As 2021 drew to a close, members of the Purdue Veterinary Medicine family rallied together to show their appreciation to an individual who has done so much to brighten each week day for faculty, staff, and students during the academic year. That person is Tammie Hill, who manages the day-to-day operations of the Continuum Café in Lynn Hall for Aramark, which operates multiple dining locations on the Purdue campus.
Just before the end of the fall semester, a group of PVM faculty and staff gathered secretly December 16 to surprise Tammie with a basket of treats and gift certificates for pampering services that she could use to better enjoy her time off during the University’s Winter Recess. The surprise worked, and had the intended effect of conveying to Tammie how much she is valued and appreciated for her dedication, caring, and positive demeanor as she ensures that the café is open and ready to provide breakfast, lunch, and snack items for customers every weekday from 7:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
“Tammie Hill has remained a constant in our college, benefiting everyone who visits the café,” said Dr. Latonia Craig, assistant dean for inclusive excellence. “It has been an unprecedented year for the Continuum Café due to limited staffing, supply shortages, and other barriers that can affect hours and the menu,” Dr. Craig explained. “Despite these challenges, Tammie has not only shown kindness, but has remained buoyant in response to her circumstances. Tammie is a valued member of the PVM family, and her continued contributions are vital for faculty, staff, and students in their quest to find peace of mind. If only to get a coffee, a bottle of water, and a sandwich, we are greeted with a smile, rich conversation, and a compassionate attitude no matter the type of visit. We wanted to take this opportunity to show our love and appreciation to her.”
Dr. Craig’s team in the Office for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion got some tips on Tammie’s favorite things to ensure her holiday basket was filled with items that would be especially meaningful to her. “Thank you to everyone who responded to this opportunity to honor and show appreciation to Tammie,” Dr. Craig said.
With the start of the new semester Monday, January 10, the Continuum Café is open again with its normal hours of 7:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., Monday through Friday. The only anticipated exceptions will be on days when staffing issues necessitate preparing sandwiches ahead of time as grab and go selections instead of as individualized custom orders – an adjustment which enables the café to remain open with reduced staff instead of having to close.
Thank you Tammie!