More Than a Meal: The FLIK Dining Team

Ravenscroft seniors are asked to choose a meaningful way to spend three weeks in May as a capstone experience and designate at least 30 hours to an internship or community service. 

Recognizing that our very own food services team’s hard work and service to the community are often overlooked, Anthony Omonte ’25 chose to highlight Ravenscroft’s very own FLIK Dining Team for his senior project. Anthony celebrates FLIK’s contributions in a visible and lasting way, hoping others will see the important role they play as a part of the Ravenscroft experience. Below is his story.

The FLIK Dining team shows up early, works hard and supports the school community in ways that go far beyond what we typically notice. This project is my way of saying thank you–not just personally, but publicly–and helping others see how much work and care go into something we experience every day.

For 22 years, Doris has worked in food services at Ravenscroft. Her day starts at 6:20 a.m. and ends around 2:30 p.m., and in that time, she washes dishes, keeps everything spotless and helps make Holding Hall’s (Lower School) dining hall feel warm and welcoming. I will always remember the positive energy she brought to the Upper School when she ran the snack bar my freshman year. When I asked her what she loves most about her job, she didn't even hesitate: “Definitely watching y'all grow up and graduate.”

Deborah, another member of the FLIK team, has been at Ravenscroft for two years. Twice a day, she runs the coffee bar in Keim Center and then spends the rest of her time helping wherever she's needed — from dishwashing to prepping food. “What people might not realize is that we are all trained to do everything,” she said. “Any of us could jump into

a different station if needed. We really work together as a team.” She added that it's not just a job, “We’re like a family. We have fun. We've got each other’s backs.”

When I asked what makes their days a little better, both Doris and Deborah said the students. “Just seeing you all grow and hearing about your success makes it worth it,” said the two. Deborah told me she thinks everyone should work in food service at least once, just to understand the pace, the pressure and the pride that goes into it.

The vibe? Deborah said if she could play any music through the dining hall speakers, it would be Bob Marley. “Because he makes everyone feel bright,” she said. (Chris Stapleton comes in at a close second.) 

Doris said that her go-to off-the-clock snack is anything that gives her a little boost of energy before heading home.

To understand the bigger picture, I also spoke with Director of Dining Services Pavleta Alexieva. She explained that FLIK Independent School Dining is a subdivision of The Compass Group —  one of the world’s largest food service companies. The business originally started as FLIK Hospitality Group, serving law firms and conference centers, before beginning to serve independent schools like Ravenscroft. 

FLIK has been a part of our community since 2017, and their focus is fresh, from-scratch meals-- nothing frozen, nothing overly processed. Pavleta also noted that the dining spaces aren’t referred to as cafeterias — they're dining halls. “It just sounds more prestigious,” she said, emphasizing the importance of creating a space that feels warm, welcoming, and intentional. 

To give students a chance to share their own appreciation, I set up a thank-you note station in the lobby of Murphy Hall Upper School. With cards, Sharpies, stickers, and a drop box, it was simple but powerful. 

Dozens of students took a moment to reflect and say thank you. Every note was a reminder that small acts of kindness, which we receive from the FLIK team every day, can make someone feel seen. 

This project reminded me that it's easy to overlook people who do quiet, essential work, but those are often the ones who shape a community the most. I hope this helps the FLIK Dining team feel recognized, valued, and appreciated. I also hope it reminded others that expressing genuine gratitude matters more than we sometimes think.