She was startled when she noticed a crowd had formed around her.
Inching forward, they began to chant in low tones.
The crowded restaurant fell silent as the song took form with unmistakable clarity.
"Happy birthday to you."
YouFirst initiative was developed by Chartwells, the company that oversees Tiger Dining, to maintain quality standards at Auburn University.
In January 2011, YouFirst also incorporated a program that recognizes the birthdays of Tiger Dining employees.
Jenna Conaway, senior in English, said she remembers the co-workers singing "Happy Birthday" in January at Au Bon Pain in the Student Center.
"It was pretty loud so we weren't sure what was happening," Conaway said. "But, the singing and the cupcakes finally gave it away."
The program is entering its third month, and employees have responded well to the initiative, said Hudson Kus, director of dining services.
"YouFirst is driven by our associates," said Gina Groome, marketing manager of Tiger Dining. "They help make our customers happy."
Groome said the YouFirst team signs a card to give to each employee.
"Every Wednesday YouFirst champions go to different on-campus restaurants and sing to employees with birthdays coming up," Kus said.
The champions of YouFirst include Laquarius "Tank" Moore and Varonica Dowdell.
Nique Rowe, an employee at Au Bon Pain, said she remembers her birthday recognition in February.
"They came and surprised me," said Rowe. "They gave me a $10 gift card and some cupcakes. It was really nice."
Employees also receive discounts at various locations on campus.
"It's great to be remembered," Rowe said. "Especially on a day as special as my birthday."
Marcus Daniels, employee at Papa John's, said his birthday celebration was one to remember.
"I had actually forgotten it was my birthday," Daniels said. "I asked for their order, and they just started singing 'Happy Birthday.' It was awesome."
Daniels, 31, said the celebration affected the way he worked.
"When you have a boss who cares, it makes you want to do a better job," Daniels said. "So that's what I've done."
Groome oversees the management of birthdays.
"We have a master list with everyone's birthday for the month and get them a card," Kus said. "It includes the Student Center, Terrell, the Village, everywhere."
Students have also noticed the positive effects of YouFirst.
"The (employee) was so happy," Conaway said. "I think it's great they take a moment to appreciate their staff."
YouFirst hosts "guest birthdays" the last Wednesday of every month to celebrate the birthdays of students and faculty from that month.
"Students and faculty can bring their ID and get a free slice of cake," Kus said. "This month it's happening on the 30th."
Participating locations include Chef's Table, Southern Grille, War Eagle Food Court and Evolutions.
Jake Thompson, junior in business, said he is looking forward to his birthday.
"I think it's a cool program," Thompson said. "My birthday's in April, only a month and a half to go."
YouFirst will celebrate 26 birthdays in the month of March.
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