By Emma Bynes
@emma_bynes4
If there’s one thing every Springfield College student can agree on, it’s that they are lucky to experience fall in New England. It is truly beautiful to see all the different colors on trees, and some beautiful sunrise and sunset opportunities overlooking Lake Massasoit. However, there is something students frequently forget about – the cleanup involved with all of our falling leaves done by the Springfield College facilities group.
The facilities department here makes campus look clean and beautiful in what can be both a messy and unpredictable time of year. The Student sat down with head of facilities, Kevin Roy, to learn more about what it takes to keep Springfield’s campus looking pristine.
The Student: How do you prepare for the fall season and anticipate leaf cleanup?
Roy: We start at the end of summer making sure all the equipment is serviced and operating properly. Good working equipment is the key to a successful fall clean up.
The Student: As the weather gets colder, how do you decide which day to turn on heat systems in buildings and residence halls?
Roy: We monitor both interior building temperatures and watch the 10 day forecast. The problem occurs when it is 45 degrees on Tuesday and 70 degrees on Thursday. We need to try and manage those days until we have consistent temperatures.
The Student: Can you estimate how many leaves are cleaned up each year?
Roy: Hard to put a number to it but there are alot of trees!
The Student: What made you choose to work at Springfield College?
Roy: Springfield College is a great place to work. The Facilities team enjoys the challenge of trying to keep things looking and functioning great!
The Student: What is your favorite part of work?
Roy: I enjoy seeing the students take advantage of everything the college has to offer. We alway put the student experience first.
Photo by Braedan Shea / The Student