Grounds Department
The Grounds Department employs nine Grounds Workers, one Lead Grounds Worker, and one Grounds Foreman. During the summer we hire several temporary workers to supplement our staff. Our primary responsibility is maintaining the acreage that comprises the Wheaton campus as well as the Athletic Fields.
The Grounds Department mows over 50 acres of grass and is responsible for snow and ice removal and sanding during the winter months. Some of our other responsibilities include rubbish and recycling pick-up, pest control, maintaining a fleet of 17 vehicles and over 100 pieces of equipment, moving furniture and supplies, cleaning drains and gutters, caring for trees, plants and shrubs, and assisting motorists with jump-starts. Last year we completed over 392 work orders and numerous other requests for service.
The average length of service for a Grounds Department employee is 11.5 years. In fact, one employee has worked at the college for 33 years! Three Grounds Workers have a pesticide license and four others are certified in pressurized water fire extinguisher maintenance. Most department employees have hydraulic equipment licenses. Grounds Workers regularly attend training sessions and workshops related to our many responsibilities.
Who does that? The Grounds Department
(We even adorn the grave with special flowers on Commencement Day!)
Everyone's four-legged friend!
Dee the dog joined the Wheaton community in the summer of 1998. She is a 12 year old border collie from North Carolina who is specially trained in humanely chasing geese by land or by Peacock Pond from the campus. Dee spends her free time at home with one of the Grounds Workers.
If you have any questions or need assistance from the Grounds Department, please contact Kathy Cotter at ext. 3876 or Grounds Foreman Steve Kelly at ext 5632.