For the past 20 years, Darlene Simpson has worked as a cashier for Sodexo at The Grid, a convenience store on the bottom floor of the Elliott Student Union. She can be found at the checkout counter from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. every Monday through Thursday, smiling and chatting with students. 

  “It’s a small, five-minute interaction,” said Kyle Thompson, a graduate student who comes through Darlene’s line three to four times per week. “But just, being able to ask her how she’s doing and have that short, little conversation, it adds a boost of morale to my day.”

  According to Concessions Manager Andy Lasater, who works with Simpson and has known her for 25 years, many students shop at The Grid from their freshman to senior year, allowing Simpson to form meaningful relationships with them.

  “There’s one guy in a wheelchair,” said Simpson. “He knows that I always get his fork and napkins for him because they’re in a place where he can’t reach them. I had a little brother that had polio and he passed away when he was 13. I always see Eddie, my little brother, in these kids that come through.”

  Simpson says that she makes an effort to improve students’ moods by greeting everyone who comes through her line, even if they don’t reciprocate. Her favorite part of the job is when The Grid is busy and many students pass through.

  “At my age, I think that you should have a purpose for getting up in the morning,” said Simpson. “And my purpose is to come to work and interact with you, students and faculty and staff.” 

  Over the years, Simpson has gained a positive reputation on campus for her friendly demeanor. According to Lasater, Simpson has won recognition awards through Sodexo for her service.

  “Darlene is a great person. This is my last year [at the University of Central Missouri] and whenever I leave, I’m gonna remember those moments and cherish those memories,” said Thompson.

  Before working at The Grid, Simpson worked for a company called UNITOG for 36 years, sewing uniforms for the post office and overseeing quality control. After her plant closed down, she aimed to become a secretary but was disadvantaged in the hiring process due to her age. Eventually, a friend told her about a kitchen job at UCM, and after a few years, Simpson moved to her current position as a cashier. 

  Simpson sees her job as a blessing and feels that her work is appreciated on campus. If she could tell all UCM students one thing, it would be that she appreciates them in return.  

 “I really appreciate all the compliments they give me, because it does make me really feel good when you all come through and say, ‘I appreciate you,’ or, ‘I come to you because you’re my favorite,’” said Simpson.

  Although Simpson could retire, she prefers to keep working, as her job allows her to be outgoing and stay outside the house. 

“I keep saying I’m going to quit, but I never do,” said Simpson.