Birches Spotlight: Janet Salama Serves Up Smiles in Dining Services

Smart. Ambitious. Positive. Energetic. These are just a few words that Dining Services Director Diana Subaciute has used to describe Birches associate Janet Salama. Salama is best known in the Dining Services Department for her hard work, positive attitude, and friendly smile.  “Janet’s kind smile has a positive effect on The Birches residents and co-workers. Residents describe her as very nice, pleasant, helpful, and a personable server,” said Subaciute. 

Salama moved to the United States from Egypt just under two years ago and began working at The Birches shortly after. Salama’s family had all come to the States by the time she made the move; her oldest brother came about 14 years ago and her other brothers and parents followed behind in the years after. Salama says that adjusting to her new life was difficult at first because the United States is so different from Egypt. Her job at The Birches, however, helped smooth the transition. “I’m glad they accept me here,” said Salama. “I like it. Everyday I’m learning something new.” 

Salama has been particularly adept at learning the English language, which she learned in under a year. Salama believes that her co-workers at The Birches were instrumental to her learning process. “When I came I didn’t speak English at all,” said Salama. “The people here helped me a lot— especially at work.” Salama says she would always ask her co-workers what certain words meant or what things were called, and they would teach her. Today, her English has progressed greatly, but she still continues to learn from her fellow Birches associates.

In Egypt, Salama worked as a high school art teacher for many years. Here in the States she has found other outlets for her creativity. She continues to express her artistic side through painting and crafts. She is especially fond of paper crafts like card making. Salama also brings her creative talents to her role at The Birches; as a cook she is able to get creative in the kitchen, and she has taught art classes to Birches residents as well.

According to Subaciute, Salama’s many talents make her a valued addition to the Dining Services team. She is self-motivated, a quick-learner, and a fun person to be around. “Janet is always enthusiastic to enrich herself and develop new skills. She is a smart, ambitious young lady, and I adore her positivity and energetic approach to work,” said Subaciute.