Today is Aramark General Manager Jen Skikas’s last day at Milton. If you see her in Forbes, make sure to say thank you! The Measure did a Q&A with her to reflect on her time at Milton.
Q: What brought you to Milton?
A: Before joining Milton Academy, I served as the Director of Catering at Boston University. This opportunity allowed me to transfer from BU to Milton and be part of the team that launched the dining program in 2022. Part of the appeal of transferring to Milton was the reduced travel time; it is considerably closer to my home, [and the move] would shorten my commute by two hours. I also wanted to be part of a team that opened a location and had the opportunity to develop the program.
Q: What have you thought of your time at Milton?
A: My time at Milton has been rewarding. We have worked to involve the dining team in more than just food service, becoming an integral part of the community. I have enjoyed forming long-lasting relationships with members of the community; it has been a pleasure working with the various student groups and meeting with students across all divisions. I have learned a tremendous amount from the student body.
Q: What did you do while you were here?
A: My official title is the General Manager of Dining Services at Milton Academy. I oversee the dining programs for the Lower School, Middle School, Upper School, Catering, and Snack Bar. What do I really do? I serve as an ambassador, meeting with students and faculty to gather feedback on the dining program and implement improvements where possible. One of my favorite conversations was with a fourth-grade group that said they did not prefer something; instead, they preferred something else. I thought that was a great way to explain something, and I have adapted it into my daily conversations. When I assist with catering, I am responsible for setting up events on campus, including selecting décor, arranging linens, serving food, and then executing the events. At Friends and Family weekend, you saw me at the luncheon, directing parents through the buffet and explaining the dining program to them.
Q: If there was one thing you could've changed about your time at Milton, what would it have been?
A: I do not think I would have changed anything. I believe we have improved the dining program since our first year here, and the team will continue to make improvements with the next manager.
Q: Where are you off to next?
A: I am taking time for myself and my family. I have worked continuously for the past thirty years and am looking forward to a brief break before I embark on the next chapter of my life.
Q: What’s one thing students should know about dining at Milton?
A: If I could leave you with one thought about the dining program, it is that we always have the best interests of the students at heart. The team works hard every day to provide you with a variety of meals that will sustain you throughout the day, using locally sourced ingredients. We work with sustainability to offer you plant-forward luncheons and sustainable foods.