Two of our Zenith members recently gave up their top cruiser celebration, so their Michael’s Club Concierge could receive a graduation ceremony at sea.
Onboard Celebrity Equinox℠, Aveline, a 22-year-old Michael’s Club Concierge from North Hampton, England, casually mentioned to two of our Zenith members, Vincent and Gail Rossi, that she was missing her graduation back home from Plymouth University’s Hospitality Management program because she was working on board. Vincent and Gail sent Captain Kate a note letting her know what Aveline told them and asked that they honor Aveline at the next Captain’s Club Celebration rather than honor the two of them as the “top cruisers.”
Mrs. Rossi said, “As parents, the thought that she couldn't be at the ceremony with her family and friends broke our hearts. We have been part of the Celebrity family for almost 25 years and know first-hand how loving and caring that family is. I decided to write a note to Captain Kate and let her know about Aveline missing this once in a lifetime event. We offered to give up our moment in the spotlight (as top cruisers) in order to allow Aveline's achievement to be recognized.”
That letter got the ball rolling and the crew ran with it.
At the celebration, Captain Kate called the Rossi’s up, read their note aloud, and then surprised Aveline with a graduation ceremony complete with a “Bling It On” graduation cap and tassel, sash and flowers. After still honoring Vincent and Gail as top cruisers, Captain Kate asked them to remain next to her as they honored Aveline.
Mrs. Rossi said, “We got the chance to be Aveline's surrogate parents, a job anyone would be happy to do. The result was the most wonderful Captain’s Club party we have ever attended. It was an honor and pleasure to be part of it.”
And Aveline just couldn’t believe the lengths that the Rossi’s and crew went to in order to make her day special. “It meant so much to me. Even though I’m away from home I feel like I’m with my family. That day, the Rossi’s were like my adoptive parents – I took care of them and they took care of me.”
“It’s no secret that we have the most amazing guests and crew,” said Captain Kate. “I am proud to be surrounded by people who care and want to see others succeed. We are a team not because we work together. We are a team because we respect, trust, and cheer for each other.”
We have to agree.