Cassandra Robinson joined UTC in 2004. She currently works in the “Home Zone” food line in Crossroads Dining Hall. Photo by Angela Foster.
Since 2016, Cassandra Robinson—also known as Ms. Cassandra across campus—has been a friend to everyone who visits Crossroads Dining Hall at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga.
Robinson first joined UTC in 2004 to work in the University Center. Throughout her years on campus, she has been more than just a valuable staff member—she is also a support to countless students. Whether offering advice, giving a hug or showing up to students’ events and graduation ceremonies, Robinson is always there for “her” students.
Robinson currently works in the “Home Zone” food line at Crossroads. Here’s what she had to say about her role at UTC:
What does it mean to you to work in an environment with college students?
“It means a lot because I’m a people person. I got it from my parents. Coming up as a young African American female in a two-parent home, it was all about being family-oriented, learning more about your values and just trying to treat people the way you want to be treated.
“I know a lot of kids that come from thousands of miles to come to UTC and they’re looking for family and long-lasting friendship. I have become a mother to a lot of students. I don’t look at color as a barrier. God created us all equal and I’m very high on diversity. I’ve had exchange students that are from Japan, China, Russia, England and Africa. They enlighten me on some things and share their experience. I want to get to know their culture. When they come, I tell them all the time, ‘Welcome to the American soil.’”
What advice do you usually give students?
“You’re going to gain friendships and join organizations. I tell them all the same: get out. Do not stay in that dorm room. There’s nothing wrong with studying, but you’ve got to come out of those four corner walls. College is where you might meet your soulmate or make friends who will be with you for life.
“Another thing I tell my kids is when they come in that door, it’s test-taking time. Your parents aren’t here to see it, but you’ve got to get an 85 or above. I don’t sell it for any less because I know what you can do—and no one is better than the other. If you see a fallen soldier that can’t get up, I need you to tap them on the shoulder and say, ‘I got you, my brother. I got you, my sister.’”
How do you help students feel comfortable and welcomed at UTC?
“When students invite me to different events here on campus, I try to be there because their parents can’t always be here.
“When the kids walk through the door, I tell them all the time, ‘Remember what your parents taught you.’ Sometimes they never had to value a dollar or a penny. They don’t know how to say, ‘How can I take this and weather a storm?’ I don’t push my religion on anyone, but if a child comes up to me and says, ‘Can you pray for me?’ I will come and pray for you.
Cassandra Robinson
“To the new class coming in, I want them to know that when you come into the dining hall, you are welcome. This is your dining hall. It’s not mine or Aramark’s. This is UTC and it’s your school.”
Speaking of making students feel at home, food can be a big part of that comfort. What is your favorite dish to make?
“I’m from deep down south. My grandparents were sharecroppers, so I’m really big on fresh produce. I like to grow and harvest my crops.
“I love making collard greens, and my granddaughter’s favorite dish is when I make oxtails and white rice. One time, I fixed up a special meal for a student. I made a roast with homemade gravy, baked macaroni and fried corn.”
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