After nearly two years at Latin’s kiosk, Jade Diaz-Martini is saying goodbye to the community she helped brighten each day. Before she leaves to join her fiancé in Charleston, South Carolina, as he continues Navy A-school, which is extensive training for newly enlisted sailors, Ms. Diaz reflected on the connections she built with students and staff during her time at Latin. These relationships often turned quick morning coffee runs into meaningful conversations.

When asked about her favorite part of the job, she said, “Honestly? Chatting it up with all you peeps. I love hearing your rants about classes and your wins (and losses) in all your sports things.” She added that one of her favorite parts of the day was hearing updates from students and teachers alike, whether it was excitement over a good grade, frustration over homework, or funny stories between classes.

Ms. Diaz described working with students as “unpredictable for sure,” adding that she never knew “what kind of conversations and characters” would walk up to the kiosk each day. Over time, those everyday interactions helped her get to know familiar faces, remember favorite orders, and become a comforting part of many students’ routines.

From busy morning rushes to learning regulars’ orders by heart, Ms. Diaz became a familiar and comforting presence in the school community. One of her favorite memories was “the first day of matcha, everyone had such big reactions to its arrival, and there was even an article about it.” She also said the recent promposals brought a lot of excitement and laughter to her days at work.

Students say Ms. Diaz’s kindness and energy made the kiosk feel like more than just a place to grab a drink. “I will miss [her] kindness to everyone and getting my humor when other people don’t,” freshman Jackie Winter said.

Ms. Diaz said what she will miss most about Latin is “the peeps,” including not only the students but also the staff, coworkers, and managers who supported her throughout her time at the school. Looking ahead, she is excited about the next chapter of her life: getting married, moving to a new state, and starting fresh.

Though she’ll be missed, her warmth, humor, and positivity will remain a lasting part of the Latin community. When asked for one last message to Latin, Ms. Diaz said, “Stay kind! Keep and cherish your connections.”