Kim Moore first walked onto Cleveland State University’s campus nearly three decades ago. A supervisor encouraged her to apply for a job at Viking Express, and what started as a chance opportunity has turned into 26 years of watching CSU grow, change and welcome new generations of students.

Now a team leader at the Viking Express store, Moore has become part of the rhythm of campus life. She’s seen dorms rise, dining operations expand and management structures shift. More than anything, she’s seen how student life has transformed since she first started.

“Campus has changed a lot since I started, especially with housing,” Moore said. “It’s very different now for students than it used to be.”

Viking Express itself has been a constant presence in the middle of those changes. Located on the second floor of the Student Center, the store serves as a quick stop for students between classes. Open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Thursday, and 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Friday, it offers grab-and-go meals, hot and cold drinks and a range of snacks. It’s not designed as a full sit-down dining space, but rather, as a convenience – a place where students can recharge during the busiest parts of their day. 

Moore is one of several longtime CSU staff members whose work often happens behind the scenes. They provide stability and continuity while adapting to constant change. For her, the key to lasting in the role has been flexibility.

“It’s not the same as it was years ago with management, but I would still say it can be a good place to work,” she said. “You just have to adjust, because things always change.”

Even after decades on the job, Moore continues to see ways the university could improve. 

“They used to have more people dedicated to cleaning, and I think they should bring that back,” she said. “It would help everyone.”

Her reflections highlight what students may not always notice – the people who prepare meals, run stores and keep campus spaces welcoming. Their work shapes the daily CSU experience just as much as classrooms and student events.

As CSU continues to expand housing and dining services, Moore’s story underscores the lasting presence of staff who have been here through every transformation. From the lunchtime rush to the daily rhythm of campus life, Moore has watched it all and says she plans to keep adapting as the university changes.