Pancakes with Pat started as a way to meet and connect with students in a different way. Dr. Whitely, senior vice president for student affairs and alumni engagement, visited another university's campus to connect with senior leaders. One of them shared that they hosted an event, named with catchy alliteration, and handed out food. Dr. Whitely, competitive by nature, thought this may work with our students if adapted to a student-oriented time frame and made complete with a hearty snack. Alliteration made the snack selection easy - Pancakes with Pat was born! The first set of pancakes were served at our former residential colleges, Hecht and Stanford. The interest from students grew quickly, and there was an immediate need to add more locations throughout the year.
Currently expanded to host ten events annually at locations across campus, with student leaders invited to help serve the large crowds. On average, between 700-900 students attend each Pancakes with Pat; our largest, typically the first Pancakes with Pat of the academic year, feeds 1,300 students.
Behind the scenes, Pancakes with Pat is a true campus collaboration. The event would not be possible without the dedicated partnership between Housing and Residential Life and Dining. In celebration of the event's 10th anniversary, the Student Affairs Communications and Marketing team also reimagined the Pancakes with Pat brand, creating a refreshed visual identity and commemorative merchandise that honors the tradition's legacy while bringing a fresh, modern look to one of the University's most recognizable student engagement programs.
Dr. Whitely shared, "I never anticipated that I would be doing something like serving pancakes across campus in my career. It has truly been one of my favorite ways to connect with students. It is now a part of our campus culture. I get to meet new and continuing students, help our faculty and students connect with each other, and, of course, get to eat one of my favorite foods.”
As Pancakes with Pat celebrates its 10th anniversary, the beloved tradition continues to be much more than a late-night breakfast. For many students, it serves as a welcoming space to build connections, share conversations with university leaders, and foster a sense of community. Over the past decade, thousands of Canes have lined up for stacks of pancakes and their favorite toppings but have left with something even more meaningful: a memorable experience that reflects Dr. Whitely’s commitment to student engagement and belonging.
Last night’s anniversary celebration brought that spirit to life once again. Students filled the Lakeside Village Plaza, enjoying pancakes, music, newly designed t-shirts, and the opportunity to connect with friends, faculty, and staff as the new academic year begins. The energy throughout the evening highlighted why Pancakes with Pat has become one of the University’s most anticipated traditions.
Ten years after serving the first batch of pancakes, Dr. Whitely’s competitive idea has grown into a campus-wide phenomenon and a signature student experience. As new generations of Canes continue to gather around the griddle, one thing remains unchanged: the power of pancakes to bring people together.
Pancakes with Pat will continue throughout the academic year with the next event taking place September 23 at Centennial Village. Follow the Division of Student Affairs social media @UMiamiDosa for the latest updates and event information. Grab your friends, bring your Canes spirit, and join Dr. Whitely for pancakes, community, and connection.
Go Canes!
