At Vail Resorts, our core values guide and ground us and our work. Last winter, more than 1,000 team members were recognized for putting service-based leadership into action. Twenty-five team members were recognized as Epic Service winners for their emotional intelligence, inclusivity and operational excellence. Now, we’re excited to tell their stories throughout the winter season.
Meet Gracie – As the Patagonia Assistant Manager at Beaver Creek, she has spent three years building a welcoming community for guests of all ages. Gracie helped lead the launch of the world’s first Patagonia Kids store and went above and beyond for our youngest skiers and riders. Two teammates nominated her after she started “Story Time with Ms. Gracie” every Saturday at 3:30 pm to help kids wind down after a big day on the hill with children’s books read aloud by Gracie. One coworker said, “Gracie has taken it upon herself to make every moment a memorable one for both guests and employees. We have received a lot of positive feedback from our guests and I cannot wait to see how this program will continue to grow.” Gracie’s “passion project” exceeded expectations and has become a signature part of the Beaver Creek experience.
Get to know a little more about Gracie:
Epic Insider: Hometown?
Gracie: Fleetwood, PA
Epic Insider: What do you love the most about your job?
Gracie: I love making our guests feel comfortable and welcomed in our resort. It is really fulfilling to be able to provide recommendations or assistance to improve their trip. Especially if they come back to say goodbye at the end of their vacation.
Epic Insider: How did it feel to win the Epic Service award and trip?
Gracie: It was an amazing honor to be the Epic Service Finalist and to represent Beaver Creek. “Story Time with Ms. Gracie” has been a passion project of mine, and to see that it’s being recognized as an experience of a lifetime and a positive addition to our resort is an incredible achievement.
Epic Insider: What are you most excited about for the 2023-24 winter season?
Gracie: I am most excited to welcome in new staff to our team in VRR as well as continuing to make those genuine connections with our guests.
Epic Insider: Where is your favorite place to play outside?
Gracie: My favorite place to hike is Mayflower Gulch. In the summer, the wildflowers are vibrant and beautiful.
Epic Insider: You’re about to head to that favorite place for a fun day - what’s your go-to snack to bring along?
Gracie: I always make sure to pack a little sweet treat, like Nerds Clusters, to enjoy while I’m soaking in the scenery!