Search | Menu Profiles from the Pack: Franco Okello
Franco Okello’s friendly smile is well known at the Madison College-Reedsburg campus, where he enthusiastically greets students and staff. As lead custodian, Franco not only keeps the facilities neat and organized, but creates a better atmosphere for everyone to study, work, and thrive in their daily lives. He’s also speedy on his feet, earning the first-place medal in last year’s Celebrate a Nurse 5K.
Tell us about yourself.
I moved to the United States in 2016. When I came to Wisconsin, I had friends employed at Madison College-Reedsburg, and they told me that it was a great place to work, so I applied in 2018 and was hired. I transitioned into a full-time position as lead custodian last year. In my homeland of Uganda, I was the manager of a recreation center, so I have experience dealing with kids and working with the community. I like working with people.
How would you describe the Reedsburg campus?
It’s a one-of-a-kind place in our region because we serve a big community. It’s a place where everyone wants to see others thrive, and it’s not a huge campus, so people can connect with one another—there is strong teamwork here!
What is your super skill?
I like making sure that everything is in its place and organized and that creates a better environment for students and staff to work and study. The campus grounds are also very important to me. It’s the first impression outside that tells people what they will find inside. It's like if you go inside a restaurant, and it’s messy, you aren’t going to want to eat there. It’s my top priority to make the campus attractive and inviting to people.
You’re big into sports and teach others to excel on the field. Tell us more!
I love soccer. I used it as a bridge to reach kids on the street back home in Uganda. When I moved to Reedsburg, I became a soccer referee and a soccer coach with clinics at the Reedsburg Parks and Rec Department. If people don’t see me at work, they will probably see me on the soccer field somewhere wearing my Madison College T-shirt!
What Madison College-Reedsburg resources would you recommend?
When I was working nights, I talked with a lot of ESL students on campus. I can relate to them because English is not my first language. I encourage those who want to learn English to take a class to progress in their work and lives. There are people here who will help you succeed.
Profiles from the Pack spotlight employees, students and alumni who make the Madison College community vibrant. Enjoy entertaining, informative and inspirational Q&A profiles from the WolfPack twice monthly.
