It’s not possible to be a part of the Bowdoin community and not be by blown away by one of Connie Michaud’s dazzling smiles. A legendary figure in Bowdoin Dining history, Michaud has charmed staff and students alike. However, her history predates her employment as a card checker – Michaud visited Bowdoin often while working for another company in Brunswick. Little did she know her frequent excursions to campus for lunch would eventually lead to her encore career swiping cards at Thorne Dining Hall.
Michaud has been living in Maine for most of her life. Before Bowdoin, she worked at Norton Insurance and Financial Services. Her job at Norton Insurance involved many different duties, Michaud found she had a passion for people. She was hired as a receptionist and maintained that position until her retirement. Then, in September 2010, Michaud was hired as a weekend card checker at Thorne.
As the card checker, she gets to know a lot of members of the community, including Bowdoin staff and faculty. However, the job comes with its fair share of surprises! Several years ago, she said, “a gentleman came in and wanted me to scan his wallet, which contained his ID. I told him that I had to see his card. Was I ever embarrassed when I looked at his ID. I said to him, ‘Nice to meet you, President Mills!’”
Though the job comes with many perks, Michaud said the best part of her job is getting to know the students. She said fondly, “I just love the interaction and hearing about their plans for the future. Bowdoin has the best students! I like to think of them as my grandchildren. I treat them the same way I would like my grandchildren to be treated when they go off to college in a few more years.” Michaud said she keeps in contact with many students after they graduate but absolutely loves it when they come to visit. “Students seem to come back to visit more on the weekends, so I get to see them at that time,” she said. “I always collect my hugs then. Bowdoin students always give the best hugs!”
Michaud’s love for Bowdoin students is definitely reciprocated. Raleigh McElvery ’16 said, “I look forward to seeing Connie whenever I swipe in. She always has something cheery to say, asks how you’re doing or is sporting some fantastic holiday-themed attire and nails.”
Sawyer Bowman ’15 said, “It’s always a delight to walk into Thorne and see Connie’s bright smile and hear her exclaim, ‘Happy Friday!’ I look forward to it every week! I’ll really miss seeing her when I graduate.”