Cindy Baswell, manager of MSU Bakers, was honored as a 2020 recipient of the Jack Breslin Distinguished Staff Award. The award, presented annually to six university support staff members, is named in honor of Jack Breslin, who served MSU as a student leader, honored athlete, top administrator and steadfast advocate.
After graduating from MSU with a Food Science and Human Nutrition degree, Cindy began her career with Culinary Services (CS), holding a variety of positions over the past 28 years. She has enthusiastically led teams to Deliver Outstanding Spartan Experiences, including in her current role as manager of MSU Bakers. Cindy has impacted countless individuals, from students and alumni, to support staff and community members.
"Cindy has personally motivated me to perform at my fullest potential and has encouraged me to stretch beyond my comfort zone," shared Selena Peeper, a baker on the team. "One of the things I personally appreciate is that she will always make time for you if you need a listening ear."
Cindy continuously looks for opportunities to innovate, while seeking feedback from on-campus units and guests along the way. This includes endless support for those with special dietary needs and food allergies. Recently, the bakery developed vegan recipes as well as items that are free from the Big 8 allergens plus gluten for Thrive at Owen Hall. In 2019, the MSU Bakers facility also transitioned to nut-conscious. Beyond her role at the bakery, Cindy is an active member of several teams that play a fundamental role in the success of CS, including the Reimagining Team.
"Cindy leads her team to excellence in all they do, creating a culture of creativity, compassion, generosity and strong ethics," explained Lisa Farley, associate director of support services for the Culinary team. "She is always one of the first to offer her time and her ideas, oftentimes dropping what she is doing to give a tour, take an order or just listen."
A Spartan through and through, she is dedicated to supporting our department, the Division of Student Life and Engagement, the university and the community. Congratulations, Cindy!
For more information on this year's recipients, please visit the MSU Human Resources website.