Peer Perspectives – September
Housekeeping is often called the “heart of the house” — the quiet force that ensures every arrival feels like home and every stay ends with satisfaction. In celebration of Housekeeping Week, and in the spirit of Newport’s 35th anniversary, we’re proud to share the stories of three team members whose dedication reminds us why hospitality is built on people first.
Ramona – Fairfield Inn & Suites Fayetteville North
For Ramona, being part of the Fairfield team feels like family. As a leader within housekeeping, she takes pride in knowing that her work is often a guest’s very first impression.
“I enjoy what I do, and I enjoy doing it right. I like to lead my team by example.”
Her favorite memory captures that same spirit of detail and care. When a guest needed to move rooms, Ramona personally transferred every belonging — hanging clothes, lining up shoes, and recreating the exact setup of the original room. “The guest was blown away,” she said. “It showed me how much attention to detail matters.”
Outside of work, Ramona finds joy in an unexpected place: the arcade. “All of the games get my coins,” she laughed, “and I stack up all the tickets.”
Cheryl – Home2 Suites Fayetteville North
If you’ve stayed at Home2 Suites Fayetteville North, chances are you’ve experienced Cheryl’s handiwork, even if you didn’t realize it. She leads the laundry room with passion, making sure every guest is welcomed with fresh linens and comfort.
“My department, my linens… it’s all a direct reflection of me and the love I put into complete strangers’ stays.”
She also carries inspiration from her favorite animal — elephants. “They always keep their trunks up high. I try to do the same when I’m getting my linens out, even when the load gets heavy.”
For Cheryl, teamwork and joy go hand in hand, especially at holiday celebrations. And when the day is done, she recharges with a sweet Lemonado and the satisfaction of a job well done.
Christina – Homewood Suites Philadelphia/Mt. Laurel
At Homewood Suites Mt. Laurel, Christina has built more than a career — she’s built a second family. “I genuinely enjoy coming to work each day,” she said. “We share laughs and support each other, making it feel like something special.”
“Every interaction is a chance to make a positive impact, and that’s what hospitality is about.”
Her journey has taken her through multiple roles at the hotel, giving her a deep understanding of hospitality. That care shows in the personal touches she leaves for guests, from handwritten notes to remembering favorite setups. One of her proudest moments was earning an outstanding QA score — proof that hard work and consistency shine through.
“When the hotel gets busy, my team and I come together,” Christina added. “We prioritize, pitch in, and keep morale up with encouragement and laughter. It’s all about teamwork.”
Closing Reflection
As Newport celebrates 35 years of Living Hospitality, Ramona, Cheryl, and Christina remind us that anniversaries aren’t just about milestones — they’re about people. The heart of our success beats strongest in the hands of team members like these, whose pride, detail, and care turn everyday moments into lasting hospitality.
Leave a Comment