Most people do not associate standing in a lunch line with happiness, but at Mount Michael, that is quickly changing. Thanks to his warm smile and welcoming attitude, Jacomo brightens mealtime lines. The school’s newest lunch cook has turned a cafeteria stop into a bright moment of many students’ days.
When students reach the serving line, Jacomo’s cheerful greeting changes the mood from a stressful day. Whether he is handing out a plate of food or smiling when passing by, his positivity is impossible to miss. From the lunchroom tables, it is common to hear comments about how much they like the “new lunch man” and how he makes the line feel welcoming. After ordering, students say they walk away with a smile, not just because of the food, but because of the interaction.
Although Jacomo fits right in at Mount Michael, working with students is actually new to him. Before coming to Mount Michael, he worked in restaurants and hotels. He studied at a Catholic culinary school in Italy for six years, where he earned his degree as a cook. Over the years, he cooked pizzas for 13 years and spent another three years working on sauté dishes, where he gained experience in both speed and flavor. His favorite food is lasagna, a classic Italian dish that reflects his roots.
Jacomo also brings a global touch to the cafeteria. He speaks Italian fluently and knows a little bit of Spanish as well. His journey to Mount Michael began when he saw an online post looking for a new cook. After applying and interviewing, he had to wait because many others were considered for the position. Even so, Jacomo was confident the school would not make a mistake by choosing him.
Outside of work, Jacomo is a husband and father to two young children, a four-year-old and a six-year-old. Providing for his family is a major motivation behind everything he does, and he is committed to continuing his career as a chef while supporting the people who matter most.
For students at Mount Michael, Jacomo is more than just a cook. He is someone who brings warmth, kindness, and joy to a place that is usually just about getting food and moving on. In a space where most people rush through, Jacomo reminds everyone that even a lunch line can be a place to smile.
