For Virginia Tech Housekeeper Michael Calfee, his job is about much more than just cleaning Cheatham Hall from 5 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. every day. 

His colleagues agree that he does an incredible job keeping the building clean and is meticulous about the details.

In recognition of his hard work and dedication, Calfee has been chosen as the 2016 Facilities Department Employee of the Year. He was picked from among 11 other facilities employees who were recognized as employees of the month between September 2015 and August 2016. There are more than 400 employees in the Facilities Department who are eligible for the award.

While Calfee is proud of his work, he also gets great satisfaction from his interactions with the students and employees he encounters every day.

“Michael always greets everyone with his beautiful smile and genuine welcoming attitude,” said Candice Albert, director of administration and finance for the College of Natural Resources and the Environment, which is housed in Cheatham Hall.

Calfee's primary duties include keeping the third floor of the building spick-and-span by mopping, cleaning restrooms, and emptying trash bins, among other things. He is also responsible for cleaning portions of the second floor, as well as the Duck Pond restroom facilities when the weather is warm.

One of the perks of the job, Calfee said, is the opportunity to embody the university’s motto, Ut Prosim (That I May Serve) by being a role model for students.

“I try to be a role model for the students who come through the building,” said Calfee. “I want them to see that if you do your job right the first time, you don’t have to go back and do it again.”

Calfee, a Las Vegas Native, came to Virginia Tech in 2013 from Burger King in Christiansburg, Virginia, where he worked as a manager for 13 years. Before being assigned to his current post last year, he worked as a housekeeper in Agnew and Sandy halls.

Chris Kiwus, associate vice president and chief facilities officer, presented Calfee with a plaque and $1,000 check at the department’s annual picnic on Oct. 12. Calfee said he was honored to have been chosen, and he attributes the achievement to his strong faith.

When asked what he would do with his winnings, Calfee responded “I’m going to take a summer vacation.”

Written by Abbey O’Farrell.

Share this story