Impact and Reach
THE OMELET KING
Widely known as the “Omelet King,” Glen serves a side of kindness with every plate he prepares. Each custom dish is accompanied by his warm words as he greets students, offering encouragement and turning an ordinary breakfast into a moment of connection. His delicious omelets are paired with a thoughtful “make it a great day,” a small gesture that leaves a lasting impression on students beginning their day.
University of Miami students don’t just grab breakfast, they line up for the Omelet King. Every morning, Glen makes hundreds of custom omelets from scratch. He remembers student names, how they want their eggs cooked, what ingredients are included, and if they need a clean pan because they don’t eat pork. His infectious smile and steady presence have turned a simple omelet station into a campus landmark and a moment of connection. They say breakfast is the most important meal of the day, especially if it’s cooked by Glen at the Mahoney-Pearson Dining Hall.
“He is always so nice, so bright. I get the same thing: tomatoes and cheese, every day. He actually started to remember my order. It almost made me cry today, it was really sweet.”
“Oh my god, like, he is a UMiami icon. He’d make 6 omelets at a time, he knew your name, your order and would always yell ‘MAKE IT A GREAT DAY!’”
“A man who has passion on his job. Every day, I decided to use his omelet to start my day. ‘Good morning’ is one of the most powerful and cheerful greetings I have ever heard. He can even remember my preferences, and I am just a random guy in his life! Keep doing what you have passion for, and I appreciate every art you make!”
“He always brightens my day when he’s making the omelets. He just always seems happy to be here.”
“Absolutely love Mr. Glen & the energy he brings. So kind! His omelets 10000/10.”
Student Testimonials Received
Student Testimonials
LETTERS MAILED TO GLEN
Sustainability and Commitment
SHOWING UP, EVERY MORNING
Glen’s positivity is unwavering, no matter how early the hour or how long the line is. He maintains the same level of enthusiasm and care for every student he greets. This comes from a deep love for his work and commitment to the students of UM. “I enjoy what I do,” Howard said. “I have so much enthusiasm because of tomorrow’s people who I am catering to, like future lawyers and doctors.” Howard hopes that his kind words serve as a motivator to the students, even in their future endeavors.
TEAM CULTURE BEHIND THE COUNTER
Glen’s personable nature and joyous spirit constantly boost morale among the staff. From coordinating seamless service during busy mornings to joining his colleagues in lighthearted TikTok videos that showcase the fun side of dining hall life, Howard strengthens the internal connections at MahoneyPearson. Prioritizing both professionalism and personalization in his work, Howard balances approachability with respect, an approach that strengths collaboration throughout the dining hall.
Collaboration and Partnerships
THE HEART OF MAHONEY-PEARSON
The omelet station may be a one-man show, but Glen’s teamwork with staff and engagement with students make Mahoney-Pearson a special place to dine. Having worked in the foodservice industry for over 50 years, seven of those being at the University of Miami, Howard has worn every hat the kitchen offers. His versatile background allows him to understand and connect with staff at every level.
Measurable Outcomes
MAKE IT A GREAT DAY
His efforts have deeply resonated with students, resulting in tangible response and recognition. His classic phrase, “Make it a great day,” has been particularly impactful on students, serving as a small but powerful mantra that guides them through whatever comes next.
PAYING IT FORWARD
To thank Glen not just for his hard work, but for the joy and care he brings to the dining hall each morning, students have found heartfelt ways to give back. Twice now, they’ve surprised him with custom shirts printed with his signature catchphrase. The heartwarming gestures filled the dining hall with laughter, smiles, and a few teary eyes. Posts of the Omelet King on @UMDining have gained over 18,000 likes and 250 comments, overflowing with positive recognition. “Well deserved!! He’s the sweetest!” and “We love Glen!” flooded the post. These simple acts of gratitude capture the spirit Glen brings to campus, a warmth that sticks with every student long after breakfast.
The Digital Footprint
CLICK TO SEE GLEN GET CELEBRATED ON TIKTOK
READ HOW MR. HOWARD IS MAKING OMELETS AND ELICITING SMILES
MEET GLEN HOWARD, MAHONEYPEARSON DINING HALL’S BELOVED OMELETTE CHEF
Innovation and Creativity
REDEFINING A ROUTINE MOMENT
Glen brings creativity to his omelet station by transforming a routine transaction into a memorable moment for all. His personalized approach to foodservice allows for a rare sense of connection in a fast-paced and ever-changing environment. His center stage at Mahoney-Pearson offers a blend of conversation, humor and care that turns a dining hall into a safe space for all who enter. Howard can turn even the shortest of interactions into an experience that can change the trajectory of someone’s day.
Leadership or Initiative
LEADING THROUGH EXAMPLE
Through his intentional actions, Howard has established himself as a leader on campus. His ability to brighten anyone’s day makes him a reliable presence for students, staff and the campus community alike. He leads not through authority, but through consistency, care and example.
A FIRST IMPRESSION THAT LASTS
College is a nerve-racking and stressful time for many, and UM’s vast campus feels a bit less daunting with Howard turning breakfast into a familiar, comforting moment. A note from an out-of-state student read, “College can be overwhelming or scary at times, and knowing there is someone in your corner paying attention who genuinely cares makes all the difference. We appreciate you so much!”
He takes particular care in creating a welcoming environment for the University’s first-year students through food. Howard aims to serve as a beacon of positivity and ensure each student feels optimistic about their future. “I hope to give the freshmen a picture of what UM will be like for the next three years,” Glen said.
Education and Advocacy
ATTENTION TO EVERY DETAIL
Even the smallest of details don’t go unnoticed by Glen. He makes an effort to remember the orders of those who frequent his station: something that makes students feel recognized and valued each morning. It is these intentional gestures that make Glen so beloved by the UM community. At a university of nearly 20,000 students, Glen Howard doesn’t just remember your order. He remembers you. He turns a simple omelet station into the University of Miami’s heartbeat.
ENCOURAGING POSITIVITY
The warm smiles and well wishes that Glen gives out may feel like a small gesture to him, but they carry weight among the students of UM. His words inspire them to take on their day with a new sense of positivity. His daily challenge to students to “make it a great day” encourages them to carry that mindset into their classes, interactions and beyond.
SERVING WITH JOY
Glen’s compassion is not driven by recognition or response. It is the result of his genuine care for everyone he encounters and his love for the job. He knows he has found his calling, saying that “anything that you do with joy, you can do it forever.” Leaving a lasting impact on those he serves is one of the most important aspects of his craft. “I make a student feel loved,” Howard said. “I make a student feel appreciated.”
A Real Meaning
This is more than just an award for Glen. It celebrates the joy and passion he brings to life. While his official role is omelet chef, his greatest mission is caring for the students of University of Miami. The Paul Fairbrook Spirit of Service Award would honor his greatest achievement: showing every student that someone sees them, supports them and stands in their corner. Receiving this award would be a reminder to Glen that the energy and heart he brings every day truly matters.