People Spotlight: Pam Flowers, Savannah College of Art and Design
“The SCAD students are AWESOME. They are so polite, always saying ‘please’ and ’thank you, ma’am.’ I like to joke and tease and put a smile on their faces. They’re away from home, and I feel like we are the adult figures in their lives — and they could use the encouragement of the adults they see every day, especially during lunch. Some even express what they are struggling with, and I’ll encourage them as much as I can.”
Pam Flowers, Deli Cook at Savannah College of Art and Design
Pam Flowers works for Bon Appétit as a deli cook at The Hive, Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD) in Savannah, GA. She is the mother of 2, and grandmother to 12. (Interview has been edited and condensed for length.)
“I started working for Bon Appetit less than a year ago, after losing my husband of 19 years and realizing I needed to adapt and survive on my own. I was a jack of all trades: I had a domestic cleaning business, cooked and did some catering, interior decorating, you name it. This was the first place that gave me a chance, and I appreciate it.
I work at the deli most of the time but also float around to the different stations. I like being busy, and continuously moving. I love that. I’m the type of person that needs to burn their energy.
[I like to make] all the salads. Potato salad, egg salad, tuna salad, and fruit salad are my favorites. I make a good deviled egg salad, with pickles and a bit more mustard instead of mayonnaise, and salt and pepper. It gives it just a bit of sweet and then a tangy taste as well. Students love it.
I love that all of the ingredients we use are so fresh, and that the chefs are always going out of their way to teach me. When I ask about something, or they want me to understand something new, they’ll usually bring me into the kitchen and show me.
I can see myself growing and moving into another position here. Maybe one day I can be the one that runs the restaurant!”