In Praise of Longevity

Some associates leave their jobs after a few years for a variety of reasons: They relocate, return to school and change careers. Others serve for many years, also for a range of reasons: They like the work, build relationships that they value over the years and continue to grow and find new challenges.

Jack Denham, having served at the Hampton Inn Mount Vernon in Illinois since the hotel opened in 1998, is an example of an M&R associate with near-legendary longevity. “Jack continues to be valued for the contribution he makes in the life of the hotel,” said General Manager Melissa Bruce.

Over the years, Jack has served mostly as night auditor and takes pride in having helped train others. He also has done stints as a guest service agent. “As GSA, you get to meet lots of people you don’t know,” he said. “You never know what each day may bring.” 

Returning guests have come to recognize him, including a doctor who stays often. Jack has outlasted other longtime guests who retired from the jobs that brought them to Mount Vernon.

Jack has catalogued the questions and concerns of first-time guests at check-in. “They’ll ask about the layout of the hotel and whether we allow pets,” he said, “Then they want to know what’s on the breakfast menu.”