The Most Rewarding Career I’ve Ever Had

Commonwealth Senior Living at Radford‘s Dining Services Director is no stranger to the kitchen. Having worked in the restaurant business since the age of 16, Bobby has a wealth of experience preparing world-class meals at some of the best restaurants in Virginia. Last Fall, he was the winner of Commonwealth Senior Living’s 2nd Annual Taste of Home competition with Janice Wensel’s mixed-berry cobbler with ice-cream.

Why did you join Commonwealth Senior Living?

Bob Raymond, Vice-President of Dining Services, was a big influence on my decision. Commonwealth Senior Living really sets the bar when it comes to food. Their Farm to Table, clean-label products initiatives, and others offer our residents the freshest options available anywhere. We also have a robust clean label policy which means if you can’t find it in your pantry then we don’t serve it. We are a scratch kitchen where we build meals using actual ingredients – not packaged dishes. You don’t find that at other senior living providers or even a lot of restaurants.

What is your favorite thing about your job?

I was raised by my grandmother who recently passed away. Joining Commonwealth was like getting 60+ new grandparents. They are my family, and I love each and every one of them. It is such an honor to be a part of their lives, and it’s my opportunity to give back to folks who deserve to enjoy themselves. They shouldn’t have to worry about cleaning dishes or preparing good meals; that is my job. I really am blessed to work with our residents. Recently, I was serving a group of residents ice-cream and was joking with them that the only reason they like me is because I serve them ice-cream. They responded with: “We love you anyway, but the ice cream helps.” That is the type of interaction with residents that I love. We really are one big family.

What is your favorite food?

I’m a huge foodie! I love a variety of different things, but I’m definitely a meat and potatoes type of guy which is perfect because so are our residents here at Radford. Creating meals for them that they enjoy puts a smile on my face. This is the most rewarding career I’ve ever had.