| Contact |
Jessilyn Rich
|
|---|
Salem State University’s Viking Dining team is proud to have 2016 alumni Caitlin DeVine as their Marketing Manager. With a strong passion for creativity and a deep connection to her alma mater, Caitlin's role involves much more than just promotional work—she plays a vital part in student engagement, bringing unique events and initiatives to campus.
Caitlin’s journey with Salem State began as a student herself which offers a unique perspective to better serve students. Graduating in 2016, she initially pursued a career in teaching but quickly discovered her true calling in the world of video editing and graphic design. “I was drawn to the creative side of things,” Caitlin says. “Every day is different—whether it’s creating graphics for social media, editing videos, or designing logos for merchandise. It’s a role where I can truly express myself.”Now, Caitlin is not just working in marketing—she’s using her creativity to ensure students enjoy their time on campus, just like she did.
One of Caitlin’s proudest achievements has been launching the employee recognition program, which aim to celebrate the hardworking Viking Dining staff. Inspired by her time working at Walt Disney World, where employee recognition was central to creating a positive work environment, Caitlin wanted to bring a similar program to SSU.
“The goal is to make sure our staff feels seen and appreciated for their hard work,” Caitlin explains. Through “THX:) For Making My Day”, students and faculty can send shout-outs to staff who go above and beyond. Caitlin takes these shout outs a step further by printing out certificates, presenting in-season flowers, and writing personal notes of appreciation for the nominees. The program has been a hit, with one staff member even sharing, "I didn’t think people noticed me." Caitlin shared. The other program she put together was the KUDOS program, where staff members recognize their colleagues, has further fostered a sense of camaraderie among the team.
For Caitlin, the best part of her job is seeing students showcase their creativity. Whether it’s a backyard bash with t-shirt tie-dying or a gingerbread cookie decorating event during the holiday season, Caitlin loves seeing what students come up with. “The students here are incredibly talented, and no two items are ever the same,” she says. These events not only allow students to express themselves but also create lasting memories of their time at SSU.
Caitlin’s advice to students goes beyond just academics. Drawing from her own experience of battling illness while balancing schoolwork during her junior year at Salem State, Caitlin emphasizes the importance of vocalizing needs and seeking help when necessary. “Be vocal and honest when you are struggling,” she advises. “Your professors, friends, and family want to help, but they can’t if they don’t know what you’re going through.” She also encourages students to be kind to one another. “You never know what someone else might be going through,” Caitlin says, quoting Maya Angelou: “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.”
Outside of work, Caitlin keeps busy with a variety of activities. She’s still passionate about dancing, especially tap, and even choreographed a few dances for the Repertory Dance Theater during her time at SSU. She also enjoys playing hockey in an all-women’s league, a sport she’s loved since childhood. In addition to these hobbies, Caitlin has exciting personal milestones to celebrate—she recently got engaged and became an aunt for the first time.
Whether through her creative initiatives, dedication to student engagement, or heartwarming approach to staff recognition, Caitlin DeVine’s passion for making a positive impact on her community is clear. Her personal journey, both as a student and a professional, reflects a deep commitment to ensuring that everyone—students and staff alike—feels seen, heard, and appreciated at Salem State University.