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By SU Public Relations

SALISBURY, MD---Every day, ºÚÁÏÍø Dining Services (UDS) provides thousands of meals for students and other members of the campus community.

Behind the scenes, clients from Lower Shore Enterprises, Inc. (LSE) are there to help make it happen.

LSE recently named SU its 2023 Community Employer of the Year, recognizing more than a decade of partnership between the two Salisbury-based institutions.

The organization fosters opportunities for competitive employment, community engagement and meaningful days for people with disabilities.

"We want to provide as many opportunities as possible for the community to join us here and be able to work and be part of our team on campus," said Mark Andrews, UDS assistant director for Commons dining.

According to Ivy McIntyre, LSE executive director, those opportunities have benefitted more than just those who have found jobs at UDS.

"For those we serve, the pride they have in their employment is encouraging others to join the workforce," she said. "SU has made LSE employees feel valued as part of the team."

Currently, UDS employs four LSE clients. It also partners with other area organizations that provide employment opportunities for those with disabilities, including Dove Pointe, Inc.; Bay Shore Services; Somerset County Community Services.

In addition, UDS works with the Maryland Division of Rehabilitation Services to provide employment opportunities for high school students in need of workforce experience.

For Andrews, these partnerships all serve the same purpose: to give those who want to work an opportunity to work.

"We treat everyone the same walking through the door," he said.

In some cases, SU is the first place of employment for those participating in these programs.

"Seeing the smile on their faces when they have a job for the first time, it just feels good," Andrews said.

Opportunities for advancement exist, as well. While many employees hired through LSE and other organizations begin their UDS careers washing dishes (working with dish room supervisor Bob Adams, who Andrews noted "provides a great support system"), several who have expressed interest in learning about other areas of the operation have gone on to jobs in food preparation and service at SU.

"We have a good track record of retaining these employees," said Andrews. "We never want to limit anyone."

Employment through partners like LSE is almost always a positive experience both for the employees and for UDS supervisors, who receive coaching and support from LSE and others, he added. He hopes UDS' efforts will encourage other area employers to consider hiring through LSE and similar organizations.

"I feel so blessed to be able to partner with these groups," said Andrews. "It's all about providing that opportunity, providing that chance for someone who may not have had a long-term job, but they want one. And they find one at SU."

LSE has another connection on campus, as well: The organization partners with SU's Best Buddies club, with club members providing connections, friendship and leadership training for LSE clients.

Learn more about SU and opportunities to Make Tomorrow Yours at www.salisbury.edu.