By Lynn Reutens '23

International Housekeepers and Environmental Services Week is held every year during the second week in September. In recognition of this week, the University of Mount Union is proud to celebrate and thank the professional staff members who work behind the scenes on campus. I had a wonderful opportunity to speak to three remarkable women who have played an integral part in this campus setting.

As Regina Shellenberger, housekeeping supervisor, gracefully says, “I have worked at Mount Union for 23 years. This is not my first job, but I came here because it allowed me the time I needed to spend with my family and raise my three children: Jannelle, Becky and Susan, as a single parent. Initially, before starting, I heard that it was a great place to work in, so I applied, and I got the job. It still is a beautiful place to work in. I have never felt more complete.” 

Regina Shellenberger joined Mount Union on June 1, 1998 and has moved up into her current role.

“It was a sales representative, Bill, who told us ladies about housekeepers’ week a few years ago,” she jokingly said. “It did not happen every year. It is nice how students truly appreciate us and recognize us for our hard work. They leave little notes around. I think back in the day the role of housekeeping was kept invisible, but this has changed. I’ve worked in the same dorm for over 10 years and watched many students grow. They enter as freshmen, stay four years and graduate. They’ve left, but I’m still here!” 

Shellenberger graciously highlighted that the inclusion of housekeepers into the academic setting has changed and that being acknowledged, being able to attend luncheons and to participate in events within the community has offered her a sense of gratification and has touched her profoundly. 

“Now I have a great staff who are doing a great job, and they go above and beyond,” she said, smiling. “They are great team players because they are in a great place.”