Celebrating Our Custodial Services Team

With more than 130 staff covering over 100 buildings across the University of Kentucky campus, Facilities Management Custodial Services ensures that every classroom, lab, hallway, study space, office and restroom are ready for the students, faculty, staff and visitors that rely on them each day. Their work happens quietly, often before the sun rises and long after most people have gone home, but the impact is anything but invisible.  

“Our custodial teams play a vital role in creating a safe, welcoming and well-maintained environment for the entire University of Kentucky community,” said Michael Reyes, custodial superintendent for Areas 1 & 4. “By upholding high standards of cleanliness, safety and attention to detail, we help foster student success, enhance campus pride and support the University's mission of excellence.” 

National Custodian Day takes place this Thursday (Oct. 2) and we want to recognize the individuals whose dedication, care and professionalism help our campus function every day.  

What many don’t see is how much pride and care the custodial team brings to their work and how they connect with those in their areas.  

“It is beautiful when you do your job, connect with different people and are able to be helpful,” said Alla Budnik, custodial superintendent for Areas 5 & 6. “The connections that are created with other people are very important.” 

Reyes agrees: “My team doesn’t just keep our campus clean; they build lasting connections with the people they serve. The relationships our staff develop with students, faculty and coworkers is second to none.” 

The custodial services team is the behind-the-scenes crew that keeps UK running. They strip and wax floors, clean carpets, address hazards, help with events and respond to emergencies. Their work is essential, and it takes skill.  

“Before the sun is up, someone is quietly running a floor machine down an empty hallway,” Reyes said. “Every spill, every mess, every little detail is handled, so the spaces people rely on are safe, clean and ready. It’s invisible work, but it matters. Every day, custodians are the ones who protect health, create comfort and keep life moving smoothly — all without applause, all behind the scenes.” 

Budnik highlights the critical role custodians play in protecting the health and well-being of the campus community.  

“A clean environment is critical for both the physical and mental health of the campus community,” she said. “Air quality improves, illnesses decrease and, most importantly, clean and orderly spaces reduce stress and improve focus and mood. All of this is thanks to the work custodians do every day.”  

Reyes notes the sense of satisfaction that comes with a job well done. 

“There’s something satisfying about stepping back into a classroom or a hallway and seeing it spotless, knowing you made that happen,” he said. 

Many times, custodians are the first to see and act on issues large and small.  

“Our evening custodial staff ensure buildings stay locked after hours and they report any suspicious activity. If something breaks, a light is out, a faucet is leaking or furniture is damaged, they are often the first to report it,” Budnik said. “If someone is lost among the connected buildings near the hospital or Kentucky Clinic, custodians will either direct them to the information desk or take them where they need to go.” 

Custodians are a steady, dependable presence throughout the University.  

“I see how much my team cares about students, patients, staff and visitors,” Budnik said. “They are professional, positive and ready to help. I love what I do, and I love seeing the results of our work. Taking a dirty floor full of scuff marks and making it shine — that's a beautiful thing.” 

While our custodial services staff deserve thanks for their hard work every day, they don’t do their work for recognition.  

“We hope people understand custodial work isn’t ‘just cleaning.’ It’s care, it’s pride and it’s essential,” Reyes said. “When you see a custodian walking around campus or inside your building, please don’t hesitate to say thank you or give them a smile. It’s always nice to hear that our work is appreciated and to feel recognized for what we do.” 

Happy National Custodian Day to all our dedicated custodial staff. Thank you for everything you do!