The Team Behind 25 Years of Service at The Chocolate Spa

Twenty five years ago, the doors first opened to The Spa At The Hotel Hershey. Known fondly as the Chocolate Spa, it began a legacy of blending Hershey’s rich, sweet heritage with world-class relaxation.

As we celebrate the Chocolate Spa's 25th anniversary throughout the year, we are proud to honor the Hershey Entertainment & Resorts (HE&R) Legacy team members who are also marking 25 years of service at The Spa At The Hotel Hershey. These team members were not only here to celebrate the opening of the property, but they have continued to be the heart of our guest experience, growing their passion for excellence and evolving from colleagues into a true spa family. Read their stories below.

Leading with Heart

Kathy Kramer - Manager of Spa Operations

Starting as a Technician and growing into Spa Manager, Kathy has many fond memories of working at the Spa for the past quarter century. Kathy recalls, “I got a tip from my Aunt that The Hotel Hershey was opening a Spa. I was working as an in-home massage therapist at the time. But I applied, interviewed in a small trailer at the time, since the Spa was under construction, and got hired! I still remember my first day after the Spa opened. We had a staff meeting and then immediately began working with guests. It was so exciting.” 

Kathy also mentioned what has stayed consistent and what has changed over the years. “The positive teamwork and working relationships have always been a driving force here. I think what has changed the most is obviously the growth of the Spa but also the popularity of Hershey destination and guests interested in the history of Milton Hershey.” 

“My journey has been filled with incredible moments, especially guest interactions I have had. From helping a guest with Parkinson’s find physical relief to building long-term friendships with regulars and even treating celebrities. The growth opportunity and the perks that HE&R provides are amazing. I have found that the true heart of this Spa is with the people I work alongside every day.” 

A 25-Year Journey of Friendship 

Selena Auman and Janet Smeltz - Esthetician and Group Sales Agent

For team members Selena and Janet, the journey to The Spa At The Hotel Hershey started at a spa in Harrisburg where they worked together. Janet, who had once visited The Hotel Hershey as a school student, remembered being in absolute awe of its extravagance. When she heard a spa was opening, she knew her and Selena had to be a part of it together.

"I wondered to myself if I could really work somewhere like The Hotel Hershey," Janet recalls. "Just the thought of it made me so excited. I told Selena we had to apply."

For Selena, who was only 17 at the time, the thought of venturing out was intimidating. "I was so young and relatively new to the industry," Selena says. "But Janet mentored me from the start. She helped me with my application and the interview process, and we were both thrilled when we got hired to continue our journey together in Hershey."

For Selena and Janet, the early days were defined by grit and excitement. While the Spa was being finished, they were tasked with building the buzz for Hotel guests. They spent their days at a table in the main lobby, selling gift certificates and telling guests about the excitement that was coming. Janet remembers the deep dive into the Hershey legacy that fueled their early passion. "Our managers took us to Milton Hershey’s homestead to learn the history behind the scenes. They transferred their energy and excitement to us. That same passion I felt on day one still exudes in the Spa today."

Over the last quarter century, their roles have evolved. Janet in the Sales Group office and Selena transitioning from a dedicated hostess to a talented Esthetician, but their bond has remained the constant. Janet describes their connection as that of a "mother hen" or an older sister, always looking out for Selena’s growth. "Watching her thrive and advance herself makes me incredibly proud," Janet says. "We’ve relied heavily on one another, and that mutual support is what got us through the busy years."

For Selena, the sentiment is mutual. "I truly grew up with these ladies, especially Janet. She took me under her wing and taught me everything she knew about operations. They’ve been like sisters to me, guiding and encouraging me every step of the way."

For both women, the true reward of 25 years isn't just the milestone, it’s the people. Janet finds her greatest joy in the personal connections made with guests, some of whom have become like family. "The best feeling in the world is when a group asks me to stop by and say hi while they eat lunch after their treatments, just to share their smiles," Janet says. "When I can book a large group and follow through to ensure they have a perfect experience, that is at the top of my list."

"I am so grateful for the opportunities I’ve received here," Selena concludes. "I’m looking forward to many more years at this beautiful resort with the best team." Janet agrees, noting that while 25 years sounds like a long time, it’s gone by in a flash. "It doesn't seem like that long because I enjoy working with people who share the same beliefs. We aren't just coworkers, we are family."

The Master of All Trades

Alisha Schell - Manager of Spa Operations

Alisha was working in a local salon when she heard a tip from a family member that The Hotel Hershey was opening a spa. She didn't hesitate. She knew immediately that she wanted to be part of something this grand.

Alisha still remembers the sheer awe of those early days after being hired. "When I toured the Spa for the first time and stepped out of the locker room onto the main staircase, it literally took my breath away," she recalls.

The excitement of working with world-class, chocolate-based products was electric, though it came with its share of growing pains. "I will never forget my first Whipped Cocoa Bath service. The bubbles came all the way out into the center of the locker room!" she laughs. “But that is where growth comes into play, which has been a constant in my 25 years here.” What makes Alisha’s 25-year tenure so remarkable is her versatility. “Over the past 25 years, I was a Hair Stylist, Nail Technician, Esthetician, performed all body treatments and trained new staff. Eight years ago, I joined the leadership team as Spa Operations Manager.”

For Alisha, the true heart of the Spa is its mission. She finds her greatest motivation in the Core Purpose of Hershey Entertainment & Resorts: supporting Milton Hershey School. "Of course providing a memorable experience for guests who visit us is wonderful" Alisha says "but what keeps me going everyday is how I am so moved by my amazing co-workers who consistently demonstrate a selfless spirit of service." "We have been here to support and motivate each other through it all," Alisha reflects. "We have truly grown up together, and I am so grateful for the opportunities and experiences I’ve received over the past 25 years. I'm looking forward to many more with the best team in the business."

If you enjoyed reading these stories and want to create your own memories as an HE&R team member, view available positions.