The kitchen cafeteria is always a bustling place as Sodexho staff work hard to feed hungry students, faculty, and staff delicious meals such as chicken cheese enchiladas and artichoke-stuffed flank steak. People stop by the cafeteria at all times of the day to grab a drink, a sandwich, a cup of coffee, or a hot meal. On average, 1800 transactions occur each day! It takes a dedicated team to make it work.

One of the people who makes it work is Ryan Werkheiser. Ryan (pictured left) began his career in the kitchen about five years ago as part of the Liberty High School work program. His positive attitude and willingness to help earned him great respect from his co-workers and eventually he was moved into a full-time position. He was recognized for his work at the March 27 MR Awareness Celebration Luncheon where he received the Vocational Achievement Award. The MR Awareness Awards are given to individuals with developmental disabilities who have achieved amazing things.

“He is a great help and a fabulous worker,” colleague Sue Loetzbier said of Ryan.

His duties include dishwashing, food prep, and receiving. He puts food deliveries away in the right spots on the shelves, making it easier for workers to locate the things they need in the middle of a busy shift.

Executive Chef Char Hartley appreciates Ryan’s assistance in the kitchen. “He likes to help people,” Hartley said. “He’ll jump right in. When the Spartan Center was being built, Ryan struck up a friendship with some of the construction workers. He asked if they needed anything, and one of the guys replied a pizza. Ryan immediately went and got him one!”

The Vocational Award, according to a certificate of recognition given to Ryan by the Senate of Pennsylvania, is presented to an “individual who has shown great progress throughout the year by acquiring a new skill or attaining a new position while demonstrating a positive attitude. Mr. Werkheiser stands as a shining example of the triumph of the human spirit. He has displayed exceptional determination, courage, and commitment to reaching his goals and preparing himself for a bright future that is full of possibilities.”

Ryan learned of the award when he came home from work one day. “My mom told me,” he said. “I was shocked, happy, and excited!”

Along with a special plaque and the certificate from the Senate, Ryan also won the opportunity to throw the ceremonial first pitch at a Lehigh Valley IronPigs game this spring.

“I can’t wait. I hope all my friends see me on television,” he said. Service Electric will telecast IronPigs home games beginning this month.

Ryan enjoys coming to work in the kitchen every day. “I’m very happy to be able to work here,” he said. “Char and Bob (Wilkin, director of food services) are very good to work with. I like helping them out.”

Ryan may soon be expanding his duties in the kitchen.

“He really likes to cook,” Char explained. “He already does food prep, but we’ll be moving him into cooking more.”

Whatever Ryan does in the future, he is sure to be successful because of his wonderful work ethic and consideration for others.