For more than three decades, Stanley Pimenta has been a steady presence at Florida Tech.
Hired through Bridges, a former Brevard-based special needs program, Pimenta began working at Evans Dining Hall in April 1991, helping unload racks from the dishwashing machines and stack clean plates in the dish room. Over time, he shifted to the dining room, where he helps keep the space tidy and running smoothly.
Throughout the years, he has watched the campus grow, and when Panther Dining Hall opened, he, too, transitioned to the new space. Today, he works weekdays during the lunch rush, focusing primarily on keeping the dish-return area clean and organized.
The work may seem simple, but it plays an important role in the daily flow of campus life, and Pimenta takes pride in making sure the area is ready for the next group of students, many of whom have come to recognize him over the years.
“I tell them, ‘Have a nice day,’ and I tell them, ‘Have a nice night,’” he said.
When asked what he notices most about students, Stanley laughed:
“They are very hungry students.”
Outside of work, Pimenta is supported by his houseperson, Sister Frances M. Sampson, who helps coordinate his daily routines. Together, they are part of Holy Name of Jesus Catholic Community, where faith plays an important role in Pimenta’s life.
“I believe in Jesus all the time,” he said.
Pimenta grew up in Honolulu on the island of Oahu and over the years, has traveled to places such as New York, New Jersey and back to Hawaii to visit family. When he is not working, he enjoys spending time outdoors, specifically, camping.
After 35 years at Florida Tech, Pimenta has become one of the quiet constants of campus life. Thousands of students have passed through the dining hall during that time, but he has remained—a familiar and friendly presence.
And when students pass by his station near the dish-return window, they can usually count on hearing the same simple greeting that has been part of the dining hall routine for decades:
“Have a nice day.”
This piece was featured in the spring 2026 edition of Florida Tech Magazine.
