August 22, 2025
As Culinary Director at The KentRidge Senior Living, I approach each day with passion, not just purpose. I face new challenges, hear new stories, and find fresh reasons to feel grateful. I’m excited to share how I arrived in this role, what fuels my dedication, and what a typical day looks like in our community. My work goes beyond preparing meals—it centers on building connections, creating purpose, and making a real difference where it counts.
After spending ten years in the restaurant industry, I transitioned into senior living to embrace a more balanced pace while continuing to pursue my love of the culinary arts.
Managing restaurants gave me a strong foundation in leadership, operations, and high-volume service. At the same time, my wife’s experience as a CNA gave me early insight into assisted living. Her stories helped me understand the unique needs of this environment, even before I stepped into it myself.
What I value most about working in senior living is the opportunity to build personal connections with residents. In restaurants, you often cook for people you may never see again. Here, I get to know the individuals I serve—and that adds so much meaning to every meal.
Each morning, I focus on office responsibilities first so I can spend the rest of the day where I belong: in the kitchen. Working alongside my team keeps me close to the heart of our operations and allows me to lead by example.
To anyone considering a culinary career in senior living, I offer this advice: don’t wait. If you’re searching for balance and purpose, this path offers both. The pace is sustainable, and the impact you make is lasting.
For me, success means bringing joy to others through food—and getting to do what I love every day. Having the chance to work alongside my amazing wife makes the experience even more rewarding.
At day’s end, I take the greatest pride in knowing I’ve contributed something meaningful—whether it’s a favorite dish, a heartfelt conversation, or a comforting moment. Thank you for welcoming me into your community and allowing me to serve at your table. I’m truly honored.
The KentRidge Senior Living in Kent, OH offers independent senior apartments, assisted living, and memory care with a variety of services and a range of floor plan options. Amenities include restaurant dining, 24-hour bistro, concierge service, housekeeping, events and entertainment, personal care, transportation services, and more. Centrally located near University Hospital Portage Medical Center with convenient access to major shopping centers and attractions, including Sunny Hill Golf & Recreation Inc, Stow-Kent Shopping Center, Kent State Univeristy Museum, The Portage Hike & Bike Trail, and Mad Cap Brewing Company.
The KentRidge Senior Living serves and employs individuals of all faiths, regardless of race, color, gender, sexual orientation, national origin, age or handicap, except as limited by state and federal law.
