Tom Dunn, a production cook at Holmes Dining Hall, has been selected as a recipient of the Jack Breslin Distinguished Staff Award. The award, created in 1978, presents $2,500 to six university support staff members in honor of the late Jack Breslin, a student leader and athlete and former university vice president.
As the production cook, Tom has consistently displayed leadership, energy and a positive attitude. He takes pride in training new team members, supporting fellow Spartans and ensuring the team holds safety standards in the highest regard. Those who nominated him expressed that Tom sees training as an opportunity to guide, coach and empower his colleagues. Fellow team members often seek greater levels of responsibility because of his encouraging words, or they stay in touch with him after graduating from the institution.
The management at Holmes Hall speak highly of his character as well. Sous Chef Joseph Murphy shared that he looks forward to working alongside Tom, describing him as an invaluable asset. Together, they map out food service for highly attended summer conferences and Tom goes the extra mile to give campus guests the best experience. On her first day as dining manager at Holmes, Anise Patterson recalls hosting NOAC, a Boy Scouts of America event. Not only did Tom express that they had service for 1,200 handled, but he also produced biscuits and gravy in response to a last-minute request.
Outside his role with Culinary Services, Tom represents his church and community as a volunteer. An avid MSU football and basketball fan, he has worked security at Spartan Stadium for a number of years to contribute to a positive experience for guests.
For more information on the recognition, please see MSUToday.