Issue link: http://www.wacmagazine.com/i/303138
20 | Washington Athletic Club Magazine | MAY 2014 Teamworks JANUARY DEREK LAYTON MEMBER SERVICES ASSOCIATE FEBRUARY JANET ARROYO CATERING SALES ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Janet Arroyo spent her first four years at the WAC working as a Torchy's hostess. By the summer of 2012, the Catering team wooed her away. She now coordinates private dining and meetings in the restaurants for members and guests. "Janet jumps at any chance to help out a member and is a natural problem-solver," says former Catering Sales Manager Amanda Brown, née Schwanitz. Director of Catering Rick Cardona says Janet is always ready to accept a new challenge. "She is very worthy of this award," he says. No matter what she does, she's a pleasure to be around, Vice President Food & Beverage Peter Christian adds. "She is a delight to work with," he says. "And she continues to learn and grow." Derek Layton started at the WAC in 2010 as a Guest Service Agent at the Inn at the WAC. Three years later, he took over his current position at Member Services and has become the all-important first face members see when they arrive on the 9th Floor. "He jumped into his new role," Managing Editor Darrick Meneken says. "He is always ready with a helping hand." Member Services Director Michelle Van Slack agrees. "Derek is dependable, kind, and always has an eye for service," she says. Derek wants to ensure members have an outstanding experience. "I love seeing members' new faces and old faces every day and assuring their experience here is memorable," he says. Vice President Membership & Marketing Michelle Pinson says Derek is a customer-service natural. "He's genuine with each and every member," she says. "He pays attention to the little details that make members feel valued and heard." MARCH HEIDI DABBS TORCHY'S LEAD SERVER TEAM MEMBER OF THE MONTH Heidi Dabbs is often the go-to person for any help needed on the 2nd Floor. In addition to her server duties, she trains new hires and has filled in as bartender and manager. "Heidi has been an exceptional employee," Restaurant Operations Manager Ryan Bear says. "She is knowledgeable, always on time, and completely dependable." When the restaurant managerial staff faced a shortage last year, Heidi stepped up to help lead. "She has an eye for things we can do better, and is proactive with making suggestions for the betterment of the team," Ryan says. Now in her 14th year at the WAC, Heidi says her favorite part of the job is the lifetime friendships she has made with many members.