Behind the scenes in the cafeteria, General Manager Bruce Thens attributes much of his professional success to the Citadel.
The Citadel is a military based college located in Charleston, South Carolina. Students on the campus learn discipline, marching requirements, basic academics and various other school based activities.
Thens attended the school in the 1960’s when women and African Americans were not admitted, and he mentioned how discipline back then was nothing compared to what it is today.
“The first night, you got but two or three hours of sleep,” said Thens. “It was quite an experience to remember, whether that was getting off the bus walking onto the campus or having the seniors yell at you.”
Harassment was not looked down upon as much as today. “The smallest move you make on the campus someone was watching, and if [someone] saw you make a mistake, they would come and harass you about the situation,” said Thens.
The college now holds up to 2,400 cadets [students], both men and women.
“Much of the cadets you get to know, it is a great bonding experience,” said Thens. “You know the people all of your life, and if one needs help, we are there to help.”
Thens originally wanted to attend West Point; he mentioned that it is ‘quite the haul’ to get into the college. A person has to take the college entrance exam, and one has to have a political appointment, which is when a local government official appoints you to the college.
“The Citadel was the next best college in my opinion from West Point,” said Thens.
Thens graduated from the Citadel in 1964 and finally came to work at Southern School District in the early 2000’s.
“The school district along with [the] Metz organization has much of the quality and characteristics that the Citadel did,” said Thens.
Thens did all he could to push his way through college, instilling his character, values, and work ethic.
“I always look back during my time at the Citadel. It does not come naturally; you have to work for it,” said Thens.
Originally from Pittsburgh, Thens is more than happy to be where he is today. ‘Southern York County School District is the finest place to work,’ said Thens.
