Tita Shirley
Illustration by Noelle Mitcham
Article by Reese Borchert
NEWBERG, Ore. – Behind the scenes at George Fox University (GFU), many teams work to optimize the student experience. One employee is a part of two of these teams, Plant Services and Bon Appétit. Shirley Eckerdt finds her title goes beyond just “groundskeeper” and “kitchen staff”.
With the recent falling of leaves, Eckerdt can be found around the Newberg campus with a rake or leaf blower. Another common location would be Canyon Commons, as she dines and chats with the other staff there during her breaks. Because she lives thirty seconds away and clocks eighty hours a week between her positions, Eckerdt sees GFU as an extension of her home.
“We're neighbors,” says Eckerdt. She pulls weeds and completes other landscaping tasks with pride, not only because of the proximity but also because she wishes for students and visiting families to think the campus looks nice, feels safe and that the GFU community doesn’t neglect any duty.
“It’s kind of like a chain,” says Eckerdt. “What benefits me benefits others.”
When asked about the highlights of the job, Eckerdt says it’s the students who attend GFU. She recounts how she connected with a few underclassmen women because of their shared Filipino heritage.
“I am so grateful to have met Tita Shirley,” says Hana Mai Elopre-Thesenga. Eckerdt was able to cook the authentic Sinigang and Lumpia dishes for them to enjoy while they attended university, living far away from their families.“Her cooking helped heal my homesickness.”
Besides maintaining campus grounds, Eckerdt cultivated roots for these students by serving as their “campus auntie.” Eckerdt comforted the out-of-state students with delivered meals and extended conversations about anything they may be facing.
“She’s created such a safe and welcoming space that feels like a true home away from home,” says Cyzrus Romero. “I don’t think she realizes how much of an impact she’s had on me but I’m really thankful for her presence in my life.”
“It's always a good day, even on a bad day,” says Eckerdt. “It's only bad when you die.”
Eckerdt foresees herself working for GFU long into the future, but also looks forward to her winter holidays, as this is the best time for her to travel. She loves to share about her previous destinations and adventures and can’t wait to add more.
“I want to go to Sweden and Iceland. Oh, and the Netherlands! Maybe I'll take my son there,” says Eckerdt. This year, she hopes to spend her birthday in Venice and cruise off the coast of Asia around Japan during cherry blossom season.
Wherever you may find her, Eckerdt will be identifiable, carrying a mug that reads “Shirley” and leaving a trace of the sensation of home.
