This Women's History Month, we're shining a spotlight on two remarkable women who are the heart and soul of dining at Notre Dame. Beyond serving coffees and meals, Ashley Spann and Kelly Nessi are building genuine connections, fostering community, and enriching the lives of everyone they encounter.
Ashley Spann: Cultivating Community at Charron Family Commons
For Ashley Spann, lead retail associate at Charron Family Commons in O'Shaughnessy Hall, Notre Dame isn't just a workplace – it's a family. After 12 years on campus, she's woven herself into the fabric of the University, creating connections that extend far beyond the table.
"Getting into dining at Notre Dame opened doors for me that no other job could ever even come by," Ashley shares. "I really love the fact that I feel like a part of a family."
Her interactions with students are characterized by genuine connection and empathy. "You never truly know anyone until you actually have a conversation with them," Ashley says, emphasizing the importance of human connection in a fast-paced environment. During the busiest times, Ashley’s philosophy is to extend kindness and patience.
Ashley's dedication goes beyond simply serving food. "I feel like I contribute to the daily morale of the campus community. Oftentimes a simple 'Hi, how are you?' is all someone needs to hear in order to make it through their day." Her work has also fostered significant personal growth. "Personally, the University has helped me grow as an individual in many ways - mentally, professionally, and financially."
Kelly Nessi: Building Bridges at Hagerty Family Cafe
At Hagerty Family Cafe in Duncan Student Center, Kelly Nessi, lead retail associate, is creating a global community, one interaction at a time. Her passion for connecting with people from diverse backgrounds is evident in her work.
"Meeting and interacting with people from different countries is a great part of the job. The sense of community, and the connection built with my co-workers, who are a family to me,” says Kelly.
Kelly's approach to student interactions is one of mutual respect and learning. "Working here has brought me a lot of personal growth. I’m part of their human interactions and someone they can count on bringing them a little bit of happiness, even if it only comes in the form of a warm coffee cup."
The camaraderie with her team is a source of joy. "The relationship I've been able to build with my coworkers helps me keep up with the daily hustle. Our days are mostly filled with laughs, and I know I can rely on such a strong team."
Ashley and Kelly's stories highlight the invaluable role women play in shaping the campus experience - creating a home away from home, one interaction at a time.
"Ashley and Kelly embody the spirit of Notre Dame Dining — creating a welcoming space where every interaction matters,” said Bin An, senior retail director. “Their dedication, warmth, and ability to connect with students and colleagues make a lasting impact on our campus community. We are incredibly grateful for their hard work and the positivity they bring to our team every day."
Originally published by at experience.nd.edu on February 25, 2025.