Cintas Names Davis Custodian of Year for 2025

CINCINNATI – Cintas has named Dan Davis of Deerfield Elementary School in Short Hills, N.J. its Custodian of the Year for 2025.

After thousands of votes were submitted, Cintas Corporation crowned Davis as the 2025 grand prize winner. He was honored with a surprise ceremony by students, teachers, staff and family and was presented with a $10,000 check from Cintas.

“Too often, the hard work of custodians goes unnoticed, yet they’re the unsung heroes of our facilities, keeping them clean and safe,” said Emily Ramos, Director of Marketing at Cintas. “Dan is a valued member of his community and a role model for students. It was an honor to help celebrate his well-deserved recognition.”

Dan exemplifies what it means to go above and beyond as a school custodian. He arrives each day with a smile and positive attitude, creating a welcoming atmosphere throughout the school. His commitment is evident in how he keeps the school clean and organized, and how quickly and willingly he responds to unexpected challenges.

He’s also a familiar and friendly face during drop-off and pick-up, always offering students a bright smile, an enthusiastic hello or a fist bump that starts their day on the right note.

“Custodians play a vital role in maintaining a safe, healthy school environment where children can learn and thrive,” said John Barrett, Executive Director of ISSA, the worldwide cleaning industry association. “For over 100 years, ISSA has been committed to advancing the cleaning industry. The training opportunities we’re providing to this year’s finalists will help them build on their skills and open the door to future leadership roles.”

In addition to the $10,000 cash prize, Dan will receive $5,000 in Cintas and Rubbermaid Commercial Products and services for his school. His school also receives a comprehensive facility assessment, valued at $20,000, in partnership with the ISSA Global Consulting Network.

Cintas will also award the winning school a pizza party for all staff and students. Dan, along with the two other top three finalists, will receive an all-expense-paid trip for two to the ISSA Show North America in Las Vegas in November, where they’ll be celebrated for their accomplishments.

“Dan Davis is extremely deserving of this title, and we are honored to be a part of recognizing his hard work,” added Robert Posthauer, SVP & GM, Rubbermaid Commercial Products.

For more information about the Cintas Custodian of the Year contest, visit www.custodianoftheyear.com.