Summer Spotlight: Ralph Baker
Keystone Food Service believes we can all make a difference in the lives of students. To do this, it takes a fantastic team full of talented people. This summer, we want to feature a few Keystone managers who have made a difference in the schools they serve.
Ralph Baker serves as Keystone’s Northwest Regional Manager. He began working at Keystone in 2015, after serving for 34 years as a teacher and coach. When Ralph started with Keystone, he was a District Manager, before becoming a Customer Service and Personnel Manager. As Northwest Regional Manager, he oversees schools in Aline-Cleo, Alva, Billings, Covington-Douglas, Drummond, Fairview, Garber, Kremlin, Okeene, Pond Creek-Hunter, South Barber, and Waukomis.
Ralph’s daily duties are predicated on relationships. He must develop strong relationships with the kitchen staff, students, teachers, support staff, and school administration. Although no two days are the same, Ralph finds his best days occur when all involved are learning, listening, and laughing. “Especially when it is me,” Ralph commented.
When asked about challenges, Ralph acknowledges that each problem is unique to the day and location. Often, they are challenges that occur once and may never happen again. Ralph is quick to recognize that many of the difficulties he might face are already solved by his two Food and Inventory managers, Sherry and Terry.
Recalling his previous years in the school system, Ralph understands why it is essential for students to have proper meals. “While teaching, I saw first hand how important the lunch period was for numerous students. I want to help ensure that it is a positive experience where students are served good food in a friendly atmosphere.”
Ralph considers Keystone’s commitment to the Grandmother Standard as a value that truly makes a difference in the schools he serves. Ralph believes it is something he must live up to every day, “If we’re going to talk the talk, we better walk the walk. I especially value standard #5, “We will take time to make our customers feel special daily.” When we accomplish this, I feel just as special myself.”