Cashier recognized by Student Affairs

April 29, 2011 | Features, UToday
By Vicki L. Kroll



Annette Gernheuser, a cashier at Starbucks, showed off the Wow Award she received last week. She was surprised with the honor by, from left, Leah Mullen, Dr. Kaye Patten Wallace and Michelle Martinez.

Annette Gernheuser, a cashier at Starbucks, showed off the Wow Award she received last week. She was surprised with the honor by, from left, Leah Mullen, Dr. Kaye Patten Wallace and Michelle Martinez.

Many people know Annette Gernheuser. In fact, a lot of folks probably see her almost every day.

She is a cashier at Starbucks.

And the Division of Student Affairs wants her to know that she is appreciated.

Last week, Gernheuser received the division’s Wow Award for her exemplary service to students, faculty, staff and visitors.

Dr. Kaye Patten Wallace, vice president for student affairs, and Michelle Martinez, dean of students, presented her with a certificate of recognition and a gift card.

“Not only does Annette smilingly ask every customer how he or she is doing and actually care to listen, but she also remembers the faces, names, stories and preferences of countless individuals who file past her register every day,” said Leah Mullen, an undergraduate majoring in geography and planning, who is on the Student Affairs Student Advisory Board and nominated Gernheuser.

“The little doses of support and kindness that she administers, whether as a quasi-counselor during the early morning hours or a familiar face during the lunchtime rush, are truly invaluable,” she said.

Gernheuser, an Aramark employee, has worked on campus 33 years.

“I love my job and always try to treat people the way I want to be treated,” she said. “I know some of the students, being away from home, need a friendly face. I feel like they are all my kids!”

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