Last month, WashU IT hosted a memorable Dessert Potluck at Risa Commons in the South 40, bringing together approximately 175 colleagues for an evening of sweet treats and heartfelt giving. The event featured a mix of sweet treats prepared by talented bakers.
About a dozen employees entered the dessert competition, with Jose Lovato, Application Administrator I, taking first place for his chocolate chip cookies with chocolate pieces. Tahnee Alves, IT Marketing and Creative Strategist from Strategic Communications and one of the main event organizers, described Lovato’s creation as “a chocolate explosion of deliciousness.” The award-winning recipe is available for everyone to indulge in the masterpiece.
The WashU IT Senior Leadership Team donated 200 mini cupcakes for attendees to enjoy. Regular, low sugar, sugar free, KETO and gluten-free dessert options were available, offering a thoughtful variety of baked goods. Attendees also enjoyed hot chocolate and tea, and cider while listening to some holiday tunes and socializing with colleagues.
The planning for this year’s Dessert Potluck took a distinctly different approach compared to previous annual winter parties, thanks to the vision of a dedicated small committee. According to committee member Melissa Harting, HR Payroll Coordinator, the initial discussions went beyond the typical logistics. “Almost immediately, the group began asking how the celebration could also be a way to give back to our community. It was incredibly heartwarming to watch ideas take shape: a 50/50 raffle to benefit the St. Louis Food Bank, encouraging food donations, and creating a card-writing station for veterans,” Harting shared. “What started as a simple holiday dessert potluck quickly became an opportunity for generosity, allowing our shared love for the community to shine through.”
The event achieved noteworthy success in its community outreach efforts. Attendees created about 100 cards for St. Louis area veterans, bringing holiday cheer to those who have served in the military. Roughly 150 pounds of canned goods and non-perishable items were collected for WashU’s food drive, which significantly bolstered resources for area families in need.
A total of $707 was raised from the 50/50 raffle, with winner Troy Burrus, Executive Director of Medical Applications, generously donating his winnings back to the cause. This resulted in an even greater contribution to the St. Louis Area Food Bank. Additionally, the End User Services (EUS) team efforts culminated in an additional $3,000 donation to the food bank. The funds were raised throughout the year via engaging initiatives such as 50/50 raffles, garage sales, and Mario Kart competitions, embodying the team’s unwavering commitment to community support.
Raul Cortes, Technical Training Lead in EUS, expressed immense pride in the collective team effort. “We’re so proud to assist and jump into action whenever it’s needed, and it means a ton to our team to support such an important cause. Thanks to everyone who pitched in – whether you donated, participated, or just cheered us on. It was a total team effort, and we couldn’t have done it without all of you,” he stated.
Reflecting on the event’s success, Kim Rea, Assistant Director of EUS, shared her gratitude. “We want to express our sincere gratitude for the incredible team that made all of this possible. Their enthusiasm, creativity, and generosity drove every part of this effort,” Rea emphasized.
In addition to the dessert competition and community aid initiatives, attendees enjoyed fun activities such as trivia games and cornhole. The event’s photo gallery is available for viewing, along with a 2025 Year in Review presentation that showcases WashU IT’s People of ImpacT from 2024.
The Dessert Potluck stands as a testament to WashU IT’s dedication not only to camaraderie and enjoyment but also to heartfelt community support and impactful giving. A photo gallery from the event is available for viewing, as well as a 2025 Year in Review presentation that showcases WashU IT’s People of ImpacT from 2024.