Ultimately, many say, knowing what to expect was what really helped smooth the way for Lowell and Winthrop.
"Showing us how to use these," Dougenik says, gesturing to his cooking burners and supplies, "was the only training we really needed."
Lee says that overall, workers are happier in their new dining halls.
"There are bad and good points to all of it," he says. "Some people don't get along. There have been tensions in the dish room. But I think we're more happy because of the way it looks."
And although there have been problems, Lee says the management has been more open to change.
"Managers are receptive--they have to be," he says. "Everyone is looking in on this place."
Lee says the management has also been very forthcoming with praise for the workers, but it could do more to recognize the employees' effort.
"I know a lot of companies and corporations that give employees something for appreciation. Harvard should do more of that," he says. "They should do more for thanks. I think they're trying. They say it to us a lot. But actions speak louder than words."