Patty Brewer and Patti Bayrd have, collectively, worked for Bowdoin Dining for 40 years (Brewer for 29 years and Bayrd for 11). “They make a great team,” their colleague Nancy Barton said. “They’re so synchronized!”

As they serve food to students during breakfast and lunch, they learn much about their customers — not just what they like to eat, but also their names, where they’re from and what classes they’re taking. Associate Director of Operations Michele Gaillard says that all the students seem to know the two Patties, that they’re legendary for their friendliness and for remembering so many students’ names.