while saving enormous amounts of money, ensuring landscapes have access to irrigation for years to come.

For municipalities with in-line water pressure above the manufacturer’s recommendation, heads with pressure-regulating components offer higher savings. It’s common to have pressure spikes and drops during the night, which increase water consumption. In flow meter-controlled systems with tight tolerances, these spikes can even cause flow to rise enough to trigger high-flow warnings and shut down irrigation for the night. Spray heads are the most sensitive to over pressurization, with industry data showing flow rates increase by up to one gallon per minute – wastingup to 20 gallons of water per head every cycle.

Multistream irrigation nozzles have been proven to increase efficiency of irrigation systems as well. Installed on spray heads, these nozzles use rotating streams of water instead of fixed sprays to irrigate. Their precipitation and flow rates are much lower, typically resulting in longer run times than the spray nozzles they are replacing, which can lead to the perception they’re actually using more water than normal nozzles. However, water usage is a function of both time and flow rates, and the reduced flow rate of these nozzles easily makes up for the slight increase in run times. With the increased distribution uniformity and reduced runoff from the low precipitation rate, 20%-40% reductions in water consumption are possible with just a simple nozzle change in locations where head spacing allows for the conversion.

Determining ROI and BreakEven Points

To determine the break-even point, divide the total cost of the upgrade by the expected annual savings. This will show the number of years until the cost is paid off. To determine the annual ROI, divide the annual savings by the total cost. This will equal the percentage annual return of the initial investment. For commercial stakeholders or financially driven customers, ROI will be better understood. For residential stakeholders, the break-even point will be a simpler way to explain when irrigation upgrades would be paid off.

Make sure to research the current municipal water rates being charged by the local utility and any rebates that may be available to the end user. These rates are typically found online and are presented either in costs per 1,000 gallons or per 100 cubic feet. One cubic foot of water is equal to 7.48 gallons. To convert costs per 100 cubic feet to costs per 1,000 gallons, divide the cost by 0.748.

These rates vary wildly by jurisdiction and can range from $4 to over $9 per thousand gallons across the country. The current pricing trend has utilities moving from a discounted tier structure to one that favors conservation by raising rates as more water is used. This change has dramatically affected the ROI of irrigation upgrades.

There are a few ways to determine potential break-even points and ROI metrics. For systemwide upgrades such as a smart controller, consider the amount of water used over the course of an entire year for irrigation. Actual metered data is best, but without this information, theoretical averages must be used.

Irrigating an acre of turf for 30 weeks with 1-inch of water will use just over 800,000 gallons with 100% efficiency. It is highly likely the site will be using more than this per acre. With an estimate of 30% savings for a smart controller, there is a potential of 240,000 gallons to be saved each year. At a cost of $7.00 per thousand gallons, this presents an opportunity to save $1,680 per acre of irrigated landscape each year.

For individual irrigation components such as nozzles, consider the amount of water that would be saved by that component individually. For example, using the over-pressurized irrigation head example above, it’s possible to save 20 gallons per cycle with pressure regulation. With three scheduled cycles per week over 30 weeks, this represents a potential savings of 1,800 gallons per head. At a cost of $7.00 per thousand gallons, installing pressure regulated heads could save $12.60 annually for each head. Even with installation costs, there is potential for an ROI over 40% and a break-even point under 2.5 years. There are similar examples for rain and soil moisture sensors, as recent research in 2022 from the University of Arkansas showed an annual potential savings for rain sensors at $87.00 and soil sensors at $200.00 for bermudagrass lawns.

Smart Savings

The expected savings of smart irrigation technology contribute to a more sustainable, cost-effective, and customized irrigation system that suits the needs of the site and can use drastically lower amounts of water. Conserving water used for irrigation is rewarding and can be profitable as water rates continue to rise. There are opportunities to both make and save money by upgrading irrigation systems. With irrigation components designed to last 10 to 20 years, break-even points as low as three to five years yield financial benefits while saving enormous amounts of money, ensuring landscapes have access to irrigation for years to come.

Estimated savings of 240,000 gal & $1,680 per acre of irrigated landscape per year.

REINVENTING THE ON-CAMPUS DINING EXPERIENCE AT COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES

Foodservice Partner Feature

Texas State University Dining is setting a new standard in enhancing the fan experience at the UFCU Stadium with the introduction of two cutting-edge services this football season.

By leveraging technology to reduce wait times and boost convenience, these innovations reflect a forward-thinking approach to stadium dining.

Cats Corner is a touchless “smart market” that uses artificial intelligence to streamline snack and beverage purchases. Powered by Mashgin technology, the market eliminates the hassle of traditional concession lines. Fans simply place their items on a tray, swipe their card, and go – no scanning or weighing required.

By using the StadiumDrop app, attendees can order a variety of foods and drinks, ensuring they won’t miss any of the game while waiting in line.

This efficiency-driven model, already successful in other campus locations, is ready to revolutionize the stadium experience by drastically cutting down wait times.

Complementing the “smart market” is the Charwells partnership with StadiumDrop, a service that brings concessions directly to fans’ seats in select sections. This service not only enhances convenience, but also contributes to a more immersive game-day atmosphere.

At Texas State University, this emphasis on efficiency is part of a broader strategy to integrate innovation and technology across dining and facilities programs. Implementing this mobile app into the Chartwells service experience is not just about keeping pace with current trends – it’s about setting new ones and reinforcing the university’s commitment to elevating the overall student experience.

Popcorn Bucket

PROFESSIONAL GROUNDS MANAGEMENT SOCIETY

GREEN STAR AWARDS

Each year, the PGMS Green Star Awards nationally recognizes private, public, commercial, and industrial landscapes maintained with a high degree of excellence. This year, SSC Services for Education is excited to announce four Grand Awards received for exceptional operations of our partner campuses. 2024 marks the eighth year SSC has received recognition from PGMS.

South Bend Community School Corporation

Category: Athletic Fields

About the School

The mission of South Bend Community School Corporation (SBCSC) is to create equitable, inclusive, and just schools to ensure all students achieve academic and personal success. In recognition of this mission, SSC’s grounds team strives to provide a safe and aesthetically pleasing campus and athletic fields to encourage a sense of pride in the school community.

SSC took over management of South Bend’s grounds program in 2022. There are seven middle schools and four high schools in the school corporation, and each has a softball field, baseball field, football field, soccer field, and track. To maintain and improve these fields, the grounds team has put several best practices into place, including:

• Mowing all athletic game fields at 1.5 inches, two to three times per week using a John Deere 9009 mower to ensure an even cut

• Monthly irrigation audits at each of the athletic facilities in the corporation

• Application of fresh paint to each field before every game day

School Field

School Field is a synthetic turf field that serves as one of the main recreational spaces for South Bend Community School Corporation. Many events such as lacrosse, football, soccer, band camps, outside camps, and other activities are held on this field throughout the year. Because of consistent, high traffic, the SSC team takes extra measures to ensure the field is always in top shape. The team sweeps the field daily and brushes it, standing the synthetic turf fibers back up and ensuring longer life of the field.

When there are thin areas on the field, the team applies top-dress with matched rubber to provide a consistent, safe playing surface.

Riley High School Soccer Field

Pictured below is the soccer field at Riley High School. To give students a more durable field, the SSC grounds team applies nitrogen and potassium to the field in the fall months to promote a strong spring root system.

In the spring of 2024, SBCSC hosted a sectional and regional tournament, which resulted in six soccer matches played within four days on this field.

In the photo, you actually see the “after” shot –taken after all games had wrapped up. The field was still in incredible shape, which displays how a strong, healthy root system aids the turf in holding up to heavy traffic.

South Bend Community School Corporation rose above all competition to become the first K-12 public school district to win a PGMS Green Star Award in 52 years.

Texas A&M University –San Antonio

Category: University and College Grounds – Small Campus

As a proud hispanic-serving and military-embracing institution with a predominantly firstgeneration student population, Texas A&M University – San Antonio’s mission is to transform lives and the community by delivering an education experience that is accessible, inclusive, and empowering.

The campus architecture and landscape reflect the culture and history of San Antonio and South Texas. Elements of Old World and New World Spanish styles are incorporated along with elements of modern conservation to meet LEED Silver standards. Because of years of drought, a strict irrigation schedule of one day per week is implemented to manage all plants on campus. This is accomplished by selecting native drought-tolerant plants that also enhance the Spanish-inspired design and flow of campus.

University Quad

The University Quad is a space that holds many events throughout the year. To ensure this space is always ready to welcome visitors, the SSC grounds team bases all agronomic plans around soil test results – taken once annually. Core aeration is done as needed to reduce compaction after large events, and the Tifway 419 Bermuda grass is managed to an APPA 2 level. This area also features rain sensors and a weather-based irrigation system with flow meters to minimize water loss.

Sustainable Practices

San Antonio follows permanent, year-round water restrictions. The campus maximizes water conservation with two 55,000-gallon cisterns that collect runoff from the Madla and Central Academic buildings to support the fountain and irrigation system. The SSC grounds crew employs drip and high-efficiency irrigation heads, and all controllers are equipped with smart technology, weather stations, and flow meters to use only necessary water and shut down if leaks occur.

Other initiatives include using organic fertilizers whenever possible and planting native pollinators. These plants support local wildlife and create a beautiful environment for everyone on campus. Informative signs around campus highlight these areas for educational purposes.

Thriving, even with year-round water restriction

Murray State University

Category: University and College Grounds – Midsize Campus

Murray State University places the highest priority on student learning and excellent teaching, blending the range of educational opportunities often found at research institutions with the nurturing student-teacher interactions usually found at smaller universities.

The goal of the SSC grounds department is to provide a campus environment that fosters this mission, with clean, safe, and inviting outdoor spaces that are encouraging for students, staff, and the community.

Supporting Tradition with the Shoe Tree

The Shoe Tree is a long-standing tradition at Murray State. When couples who have met on campus get married, they return and nail their shoes to the tree. Keeping this area presentable is a top priority, but also a challenge with shoes consistently falling. The SSC grounds crew recently added a mulch ring around the tree to help it look clean and tidy, and as the shoes fall, members of our grounds team will nail them back to the tree themselves. The grounds crew monitors the tree’s condition, and if it must be replaced due to aging or other damage, they will plant a new tree in its place. This ensures that the Shoe Tree tradition will continue for years to come.

Sustainable Support

Providing a clean, safe, and inviting campus environment

The grounds crew is comprised of two mow teams. One of the mowing teams operates a fully electric crew, with two 60-inch electric ZTRs as well as battery-operated edgers, trimmers, and leaf blowers.. This crew focuses their attention on core academic areas to reduce noise.

The SSC grounds department also facilitates the university’s recycling program. Cardboard and paper are collected daily and a Community Recycle Day is held once per month for community members to drop off recyclable items. Our grounds crew offloads items, then separates and bales them for pickup.

Texas A&M University –Aggie Park

Category: Parks, Recreation, or Playgrounds

Texas A&M University’s mission is to engage the community in a living teaching environment and inspire curiosity and discovery in the natural world. The SSC grounds team on campus supports this mission with unparalleled grounds management services that prioritize the stewardship of the campus environment.

Aggie Park is nestled in the heart of Texas A&M University, and it is more than just a green space; it symbolizes community, heritage, and sustainability. This park offers a treasure trove of memorials, statues, and unique experiences, making it a special place for Aggies and visitors alike. With Kyle Field as its majestic backdrop, Aggie Park represents the pride and spirit of Aggieland, inviting everyone to explore its wonders and participate in tradition.

Caring for the Pond

Caring for the pond is crucial and involves managing algae growth, ensuring adequate aeration, and regularly monitoring water quality. All of these factors are essential for maintaining the health of the aquatic ecosystem.

The pond exemplifies the park’s commitment to ecological stewardship and is periodically stocked with diverse game fish, inviting both students and community members to enjoy catch-and-release activities. Meanwhile, Turk’s Cap and Muhly Grasses are cultivated to create a meadow-like ambiance throughout Aggie Park.

Freels Family Field and Lafield Plaza

Freels Family Field and Lafield Plaza are beautifully manicured and lead to the majestic Kyle Field, where the War Hymn Statue greets all visitors. The Overcup Oaks line both sides of the TifTuf fields. This area is a popular spot for groups to set up booths or tables during events. In the afternoon, the sun falls behind Kyle Field and creates a beautiful hue on the lawn and tree foliage.

Building Reliability and Efficiency

Steam Decentralization

Plan Guarantees $322,000

Annual Savings at Queens

University of Charlotte

Queens University of Charlotte’s roots began in 1857, when the school was founded as the Charlotte Female Institute. Over the years, it evolved into a Seminary for Girls, then the Presbyterian Female College, and eventually into Queens College in 1912, when the college was moved to its current location in Myers Park.

The growth didn’t stop there – Queens became fully coed in the late 1980s and adopted the current name, Queens University of Charlotte, in 2002.

Queens is a perfect example of growth and progress. Today, the university offers 51 majors, 66 minors and 35 graduate programs to educate and inspire the next generation of leaders.

In 2019, SSC Services for Education became the facilities management partner of Queens University of Charlotte.

At the beginning of the partnership, the SSC facilities maintenance team did a facility condition assessment (FCA) and quickly found, to match the vision of growth and progress for the university, significant upgrades were required to the HVAC and steam plant.

Facility Condition Assessment Findings for the Old Steam Plant

• In 2019, the Queens University steam plant housed five fire tube boilers. Dates of manufacture ranged from 1916 to 1983.

• Boilers 1 and 2 were coal-fired, and Boiler 3 was fuel oil-fired. All three boilers were decommissioned. Boilers 4 and 5 were natural gas-fired. Boiler 5 was also decommissioned, and the university relied on one final boiler to service the entire campus: Boiler 4.

• SSC advised a temporary boiler, Boiler 6, be commissioned and placed beside the steam plant. This allowed for redundancy and reliability; if Boiler 4 were to go down because of its condition, Boiler 6 would keep operations moving. While necessary, this was an extremely costly temporary measure.

• Legacy piping, unlabeled piping and valves, poor access and lighting, and presumed asbestos containing materials created challenges in training new employees and for mechanical contractors new to the site.

Practical Implications

• Because of aged underground piping, some of the steam and much of the condensate never returned to the thermal plant. As a result, so much makeup water had to reach the thermal plant, resulting in increased chemical treatment costs that were unsustainable, more boiler degradation, and overall increased costs for Queens.

• Accumulation of water on the floors was commonplace, requiring the team to create paths out of pallets and wear rubber boots to access certain points of the steam plant.

• Steam leaks on cold days made it nearly impossible to see inside the mechanical rooms.

• Because the heat was leaking outside the steam plant, many plant varieties nearby the building were also unable to grow.

Creating and Communicating an Action Plan

After the initial evaluation of the HVAC and steam plant, the next step in moving the partnership forward was creating a plan for upgrades. These upgrades would not only significantly improve building conditions, but also meet the financial needs of the university.

SSC assisted CMTA with an upgrade plan that addressed the initial improvements to systems and created a path forward for continued planned maintenance to ensure the new systems would operate well for many years to come.

Partnering with CMTA for Standardization and Uniformity in Equipment

Through our partnership with CMTA, we were able to make significant updates to modernize the campus. SSC installed two new boilers: a Fulton Endura Ultra-High Efficiency Condensing Boiler and Lochinvar Shield DHWBs. SSC also made additional enhancements to both equipment and processes, including:

Creating a Path Forward

• Elimination of high-temperature steam pressure vessels and piping, resulting in the elimination of considerable controlled risk.

• Standardization of operational processes to shift workload from reactive maintenance to planned and preventative maintenance

• Installation of standardized equipment, including temperature gauges, pressure gauges, line identification, valve identification, isolation valves, variable frequency drive motors and pumps, automated mixing valves, programmed BAS controls, and improved lighting.

Maintenance Manager Shawn Brown outlined additional benefits realized, particularly from standardizing equipment and establishing an ongoing service contract with the outfits that installed them:

“As equipment is designed for greater and greater efficiency, the service technicians require a higher degree of technical capability. Manufacturers can threaten to void warranties unless their units are serviced by factory-trained personnel. It made good sense to establish our service contract with the outfit that installed them, particularly with the quality work we’ve observed.”

Costs and Benefits: An Investment with Outstanding Return

With old, outdated facilities, there is an initial reactive maintenance challenge that presents significant cost – which is understandably intimidating. The good news is, beyond the initial replacement costs, there is a significant reduction in planned maintenance cost for years to come that more than makes up for the initial investment.

The results speak for themselves: With the SSC/ CMTA steam decentralization plan, Queens University was guaranteed savings of $322,000 per year.

Facilities Director Joel Phelps’ enthusiasm for the project was unmistakable.

“The never-ending repair and maintenance associated with continual steam line repair, abatement, rental boiler, cold calls, trenching, and unachievable water treatment was exhausting and led to numerous employee burnouts and high turnover. Then, rehiring and retraining.

“Now, SSC is on the other side of things - we perform scheduled PMs on time and keep our mechanical rooms clean and well organized. We even have shrubs and grasses growing in flower beds, which previously were so hot from steam leakage that nothing could grow.”

Flowerbeds before and after the project

Engineering, Design, and Construction Services

At Texas A&M University

– College Station

The Texas A&M University Mission Statement

Texas A&M University serves Texas as a landgrant, sea-grant and space-grant public institution of higher education. The university’s mission is to provide the highest-quality undergraduate and graduate programs and develop new understandings through research and creativity.

Higher education facilities are challenged with a need for continuous improvement. To attract and retain a growing student population, educational institutions must offer the best, brightest, and most purposeful learning, living, and recreational spaces. To meet the mission, facilities must grow with the needs of the university. SSC’s engineering, design, and construction services (EDCS) team is proud to support Texas A&M University in their efforts to continuously level up facilities.

About EDCS at Texas A&M

Committed to delivering solutions that provide the highest level of quality and attention to detail in the construction industry, our dedicated team manages new construction, additions, and renovations from inception to completion.

At the Texas A&M – College Station campus, EDCS has 32 team members, each with unique and diverse skill sets. While many of SSC’s subject matter experts focus on custodial, grounds, and maintenance – EDCS offers expanded expertise, with electrical, structural and mechanical engineers, project managers, architects, and superintendents on the team.

What We Do

Texas A&M’s EDCS team acts as the owner’s designated representative on campus – assuming the responsibility for, and risk of, any campus project under a predetermined threshold. Some of the projects the SSC EDCS team handles include:

• Classroom, lab, and residential life renovations

• Capital, deferred maintenance, and fire and life safety construction programs

• Troubleshooting and replacement of mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems

• Structural evaluations and repairs

• New building construction

Each project assigned to the EDCS team receives a designated project manager to see it through. The project manager works alongside Texas A&M leadership and administration to understand the vision and scope of the request, and then completes every step along the way, such as:

• Soliciting designs from local firms

• Soliciting, bidding, awarding, and administration of construction contracts

• Coordination of construction with architects, customers, departments, and key stakeholders

• Day-to-day management of project from start to finish

Ultimately, the goal of the EDCS team is to help Texas A&M move their vision forward – for a feasible cost and in a reasonable time frame.

EDCS in Action at Texas A&M University

New Building Construction: Phenotyping Greenhouse

If you look closely on the edge of Texas A&M University’s College Station campus, you may spot two buildings that hide incredible innovation within their walls. The Automated Precision Phenotyping Greenhouse consists of a headhouse, support alley, and state-ofthe-art greenhouse.

These facilities are used to grow agricultural crops in different, controlled environments. Traditional phenotyping requires great attention to detail and comes with high risk of crops being contaminated or damaged in the process – essentially voiding the results.

Photo Credit: Texas A&M University AgriLife Research

The phenotyping greenhouse at A&M uses innovative technology to minimize risk and automate processes, making research activities more consistent and reliable than ever.

The facility was designed with continued growth in mind – spaces are intended to be flexible and adaptable to the current project’s specifications. For full details on the construction and specifications of this facility, scan the code below to read Assistant Professor Benjamin Ennemoser’s article, featured in Texas Architect.

Deferred Maintenance Program for Residence Life

The SSC EDCS team at College Station manages the Deferred Maintenance program for Texas A&M University Residence Life. This program invests revenue back into the dormitory facilities to maintain and modernize them to keep pace with private housing opportunities around campus. With an annual budget of approximately $15 million-$20 million, most of this work takes place in about a half dozen dorms that are offline during the summer semesters.

Project scopes for Residence Life include:

• Simple Repairs: painting, flooring replacement, and minor room updates

• Major Upgrades: pnhancements to dorm room finishes and entire building HVAC system replacements

Planning for projects valued above $4 million can start as early as two years in advance.These are deemed capital improvement projects and must go through multiple approvals by the Texas A&M system board of regents. Projects valued at less than $4 million are started one year prior with design efforts and competitive bidding.

Photo Credit: Texas A&M University AgriLife Research

All construction is scheduled for completion one month before the start of fall classes. This allows for Residence Life to perform “make ready” operations prior to the return of students. Full-time student staff, such as the graduate hall directors, arrive at the end of July, and room advisors will return one week afterward to start orientation. Furniture deliveries and safety inspections will also occur during the month, leaving little to no additional time for construction activities.

SSC

EDCS has never missed a planned project completion date. Ensuring renovations are finished in time for student move-in is a top priority, and the EDCS team strives to maintain this record of on-time completions each year.

SSC EDCS often works nights and weekends during the summer. Their priorities are keeping these projects on time and providing students with top-notch facilities at Texas A&M University Residence Life.

COLLEGE MOVE-IN DAY GETS A

Vogue Upgrade

Residential

Room Makeover at Johnson C. Smith University

One of the most exciting moments of the first year of college is move-in day, when students can create a residential room that matches their personality and interests. We believe a clean, safe residential room contributes to the success and well-being of our students, and this year, in addition to providing our summer cleaning and maintenance services for residential housing at Johnson C. Smith University, we took things a step further and partnered with The Vogue Room Foundation to provide an incoming firstyear student with a residential room makeover.

SSC HR Business Partner Brittany Doring, a Charlotte local, found The Vogue Room Foundation on Instagram over a year ago and watched its incredible impact on the community. She took the lead in building a partnership with founder Ebony Staten.

The Vogue Room Foundation

“Our busy season is typically in the summer. Our custodial and maintenance teams turn the dorm rooms once students move out, and then they do it again after each summer camp and at the end of summer to prepare for a move-in. Seeing the impact we are making with a cleaning and maintenance perspective and bringing that full circle to help build a beautiful room for a student is very fulfilling.” - Brittany Doring

The Vogue Room Vision

Ebony Staten was a first-generation college student. About four years into her interior design career, she saw a post from Michelle Obama on Instagram highlighting her personal experiences as a firstgeneration college student. The post resonated with Ebony and sparked a desire to give back to college students using her gifts and talents.

The Vogue Room Foundation is a 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization that provides first-generation minority college students with a functional, well-designed residential room space. The Vogue Room’s mission matches SSC’s, recognizing a functional and well-designed residential room promotes productivity and innovative thinking.

The Vogue Room Foundation started small in 2019. Ebony sent out applications to a few high schools in Charlotte and received two applications, ultimately designing one residential room space. This year, there were over 100 applicants, and Ebony and her team were able to complete five residential room makeovers.

Pink Paradise: Creating Julissa’s Dream Room

Julissa was chosen by SSC and The Vogue Room Foundation for a residential room makeover at Johnson C. Smith University in Charlotte. She is pursuing a degree in biology and plans to become a midwife after graduation.

After selecting Julissa as a winner, Ebony worked hand in hand with her to make her dream room a reality.

“I work with my students like I work with my clients. We start off with a consultation, and we talk about what colors they like and dislike, make wallpaper choices, and ultimately have one-on-one sessions for about a month.”

Ebony and Julissa collaborated on a “mood board,” and Julissa was able to switch out items she liked or disliked, building her dream room step by step. Once the vision was complete, Ebony worked with the university to gain early access to her room and set up before Julissa’s arrival in time for a grand reveal.

Julissa couldn’t have been more thrilled with the result, and her happiness - and the happiness of each student she works with - is the reason why Ebony continues to move her nonprofit forward.

It feels amazing to me, using my gifts of interior design, decorating, and making spaces beautiful to pour into these first-generation college students. I can recall when I went off to college that I had an amazing community around me. As I started to get to know people’s stories, I realized people weren’t always as fortunate to have that community. As a first-generation college student, there are barriers – lack of financial support, lack of family support. Partnering with companies like SSC and Compass Group helps us push the mission forward and create a home away from home for these first-generation college students.

- Ebony Staten, The Vogue Room Foundation, Founder

Move-in week is one of the most anticipated moments in higher education, and it’s no different for our facilities management teams working tirelessly behind the scenes. After months of preparing – cleaning, dorm renovations, and crucial maintenance – we’re ready to welcome students back to campus for another exciting academic year. Every aspect of our work, from custodial to groundskeeping and maintenance, is focused on supporting student well-being.

While our core services are essential, we also look for unique ways to give back to the communities we serve. This year, we took it further through our partnership with The Vogue Room, transforming a residence hall room for a first-year, first-generation college student. We believe education is the gateway to a brighter future, and this collaboration helped Julissa begin her college journey with comfort and confidence. Special thanks to HR Business Partner Brittany Doring for driving this initiative; her passion makes SSC a great place to work and an exceptional partner for schools.

- Derrick ParkerDivision President of Higher Education, SSC

Foodservice Partner Feature

South Bend Staycation: Serving Global Cuisine in the Community

When it comes to collaborating with school districts, Chartwells K12 teams have always been more than just business partners with their clients – they become part of the communities they serve.

One such community is South Bend, Indiana, known more for its local university football team than for its diverse population and rich cultural landscape. When Chartwells K12 first partnered with South Bend Community School Corporation in 2019, the team understood the critical importance of school meals for each child throughout the school year, as one in five families lived at or below the poverty line.

The team accelerated their plans to reach the community when the pandemic hit in 2020, mobilizing to serve 17,000 meals a day to students despite schools being closed.

That summer, the team developed Discovery Kitchen in the Park, taking the signature Chartwells K12 nutrition education platform to new heights to engage, entertain, and feed kids throughout the summer. The team quickly earned a strong reputation for convening community resources to care for kids, and their work has been recognized for truly making a difference.

Four years later, the Chartwells team again revamped their summer program to help reach more members of the South Bend community. Merging summer feeding with Global Eats, the newest signature program from Chartwells, the team launched “South Bend Staycation,” a summer program in local parks. The program invited students on a journey to explore unique ingredients and authentic flavors from cuisines around the world, without leaving their home city of South Bend.

MAKING THE CAFETERIA THE HAPPIEST PLACE IN THE SCHOOL

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Kids and their families “traveled” through five countries across parks in South Bend, sampling global cuisines. Attendees also had the opportunity to learn fun facts about the featured countries and participate in themed activities.

Beyond innovative summer feeding programs, the Chartwells K12 team at South Bend is known for going above and beyond to serve the entire community.

From partnering with the local nonprofit Cultivate Food Rescue to reduce food waste and stock the community food pantry, to organizing a weekend backpack program that ensures kids are fed when school isn’t in session, the team at South Bend is living out the Chartwells K12 mission of serving up happy and healthy!

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THEEach fall, SSC Services for Education is proud to partner with teachers to help them prepare their classrooms for the new academic year. We believe classrooms should be clean, safe, and inspiring. When teachers are well-equipped for the year ahead, they are positioned to make an incredible impact on the next generation of leaders in our communities.

2024 was the fourth year of this initiative, and it was bigger and better than ever. Our corporate office is headquartered in Knoxville, Tennessee. To kick off this program, we cleared the wish lists of 13 local teachers.

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In addition to supporting these classrooms, 17 partner schools across the country nominated a first-year teacher to have their wish list cleared ahead of the new school year.

This year’s contributions covered 30 classrooms, with an investment of over $12,000 given directly to teachers who are making an impact.

Josie Hilbert’s Seventh Grade Math Classroom

Ashwaubenon School District

Josie graduated from Winona State University in December 2023. She enjoys helping others and working with students to achieve success inside and outside of the classroom. This year, she started her first year as a seventh grade math teacher at Parkview Middle School.

Valarie Boban’s Second Grade Classroom

A.L. Lotts Elementary

“Thank you so so much for the email, and an even bigger thank you for filling out so much of my wish list! This has made such a difference already in our classroom, and I am so thankful to have these items. My students are already using them every single day in our room. Thank you for making my classroom a brighter and better place!”

Nathan McHarvey’s Seventh Grade Math Classroom

Roane School District

Nathan is a new teacher at Harriman Middle School. He started as a substitute teacher and now has his own seventh grade math classroom. Students at HMS enjoy his teaching style and fun attitude toward learning, and Nathan works hard to keep his classroom fun and engaging. This year, he’s excited to have a classroom that reflects his love of the community and students in Roane Schools.

Caring Beyond the Surface

Addressing Mental Health in Schools

According to the American Institutes for Research, “a welcoming, supportive school climate contributes to students’ and teachers’ social, emotional, and cognitive development.” This environment can, in turn, improve test scores and attendance, increase grade promotion and graduation rates, reduce violent behavior, and even mitigate teacher burnout.

Each adult within a school environment can have a positive impact on the mental health of students.

Statistics surrounding mental health are jarring.

• One in every five students report being bullied (National Center for Educational Statistics)

• 50% of all lifetime mental health conditions begin before the age of 14 (National Alliance on Mental Illness)

• A 10% increase in negative experiences on social media corresponds with a 13% rise in loneliness, resulting in heightened risks of psychological and mental health issues, including depression and suicide (JAMA Psychiatric Study).

Fostering awareness, understanding, and empathy has never been more critical in school environments. While students only spend a portion of their days within school walls, being seen and heard in that environment can change the trajectory of their lives.

While each party may carry different responsibilities, there are ways for everyone – teachers, school staff, and contracted vendors like facilities management providers –to be actively involved in keeping students safe and secure.

Vendor and District

Responsibilities

Both vendors and districts should have training in place to proactively support students’ mental health and actively monitor the school environment. These trainings should focus on identifying potential areas of concern in student behavior, alerting proper administrators, and supporting students by creating a positive, welcoming environment.

The best tool each member of the school community has is the ability to keep a watchful eye and a listening ear. If you see something, say something. School staff, vendors, and teachers spend the school day alongside students, and should be trained and able to learn the school environment, observe interactions, and communicate when something seems off.

Think about students like a well-read book.

From the outside, the cover may look polished and in good condition, but when you take the time to flip through the pages, you might notice a few creased corners, smudged notes, or even some missing pages. Just like a book, students often present themselves well on the surface, but beneath that, they may be carrying hidden struggles. It’s important for adults to be attentive and compassionate, so they can recognize when students might need support, even if they’re not asking for it directly.

For teachers, classrooms are often in hallways where the same groups of students gather each day. Vendors may service the same spaces consistently and be around the same groups of students regularly. In these environments, make mental notes.

• Does a usually loud, outgoing student seem distant?

• Is the quiet kid acting a bit off?

• Is a child who typically finds themselves surrounded by friends isolating themselves?

Approach administration with concerns. The underlying cause may be something as simple as having a bad day, or something as serious as trouble at home, bullying, or a mental health issue, but until someone points it out, it will go unaddressed. Speaking up creates space for school administrators to care for students in the way they need it most.

Creating Awareness, Encouraging Unity

Creating an open environment starts with being intentional about openness, respect, and acceptance.

Social media is one of the most, if not the largest, sources of information our children have in their lives. It doesn’t paint a picture of reality – it paints a picture of a pristine book. Often, what we need most when we are having a hard day or walking through a painful season is to know everyone else’s lives aren’t perfect, either.

There are very practical ways we can raise awareness of common mental health issues and encourage students to talk about their problems.

• Participate in events like Unity Day, created by the National Bullying Prevention Center. This event encourages everyone to wear orange for the day – a color known for its visibility – representing the universal push to stop bullying and unite communities.

• Normalize talking to counselors and trusted adults. Encourage students to open up to safe, appropriate school team members when they are struggling with their mental health and break the stigma around their struggles.

• Encourage students to advocate for each other. See something, say something is everyone’s responsibility.

As mental health continues to impact students, support staff, and educators alike, finding innovative solutions and initiatives to create supportive and nurturing environments is more important than ever.

Mental health is not a destination; it’s a process.

Care in the Community

Sean Slusher Starts Life Walk for Suicide Prevention at Murray State University

At SSC, we believe giving back to the communities we serve is more than a responsibility – it’s the right thing to do. Our associates share this value and find ways to go above and beyond in their own communities to support the causes they care about most.

Mental health is a topic that hits home for many, including Sean Slusher, lead custodian at Murray State University, whose unwavering dedication to suicide prevention and mental health awareness has touched countless lives and strengthened the fabric of his community.

In 2023, Sean organized the first Life Walk for Suicide Prevention at Murray State University. This event serves as a vital initiative to address the critical issue of suicide by fostering awareness and providing support to those facing everyday struggles and constant stress. He uses his own personal struggles to inspire people battling mental health issues to keep fighting.

Sean didn’t know what the impact of the event would be when he decided to bring it to campus, but that didn’t stop him from giving it his all:

“It was a rough start trying to organize the event last year. Not knowing where to start and who to contact made the startup challenging. I had a lot of people from Murray State help me with a lot of stuff – different fraternities, sororities, and other organizations.”

The support from the community made the first year’s walk memorable and resulted in 110 people from the community participating. Sean’s hope is to create a legacy that continues to inspire people to keep on fighting every day.

“Doing this is helping me save my life. Even if I don’t become a superstar celebrity by doing this, I hope I’ve done enough to impact the community.”

- Sean SlusherLead Custodian, Murray State University, SSC

In 2024, Sean continued the Life Walk for a second year and his impact and audience was even greater. He went above and beyond his regular duties to prepare for this year’s event. Sean created and distributed flyers, built an event website, and even took time to set up an information table in the Wellness Center on his days off. His dedication to raising awareness was evident as he engaged with students, staff, and community members, educating them about the importance of the event and the resources available for those in need.

The growth in participation is a clear testament to the impact of Sean’s efforts and the growing support for his cause. Sean’s efforts were further highlighted when WPSD-TV featured him in a segment about the event, where he shared his passion and the importance of the cause. The event gained support from local organizations, with The Murray Bank providing free ice cream and Andrew O’Rourke, SSC’s assistant director of grounds, volunteering as the DJ.

All proceeds from the Life Walk are directed to the campus psychology department and Check-A-Vet, an organization dedicated to raising public awareness for engaging veterans in meaningful and routine ways.

Through his actions, Sean has shown that when we come together to address the needs of our communities, we can create safer, healthier, and more compassionate environments for all.

Together Against Bullying

Unity Day 2024

October is National Bullying Prevention Month. Year after year, bullying continues to be a leading cause of concern in K-12 schools, and students are more susceptible to harmful words and actions than ever before with the continued expansion of social media.

As members of the school communities we serve, our teams have the unique opportunity to help raise awareness and unite toward bullying prevention every year through Unity Day.

Unity Day is an annual event that falls on the third Wednesday of October. School hallways are flooded with orange shirts, posters, and signs – each spreading a visible message promoting kindness, acceptance, and inclusion.

Wear & for Unity KINDNESS

The first Unity Day was held in 2011 and the event has grown significantly over the years. Led by PACER’s National Bullying Prevention Center, Unity Day encourages every individual to get involved. By widespread involvement, a reminder is sent to those who have faced bullying: You are not alone, and you are cared for.

SSC began participating in Unity Day in 2022, and this year we expanded our efforts. Over 20 of our teams and a total of nearly 1,500 associates took a stand against bullying and celebrated Unity Day in their school communities on October 16.

This year, we brought the message “Kindness Crew” to school hallways on T-shirts and posters, to remind students that we are there not only to provide clean, safe learning environments, but also to spread kindness each and every day.

It takes courage to stand up to bullying. Together we can create learning environments that foster inclusion, acceptance, and kindness.

Please visit StopBullying.gov and PACER’s National Bullying Prevention Center to learn more about how you can get involved with Unity Day in your own community.

Engaging in Student Success

The Conrad Leadership Program

Education paired with hands-on experience makes a large impact in the career journeys of young professionals. It isn’t enough to simply earn a degree – students must also pursue opportunities to put what they are learning into practice.

One of our focuses at SSC is facilitating opportunities for growth – and we are proud to partner with the Conrad Leadership Program to develop the next generation of leaders in Texas.

About the Program

The Conrad Leadership Program was established by Texas State Senator Royce West. The program aims to help Texas students gain valuable experience in their desired career area before graduating from college.

SSC has partnered with the Conrad Leadership Program since 2021. In three years, we’ve had the opportunity to place 10 interns with our teams across the state of Texas in roles supporting facilities management, human resources, marketing and communications, and more.

MEET SSC’S 2024 INTERNS

Marcus Johnson

Facilities Management Intern

Marcus is a facilities management intern with our teams at Parker University and the Texas A&M University regional campuses. He is currently in his senior year at the University of Texas at Austin, completing his degree in civil engineering.

Marcus is a second-year intern – he started with SSC in the summer of 2023 and stayed on our team throughout the academic year, continuing on into the present year. A significant focus of his internship has been solving specific facilities challenges on our partner campuses. Some of his favorite experiences have been finding the best vendors for our needs and coordinating their work on campus projects.

Marcus has most enjoyed learning the ins and outs of professional communication and appreciates how everyone he works alongside is open to sharing knowledge and information.

“One of the nice things about working in facilities management is everyone has very valuable knowledge they are willing to share and open up to you about.”

Ivette Ontiveros

Human Resources Intern

Ivette is a human resources intern, assisting the team at UT Southwestern Medical Center in Dallas. She earned her bachelor’s degree in sociology as a 2024 graduate of the University of North Texas.

Rather than pursue a career in social work like many of her fellow sociology majors, she is taking a different path and heading into the HR field.

Ivette has enjoyed working hands-on with unit directors, managers, and our HR team throughout her internship. She believes the experience is incredibly valuable in building her career skills. Some of her day-to-day responsibilities include assisting our on-site admins with onboarding new associates and working alongside our DEI team on upcoming initiatives and partnerships. In June 2024, Ivette even made the trip to Knoxville, Tennessee, to assist the HR team with New Manager Training and network with SSC’s newest leaders.

Yolanda Lewis

Warehouse Management Intern

Yolanda is a warehouse management intern at Parker University. Yolanda is highly motivated and incredibly determined to achieve her goals. She has three children and three grandchildren, and at the height of COVID-19, she decided to return to high school and earn her diploma. She didn’t stop there – Yolanda is now a first-generation college student and will graduate from the University of North Texas with a business degree in 2025.

Her favorite part about working for SSC has been encountering new challenges and opportunities. Her internship focus is reorganizing and mapping the warehouse on campus –a large feat that brings new challenges every day.

Yolanda looks forward to the different situations she encounters and values everything she is learning along the way.

Investing in students. Investing in our future.