Ever wonder how Merrimack’s dining hall ended up with the name Sparky’s Place?

Over the years, the dining hall has had a few names, including Gildea Hall and the Crossroads Cafe. After a 2009 renovation, the college held a naming contest and students overwhelmingly chose “Sparky’s Place” after Cynthia “Sparky” Oulette, who worked at the College for more than four decades and earned her nickname due to her sparkling personality.

 Asked to describe her, former coworker Gina Silva said: “An angel. She makes everyone smile, always wants to help everyone and absolutely loves her job.”

Sparky’s legacy of kindness and dedication continues to be honored in the heart of Merrimack’s campus center.