Seven Residential Facilities housekeepers were honored for their exceptional dedication and service on September 16, 2025, at the University of Maryland’s Appreciation Luncheon in the University House. Alongside housekeepers from Facilities Management, the honorees received certificates of appreciation from President Pines and enjoyed a special lunch in their honor.
This year’s recognition held special meaning, as the 2025 honorees were the first to be selected by their peers through a new, team-driven process. In the past, supervisors chose who best represented the department’s commitment to service and teamwork. But beginning in January 2025, each Housekeeping team took on that responsibility themselves. During team meetings, members stood up to publicly nominate a colleague they felt best embodied the department’s values, explaining why they believed their nominee deserved recognition before the team voted. This change made the honor even more significant, as it came directly from those who work side by side every day.
In the words of their teammates:
Feliese Gaspard | Cambridge Community
“I nominate Feliese because of her effort, passion and dedication in her work. She is a good co-worker and a great housekeeper.”
Gualberto Balbuena | Heritage Community
“Gualberto comes to work on time each day and is always available when there is a need for help. When there is an emergency in the area, he makes himself available and is quick and ready to jump in to take on any task that he is given to do.”
Melvin Brown | Ellicott Community
“Melvin brings a lot of cheer to the work group. If you don’t hear Melvin singing or being loudly cheerful, something is wrong. He gives nicknames to almost everyone. He calls himself “Dr. Brown”. If you need help, Melvin is there.”
Michael Chewlin | Denton & Oakland Community
“His dedication and hardworking nature are evident in the quality of his work and his commitment to maintaining high standards.”
Linda Lamour | North Hill
“Care is the word that defines Linda; she cares for her family, she cares for her coworkers and she cares for her students. The University may think that the students are Maryland students but they are Linda's students first!”
Jula Louis | South Hill
“Jula is truly a role model for our housekeeping team. Her teammates are happy to work with her as she always has a positive attitude that rubs off on everyone and lifts them up.”
Rousseau Fleurimond | Night Program
“Rousseau is one of our owls; awake and working all night so that our campus recreational facilities are ready for our students at the crack of dawn. He is truly a joy and pleasant to work with, he does it all and NEVER cuts corners.”