One of Starbucks’ long-standing employees, Donna Singleton, has retired.
Donna had worked at Starbucks for nearly 14 years and was a well-known employee on campus. She would greet students and faculty at the cash register as well as make drinks.
The Shield reached out to Rebecca Diamond, director of dining services, to comment on Donna’s retirement. Diamond said she was unable to comment on a former employee.
Many students who frequent Starbucks are saddened by Donna’s departure.
Gracie Gilley, sophomore nursing major, said she was unaware Donna had retired.
“I didn’t even know that, but that’s so sad,” Gilley said. “She always made my day when I was out there.”
She said students will miss Donna for her personality and energy.
“She just always could bring a smile to people’s faces,” Gilley said. “I appreciate her personality and energy.”
Allison Schawitsch, junior exercise science major, said everyone loved Donna.
“I know that everyone loved her,” Schawitsch said.
Schawitsch said Donna’s personality would often make students who were far from home feel like they were at home.
“I think her positive energy has made the USI campus feel more at home for everyone who walks into Starbucks,” Schawitsch said. “Whoever sees her on campus, they always see or know who she is. They always bring a smile to everyone’s faces.”
Meagan Miller, senior Spanish teaching major, said she was also unaware Donna had retired.
“That’s pretty sad because I feel like she’s really iconic here at Starbucks at USI,” Miller said. “Everyone who knows, knows who she is. She just brightens up your day.”
Miller said she has seen people love her even through social media, and she is a well-known person on campus.
Miller said she has attended USI for a few years and has always seen Donna at Starbucks.
“She’s always super positive and is making jokes, having fun, so to see her retire is really sad,” Miller said.
Molly Newton, senior math teaching major, said Donna is a Starbucks legend.
“I think that she’s a Starbucks legend,” Newton said. “It’s kind of sad to see her go, but I hope she’s happy. I think just the fact that you asked me if I knew Donna from Starbucks just really shows her impact to students who really puts a smile on people’s faces.”
“I just want to thank her for being a joy to so many others, including myself on campus,” Newton said.
Miller said Donna’s personality is different from other employees on campus.
“I feel like a lot of people at the different dining locations on campus are usually like, I understand, but they’re really tired,” Miller said. “They’re working, usually they’re students, so they have classes and they’re working.”
“She just is always glad to be there,” Miller said. “Always glad to help students, get them their drinks, and make it fun. Donna, we love you. You’ve been a great employee at Starbucks. You always make the best drinks, and I’ll miss seeing you on campus and just your positive attitude.”
