Monica Chowaniec and her 81-member custodial team make a difference every day on campus by ensuring that College of DuPage is a comfortable learning and working environment for students, faculty and staff.
As COD's Custodial Operations Manager, Chowaniec's 30 years of experience is evident in the pride she takes in her work.
"I'm always thinking about the students and how I can make COD a place where you want to spend your time," she said.
Before working at COD, Chowaniec served as manager of custodial operations at Community First Medical Center, where she was responsible for maintaining a safe, clean and sanitary environment for patients.
When her son began studying at COD, she began attending various programs and special events on campus and came to love the energy and atmosphere.
"I became attracted to the character and standards of COD, so when an appropriate position became available three years ago, I immediately applied—and I'm so glad I did."
In her current position, Chowaniec said she enjoys the uniquely challenging days that keep her job fresh.
"As a custodial team, we do everything we can to facilitate a clean, pleasant environment for students, faculty and staff," she said. "There's also fantastic camaraderie on campus and I relish that. And, of course, a lot of credit goes to the custodial team. They are amazing individuals and seeing all the hard work they do for the College is incredibly uplifting."
Chowaniec enjoys providing a clean study environment to help students succeed.
"COD students are driven, hardworking and inspiring," she said. "COD has given me the greatest opportunity to make sure that our school shines inside and out."