Unsung Heroes

By Khalil Garriott (’04)

James Madison University has a unique spirit where people look out for one another. The result is a strong community feel, and those who work at JMU take pride in it.

“I love what I do,” housekeeping field manager Vickie Raynes said. “I love my job. I’m passionate about it.”

Raynes started working at JMU at age 19 shortly after becoming a single mom. Her daughter is now a registered nurse in the critical care unit at Sentara RMH Medical Center. Her success is a testament to Raynes’ dedication and hard work, which she continues today as a Facilities Management employee.

Raynes’ motherly instinct carries over into her day job. She looks out for JMU students and wants them to have sanitized bathrooms and clean classrooms each morning. Her Facilities Management colleague, Dennis Hart, knows that students shouldn’t have to worry about having hot water to wash their hands. They work diligently behind the scenes to ensure these basic necessities—things that many take for granted—operate efficiently for students.

“It makes life easy when you enjoy your job,” said Hart, JMU’s power plant manager, who spent 20 years in the U.S. Navy as a boiler technician.

For senior floriculture specialist Faye Ewing, it’s all about playing a role in making campus look beautiful. Her strong rapport with colleagues is immediately evident.

“Your job’s a very big part of your life,” Ewing said. “You need to be happy.”

Across campus, people work together to achieve a common goal: The JMU Way, as Raynes calls it. Watch this video to see how three JMU employees are Being the Change.