Fordham University’s new Director of Dining Business Operations and Contract Management, Orla Fitzsimons, is set to replace Deming Yaun, former Dining Services Contract Liaison, who retired in April.
Despite the amended title, Keith Eldredge, associate vice president and dean of Student Services, notes that the position will not change significantly when transitioning from Yaun to Fitzsimons.
“The position is the primary point liaison with Ram Hospitality to support the provision of an outstanding dining experience at all venues across the Fordham campuses,” said Eldredge.
Fitzsimons started her career in New York City, working in hospitality and recruitment. She did a brief stint in California for a year before moving back to Ireland, where she raised her two daughters. In 2011, Fitzsimons moved back to New York to work in higher education, and found her way to Fordham.
In her previous position in higher education, she noted achievements in working with students to bring positive change to their campus.
“I led initiatives for enhanced meal plan offerings, introduced innovative dining concepts, managed major construction projects and collaborated closely with student leaders,” Fitzsimons said. When asked for a specific example, she brought up a successfully-changed meal plan format, where she collaborated directly with students to tailor the arrangement to their needs.
Fitzsimons stepped into her role on Wednesday, Sept. 3, but shared that she had visited Fordham’s campuses well in advance. She highlighted her experience during opening day, reflecting on the welcoming environment created by the administration and upperclassmen for the first-years moving in.
When asked about why she wanted to work at Fordham, she not only commented on this encounter, but also on the university’s mission of cura personalis. “Fordham aligns with my background and values and my experience working in higher education,” she said.
Fitzsimons was especially happy to see this environment because she herself is a mother, and one of her daughters is an undergraduate student. She references the intersection of her parental and employee perspectives as being extremely applicable to her new position at Fordham. With knowledge of both sides, she is able to see the resources available while noting potential challenges and solutions.
Fitzsimons emphasized her goal of accessibility to the overall student body. She wants to make sure that she is available to help any students to understand the resources they have access to, as well as working directly with student organizations. “By working closely with student groups, campus leaders and the broader Fordham community, I aim to be a partner in all aspects of dining and catering,” said Fitzsimons. She noted that while change takes time, she always wants to be working towards a resolution and a common goal.
Fitzsimons shared additional information about her plans for the future at Fordham and her objectives to complete under her position. “My goal is to enhance the overall dining experience by introducing innovative, student-focused concepts and creating operational efficiencies,” she said. “I am committed to engaging with the students, faculty, and staff to ensure our dining services reflect the values and expectations of the Fordham community … Open communication will be key as I work to shape a dining experience that is inclusive, forward-thinking, and uniquely Fordham.”
Fitzsimons’ office is on the Rose Hill campus, but she shared that she will be at the Lincoln Center campus at least once a week, since her position covers both campuses.
As per her request, the Fordham Ram is including her email address ([email protected]). She urges any student with questions to contact her for assistance.
