Kaleb Torrance is a familiar, friendly face at Oak Hammock at the University of Florida, known for his constant smile and genuine care for others. Every time he passes people in the hallways, his eyes light up, and he cheerfully greets them as dear friends. Torrance’s enthusiastic greetings are one of the many reasons he is admired in the community.
In December, Torrance was honored as the community’s first-ever “employee of the year,” based on his commitment and excellence in service. Having received multiple WeCare nominations and recognized as a culture champion, Torrance is widely known across campus for his consistent positivity, empathy and teamwork. He is always willing to lend a hand, pays attention to detail and is dedicated to customer service.
Born in Gainesville and raised in Palatka, Florida, Torrance returned to Gainesville to attend Gainesville High School before graduating from Bronson High School. Family has always played an important role in his life. He has one older brother, William, and is a proud uncle to two nieces and a nephew who affectionately call him “Unk.” His mom and stepfather, Barbara and Willie Russell, live in Gainesville. His father, William Torrance, still resides in Palatka.
Torrance has been happily married to his wife, Tiffany, for 14 years. The two met while working together at Sam’s Club, where daily conversations turned into a lasting friendship. They discovered they have many related interests, which eventually led them to dinner and then, a life together. They have two children: Camron, 20, who serves in the Army and is stationed in Texas, and Camriell, 22, who serves in the National Guard in Jacksonville. As a family, they enjoy traveling to Orlando, spending time at Florida’s beaches and visiting theme parks; with Busch Gardens Tampa Bay and Crescent Beach being their favorites.
Torrance joined Oak Hammock two years ago after working as a supervisor at Budweiser, where he gained experience in a variety of operational roles. At Oak Hammock, he recently was promoted to lead floor technician, a role in which he takes pride in ensuring that floors and carpets are clean and well maintained while supporting overall housekeeping care throughout the community. Kaleb’s overall responsibilities encompass so much more, including event setup and transition, resident support and assistance and leadership and team support.
Rebecca Snowden, housekeeping manager, said “Kaleb has made an incredible impact at Oak Hammock through his dedication, compassion and willingness to always go above and beyond. He consistently supports both residents and team members, and his positive attitude truly makes
a difference in our community every day. We are better because of the care and commitment he brings to his work.”
Recently Torrance reflected on his role at Oak Hammock:
What do you enjoy most about your job?
What I enjoy most about my job is the people, both the residents and team members. I really appreciate learning from them and hearing their life stories.
I’ve learned to make the effort to enjoy my time at work and try to always maintain a positive attitude.
People frequently ask me why I smile so much, and I just explain that it is who I am. I believe it’s easier to stay positive, even on tough days, and look for the good in every situation. I credit much of my outlook to my grandmother, Christine Drayton, with whom I was especially close growing up. Her compassion and love for others left a lasting impression on me.
How do you apply the We Care service vision to what you do?
The WeCare values of welcoming, exceptional, courteous, attentive, responsive and empathetic are what I try to achieve every day. I’ve always believed first impressions matter, so I make sure to be welcoming and approachable from the moment I greet people in the hallways.
I aim to be exceptional by doing things differently and quickly. I treat everyone with kindness and compassion, notice details that others may overlook and address needs immediately. I feel it is my responsibility to make a difference whenever I can.
When I was a child, I spent a lot of time with older adults, such as my grandmother, and I feel that helped shape the way I am. My brother used to tease me and say I was like an “old man” or an “old soul.”
How do you make a difference for others?
I try to make a difference for residents and other team members by brightening their days through conversation, listening carefully and helping solve problems. I appreciate all the team members who have been so helpful to me while learning my job; especially Norman Garrison who helped me to learn the best way to clean and maintain the floors throughout the Oak Hammock community.
What would people be surprised to learn about you?
One thing that may surprise people is my long-term goal. By the end of 2026, I plan to attend funeral college and become a funeral director. I currently work on the weekends at Duncan Brothers Funeral Home, learning all aspects of the profession. That is my dream job.
Even with that goal, I plan to continue working at Oak Hammock, which is a place and job I truly love. I plan to explore scholarship opportunities through the organization.
Receiving the “employee of the year” award was an achievement that left me genuinely shocked and grateful. As part of the award, I received tickets to a University of Florida Gator basketball game in December, which I attended with my son. We had a wonderful time, enjoyed the game, and the Gators won.
I should admit though, I have been a Florida State University fan since first grade. Also, I support the Jacksonville Jaguars, which is my favorite professional football team.
Outside of work, I enjoy playing basketball and baseball, attending Kingdom Life Missionary Baptist Church with my wife and making memories with my family.
“Kaleb’s smile is one of the first things many of us see each morning and it sets the tone for the entire day. Whether we pass him once or ten times, he greets every person with the same warmth, kindness and genuine positivity.” – Director of Nursing Michelle Parker