For over two decades, Benita Ramirez has been a cornerstone of North Dining Hall, her presence as comforting as her home-style cooking. Benita sees the stream of students passing through her line as an extension of her family. "It feels like I'm cooking for my own children," she says, a sentiment that speaks volumes about the strong sense of community she fosters around the long tables in the dining hall.
But Benita's devotion extends far beyond the Notre Dame community; it radiates towards her three daughters, her triplets: Eva, Esmeralda, and Elizabeth. This Mother's Day, their success shines as a testament to Benita's commitment and the opportunities afforded by her long tenure at the University. Thanks to the education benefits that the University provides, each of her daughters has blossomed in the medical field, a dream that might have remained distant without this support. Today, all three sisters are thriving in their respective careers, a living embodiment of their mother's sacrifices and the power of education.
"Without the benefits from Notre Dame, it would be very hard to put my daughters through college. It gave my family peace of mind," Benita reflects. The University's commitment to its employees extends to their families, offering dependents of regular, full-time staff who have completed at least five consecutive years of service the chance to pursue a bachelor's degree. This portable benefit, applicable to any accredited college or university, covers tuition and mandatory fees up to 50 percent of Notre Dame’s own tuition costs for their children attending other institutions full-time.
The lively chatter and shared meals in the Notre Dame dining halls weren't just a part of Benita's workday; they were a constant reminder of the vibrant community that supported her family's dreams.
"Notre Dame gives you a lot of opportunities for both you and your family, if you are willing to take them," Benita shares. Her dedication, both in nurturing the students of Notre Dame and raising her accomplished daughters, is a heartwarming tribute to motherhood that we celebrate each May.
Originally published by at dining.nd.edu on May 01, 2025.