The University is my second home. I feel so blessed to have the privilege to work here. Fr. Ralph Haag, rector of St. Edward's Hall, has the toughest job: It's a lot of work to take care of all the St. Ed men. I don't think people realize how much work comes with that kind of responsibility. He is a friend to the people that are suffering and always helps the poor. He treats everyone like how your family members would treat you. Fr. Ralph is truly the prime example of how Catholic priests and people should act all the time! The St. Edward's men respect and love him like a father — he is a father figure in their life. When freshmen move in, their parents look worried as they say goodbye to the boys. However, I comfort them by saying your son is in good hands with Fr. Ralph. St. Edward's men always carry themselves like true gentlemen all the time. I have seen this with my own eyes for the past six and a half years.
Last but not least, I would like to thank my new supervisor, Michael Kasalo. Michael is also a ND grad and lived in St. Edward's Hall. He has treated me with respect and kindness, is very understanding, always willing to listen and helps his employees out when he can, even with his busy schedule. You don't see that every day anywhere else. I have waited almost seven years for a supervisor like Michael; because of Michael, I finally have peace at work. Because of his caring and loving attitude he has towards all of his employees, I can easily say he also helps me and gives me peace at home as well. I call that heaven on earth. I would not have that without Notre Dame. I am the luckiest person on earth to have the best supervisor ever. And not only does the University of Notre Dame have the best priest and supervisor in the world, it also has the best crew leader as well: her name is Emma Owen. We love, respect and protect each other. We are ND!
Maem Detaksone
St. Edward's Hall worker
Sept. 6
