Meet the Pitt staffers who keep campus running during winter recess

While Pitt’s winter recess brings the end of classes and fewer people to campus, for many University staff, the show must go on. Pittwire checked in with a few of the unsung heroes working throughout the break to ensure the University is safe and functional — and ready for the spring semester.

“Even when campus quiets down for winter recess, the University keeps running thanks to the people whose work is often unseen but always essential,” said Dwayne L. Pinkney, executive senior vice chancellor for administration and finance and chief financial officer. “Our public safety team, custodial staff, facilities management and so many others remain hard at work to keep Pitt safe, clean and welcoming throughout the break and ready for everyone’s return in January.

“I am deeply grateful to this team for the commitment, professionalism and care they bring to our community all year long," he added.

From keeping ice off the sidewalks to keeping cells alive, here’s how these critical University staffers keep their corners of campus on track.

In the top photo, staffers like June Corbett (pictured) can focus on restorative work, including refinishing and recoating floors, extracting carpets and performing detailed cleaning in restrooms, stairwells and hallways. “Pitt's custodians are on-site around the clock during the winter break. The custodial team responds immediately to emergencies, whether it’s water leaks, frozen pipes or other building concerns, preventing small problems from becoming costly disasters,” said TaRay Kelly, manager of custodial services in the Office of Facilities Management.