The Haggar Cafeteria at the University of Dallas is filled with many different and interesting characters. One such personality is Mr. David Alvarez, one of our PM Grill Cooks.
Alvarez has been part of the UD community for 11 years, and so it only seemed right that he got his own spotlight.
Alvarez’s favorite parts of the job are learning about new foods to cook and socializing with his co-workers. He is also well-known for his outgoing personality and congeniality with the people of UD. He is very interested in conversing with students about their studies, “especially those who are interested in philosophy.” In his free time, Alvarez loves to read philosophy books.
Of course, there are other sides to the job. There is a common practice in the cafeteria of food going to waste and being thrown out. In response to this, Alvarez hopes “that our community takes food in a respectful manner, making sure to taste dishes before deciding to dispose of them and taking small portions if they are not sure if they like something so we don’t run out for others.”
In an attempt to help reduce the amount of food waste, Alvarez always asks students ‘what do they want’ to “ensure I don’t give them something that doesn’t look delicious to them at the moment.”
UD students can all follow Alvarez’s advice to have a healthier relationship with the food we eat, and respect all those who work so hard to prepare and serve it to us every day.
In addition to working in the cafeteria and engaging with the UD students that he encounters, Alvarez himself has been a student at UD, taking courses towards a master’s degree in Philosophy.
Working in the cafeteria gives him a unique perspective on life at UD, especially through his daily opportunity to have conversations with students. Alvarez embodies the union of the servile and liberal arts through his service to the student body as well as engaging in the university’s intellectual life.
Outside of work, Alvarez has a number of hobbies. As mentioned above, he loves to read and discuss philosophy. He also enjoys hanging out with his family and volunteering at church, playing retro video games and drinking coffee. If you want to know his favorites, feel free to ask him next time you see him!
Many students would agree that Alvarez is an invaluable member of the UD community. He is always polite, thoughtful and attentive to students’ wants and needs. He carries a spirit of selfless service that is an excellent example to UD students and anyone who encounters him in the cafeteria. David Alvarez is yet another reminder of what really makes UD a wonderful place: the people.