Congratulations to these SHCS staff on retiring, and thank you to each of them for their dedication to UBC throughout their careers.
Congratulations, Josie, on your 25 fantastic years at UBC!
Learn more about Josie
“Josie has worked in every department within Food Services! Starting in 1998 at Totem Park, she later moved to Café Perugia in 2005 and served the Olympics in 2010. From May 2009, she worked at Triple O’s and in 2015 she moved to the retail business at Ike’s Café, Stir it Up and Law Café. In fall 2018, she moved to The Point where worked as a Supervisor. Josie also worked at Sage Catering during the summers of 2022 and 2023. In October 2023, she made the decision to retire.
“Over the years, Josie was also fortunate to work with her husband, Steve, who was the Sous Chef at Place Vanier and retired a few years ago. Her engaging sense of humor, care for others, and passion for food made her a great colleague to many.
“Thank you Josie, for the legacy you leave at UBC—many thousands of meaningful employee and customer interactions. Wishing you a happy and healthy retirement!”
— Levi Semadeni, General Manager, Catering and Restaurants
Congratulations, Tad, on your 24 wonderful years at UBC!
Learn more about Tad
“It is with mixed emotions that we announce the retirement of our colleague and friend, Tad Smaruj. Tad is known for his friendly demeanour and a great sense of humour. He has been the one to brighten up our days with his witty one-liners and infectious laughter. His ability to bring smiles and laughter to the workplace is something we will miss dearly.
“As we bid Tad farewell into this new chapter of his life, we want to express our gratitude for his outstanding contributions to the team. Tad’s hard work, dedication, and the camaraderie he has fostered have made our workplace a better and more enjoyable environment.
“May Tad’s days be filled with laughter, new Bridge partners, and the joy of pursuing his passions.”
— Johanna Webber, Associate Director, Building Services, Facilities and Building Services
Citas’s last day at UBC is December 31, 2023.
Congratulations, Citas, on your 17 excellent years at UBC!
Learn more about Citas
“Citas Ramos came to Food Services in 2006, and she has been a huge asset to all three Starbucks locations. Through her day-to-day interactions with colleagues and customers at Starbucks, Citas has inspired many with her passion, talent and work ethic, in addition to the many students, faculty and staff she has helped—a Starbucks rockstar who we’re going to miss dearly.
“Citas, it has been a privilege to work alongside you and witness your dedication and helpful nature. Your legacy will remain with us even after you leave, and we want to thank you for your many years of service. We all wish you the very best in your retirement.”
— Connie Lay, Retail Manager, Food Services
Congratulations, Billy, on your 14 amazing years at UBC!
Learn more about Billy
“Throughout a distinguished tenure spanning just over 14 years with UBC, Billy Hung contributed his culinary expertise to various units within the organization. His roles included serving as a cook at A&W, showcasing his skills at The Noodle Station at PSP, and making notable contributions at Mercante.
“Billy also played an instrumental role as a key member of the team responsible for preparing and providing 3,000 meals for the Special Olympics in 2010, an accomplishment that underscored both his culinary proficiency and commitment to community engagement.
“Notably, at Mercante, Billy approached his responsibilities with a quiet diligence, ensuring the seamless execution of his duties. While he focused on the task at hand, he also cultivated meaningful connections by engaging in conversations with students and staff, contributing to a positive and collaborative work environment.
“Beyond his affiliations with UBC, Billy’s passion for Chinese cuisine shone through, reflecting his culinary preferences and expertise. Additionally, his commitment to the health care sector was evident through his years of service at the hospital, further highlighting the breadth of his professional experience and dedication.”
— Jody Ropas, Retail Operations Manager, Food Services
Congratulations, Tracy, on your 13 incredible years at UBC!
Learn more about Tracy
“Over the course of a remarkable 13-year tenure with Food Services, Tracy Sun demonstrated unwavering dedication and proficiency in her roles. Tracy deftly navigated culinary responsibilities, showcasing her versatility by contributing her expertise at both A&W and Bento Sushi. During her time at Bento Sushi, Tracy found fulfillment in the precision and artistry of early morning sushi rolling.
“Beyond her professional pursuits, Tracy values and prioritizes her personal life, particularly cherishing moments spent with her husband.”
— Jody Ropas, Retail Operations Manager, Food Services
