On Thursday evening, for the first time in 49 years, the Price Dining Hall was closed while school was in session. That’s an impressive run, so there must have been something important to cause the streak to end.

“We have a saying on the basketball team that goes, ‘It’s the little things that add up to the big things.’ And thanks to all of you, we the students are able to do the big things in life.” So said Daniel Hernandez ’13 who led the organizational efforts for the first ever Webb Appreciation Day for the schools’ staff.

Along with their families, close to two dozen members of the custodial, kitchen, maintenance, and security staff attended a buffet dinner served by Webb students in the Hooper Student Center. They were recognized for their devotion and exceptional work with a certificate and photograph of the entire school community.

“It was my hope in organizing this event that students and the Webb community could show our appreciation for all the hard work and dedication each and every one you do for us each and every day,” Daniel said during his remarks.

For the last two weeks, Daniel and nearly 50 classmates have been busy fundraising and organizing for Thursday’s event. “Really, I’ve got to give credit to Albert Xu. If you are trying to raise money on campus, he’s the guy you want working for you,” Daniel said while hosing off a soapy vehicle during a student-run car wash last weekend. The students did so well with their finances, they have a great head start towards next year’s event.

Adam Walker, Director of Facilities, summed the evening up this way: “This event really does embody what The Webb Schools is all about when we set out to create men and women of character. Thank you from all of us for hosting a wonderful event tonight and showing your appreciation towards all of us.”