The Daily Tar Heel
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The Daily Tar Heel

Housekeeping reform making good strides

TO THE EDITOR:

While it’s always gratifying to see articles supportive of our housekeeping employees, the recent column “Stand with campus workers” failed to adequately address the many accomplishments recently taking place in housekeeping services.

It’s no secret that the department has had its share of problems and some serious issues, but facilities services and University administration have made a renewed commitment to correct past mistakes.

Resources and initiatives have been put in place to eliminate obstacles that have traditionally plagued the department, such as language barriers and issues of trust between workers and management.

An 11-member advisory committee elected by housekeeping staff meets regularly to provide input and make recommendations to management on matters of importance to employees.

Problems are addressed as they occur and University leadership is listening.

Significant improvements are being made under the progressive leadership of Darius Dixon.

In partnership with the Office of Human Resources, translated policies — including harassment, discrimination and grievances — have been made available and are easily accessible.

Fostering the critical relationship between housekeeper and supervisor is of paramount importance.

Mandatory supervisory development and training programs are routinely conducted to ensure supervisors have the essential knowledge, skills and the personal and professional attributes to be effective leaders.

Facilities services is proud of our team members that keep this campus clean, healthy and safe.

It is only right that they are given, in return, a work environment where they are treated with respect and dignity, and our good faith efforts to ensure this happens are ongoing.

Anna Wu
Assistant Vice Chancellor for Facilities Operations
Planning and Design

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