In recognition of National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), UD Dining Services proudly celebrates the contributions of team members of all abilities and reaffirms its commitment to inclusive hiring.

Dining Services currently employs individuals with disabilities across campus dining locations, thanks to partnerships with organizations the Specialized Training Program with Food Bank of Delaware, Learning for Independence with the Cecil County School of Technology, Elwyn of Wilmington, University of Delaware Center for Disabilities Studies and Chimes Delaware. These collaborations help create meaningful employment opportunities that empower individuals and enrich the UD community.

This month, Dining Services is also proud to spotlight its partnership with Popcorn for the People, a nonprofit that employs adults with autism and disabilities. Their gourmet popcorn is available in the Pencader and Harrington POD Markets, offering students a delicious way to support inclusive employment.

As part of the NDEAM celebration, Dining Services is featuring Cashmere Constant, a dedicated team member at Caesar Rodney Dining Hall. Cashmere works at the On Deck pizza station, where her energy and passion for food shine daily. On Oct. 27, she will host a Chef Spotlight at the On Deck station, featuring her signature dish: jerk chicken mac and cheese.

“I love what I do,” Cashmere said. “Being part of this team has helped me grow, and I’m excited to share my food and my story.” Join us in celebrating Cashmere and all the incredible individuals who make UD Dining a place where everyone belongs.