Include custom embedded data in email using piped text

Hello. I am trying to include some piped text that uses embedded data from a contact list. The text says (paraphrasing): "Dear ${m://FirstName}  We are surveying recipients in ${e://Field/Dept}  about their experiences...." The firstName field works fine, but the "Dept" field, which comes from custom field added in the contact list is not working. Any suggestions? Thanks!