Building a Culture of Safety at Auxiliary Services
At Syracuse University Auxiliary Services (which encompasses Campus Dining and several other departments), we are committed to creating a proactive safety culture that protects our students, staff, and guests. We have taken meaningful steps to embed safety into every aspect of our operations — from food preparation and facility maintenance to training and emergency preparedness.
Key Initiatives and Ongoing Progress:
- Elevating Standards: We have aligned our practices with leading industry standards and regulations, with clear protocols tailored to the unique needs of a university dining environment.
- Proactive Risk Management: Through routine safety walks, updated standard operating procedures, and implementation of new digital tools, we are identifying and addressing potential risks before they become incidents.
- Policy Development: We’ve introduced a comprehensive Food Safety Policy that supports consistency across all dining operations and reflects a strong commitment to continuous improvement.
- Staff Empowerment: Through targeted training and clear communication, we’re equipping our team members to recognize safety as a shared responsibility and take ownership of safe practices in their day-to-day work.
- Measurable Results:
- Across its 24 locations, Campus Dining had just one critical safety violation last year during an Onondaga County Health Department Inspection (an equipment failure that was immediately corrected) – the result of focused oversight, clear expectations, and consistent follow-through.
- Our human safety efforts have led to a 78% decrease in workplace incident rates since 2022, demonstrating the effectiveness of our prevention-based approach and safety awareness campaigns.
- Technology and Innovation: From digital incident tracking to improved kitchen systems like RTI Oil Management, we’re modernizing our infrastructure with safety in mind.
We believe safety is not a one-time achievement but an ongoing commitment. Our goal is to ensure that every member of our team feels confident, supported, and prepared — because a safe environment is the foundation for excellent service.
About Zach Papaleoni
Zach Papaleoni serves as the Safety Manager for Syracuse University Auxiliary Services, where he leads initiatives to strengthen both food safety and workplace safety across all dining and support operations. With a proactive, systems-based approach, Zach has been instrumental in driving a culture shift toward accountability, prevention, and continuous improvement.
Since joining the University, Zach has introduced clear, enforceable safety policies; modernized incident tracking through digital platforms; and implemented hands-on training programs that engage staff at every level.
Zach’s work bridges regulatory compliance with practical, on-the-ground solutions that keep people safe, kitchens efficient, and services running smoothly. His collaborative style, data-driven decision-making, and deep understanding of food systems make him a trusted leader in the University’s commitment to safety and operational excellence.
Our Vision
“To cultivate a proactive culture of safety and quality across Auxiliary Services, where every action, product, and service reflects our commitment to protecting the well-being of our community. I strive to integrate best practices in food safety and workplace safety into daily operations, empowering teams through education, accountability, and continuous improvement. Through leadership and collaboration, my vision is to elevate Auxiliary Services as a model of excellence in safety, setting standards that inspire confidence and pride in Syracuse University.”
-Zach Papaleoni, Safety Manager, Auxiliary Services