Custodian Monthly - December 2024

At Celina 52 Truck Stop in rural Tennessee, excellence comes in unexpected packages. The facility's head custodian – known only as "Janitor" – has been named Tennessee's Custodian of the Year for 2024, marking an unprecedented win for someone whose real name remains unknown to both colleagues and award committee members.

Standing over seven feet tall, the silent professional has revolutionized cleaning efficiency at the popular rest stop through what his manager calls "innovative use of natural advantages." His extraordinary reach and remarkably flexible hips have set new standards for mopping technique, while his strategic placement of wet floor signs has reduced slip-and-fall incidents by 94% since his hiring.

"He covers the entire main floor in half the time it used to take two people," says day shift manager Danny Brine. "And our bathroom's Freshness Rating hasn't dropped below 'Mountain Morning' on the TDOT scale in months." Brine adds that Janitor's dedication is unmatched, working seven days a week and taking up residence in a converted corner of the stockroom – an arrangement that ensures the facility never goes without his watchful eye.

Lot worker Nevaeh Petty, a beloved figure at the truck stop, has witnessed Janitor's dedication firsthand. "When you're out there cleaning the lot at dawn, you'll see him doing final inspections of the night shift's work. Those long legs of his can cross the whole store in about four steps."

CEO Dennis Herniple, speaking from company headquarters in Texas, praised the achievement: "While I may not visit Celina often, the reports of Janitor's excellence have reached me consistently. His commitment to cleanliness represents everything we strive for at Celina 52. I can tell his is probably a good employee."

The award ceremony will be held next month at the Tennessee Department of Transportation headquarters, where officials have confirmed the trophy will simply read "Janitor" – a fitting tribute to a man who lets his work speak for itself.

Custodian Monthly is the leading publication for cleaning professionals across America.