They wash. They scrub. They vacuum. They shine. They pick up trash. And they do it five days a week, all year long.
They are the University's cleaning staff, and they have, mostly out of sight, been cleaning academic buildings, classrooms and dormitories for years. Graduating fourth years who still remember their first-year living experience probably will remember the housekeeper who cleaned up for them.
James Wesley Jones is one such staff member. During the past year, he and two other housekeepers have cleaned the 12 suites of Webb House and the mess left behind by over 100 first year students.
Jones said he has both a daily and a weekly routine. Some tasks must be done daily, such as cleaning the suite floor, and some weekly, such as cleaning the showers.
Outside of work, Jones, who is from Buckingham, Va., said he loves to fish. He became hooked after seeing his grandfather bring catches home and then went for the first time.
"After I caught the first fish -- you know, the fight and everything -- it was fun," Jones said. "It got me started into it."
Webb residents said they admired both Jones' housekeeping capabilities and his friendliness.
"He's really friendly -- always says hello with a smile," first-year College student Mike O'Brien said. "He's willing to talk whenever -- he's always willing to take a break and chat."
Jones, who started working at the University last fall, said he looks forward to returning.
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