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August 22, 2025

Chef Shares Sentiments

Category: Senior Living

Author: Jacqueline Hesser, Culinary Director

Finding My Place in the Kitchen and Community

As Culinary Director at The Boulevard Senior Living of Wentzville, 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.

Senior woman smiles beside a chef holding a plate of lasagna, vegetables, and a roll, highlighting fresh, delicious dining at the senior living community.

When I first joined The Boulevard Wentzville, I had no intention of returning to management. I came on as a Care Partner but quickly recognized a need in the culinary department. I stepped in as the Dining Room Manager, and not long after, I transitioned into the Culinary Director role. By then, I had already fallen in love with the residents and staff in our community.

With over 20 years in management and more than a decade in fine dining, the transition to Culinary Director came naturally. That foundation helped me bring structure and creativity to the team while still focusing on the people we serve.

Driven by Connection and Feedback

What I enjoy most about working in senior living is the people—both the residents and my team. They’re the heart of everything we do.

Each morning, I start my day by checking the comment bucket. Resident feedback is essential—it’s how we grow, improve, and meet their needs with excellence.

To anyone considering a culinary career in senior living, I’d say make sure your heart is in the right place. When you’re here for the right reasons, you’ll feel the rewards just as much as you see them.

A Simple Recipe for Success

For me, success is simple: smiles on the faces of our staff and residents.

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 Boulevard Senior Living of Wentzville in Wentzville, MO 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 SSM Lake St. Louis Hospital with convenient access to major shopping centers, including Bear Creek Golf Club, Wentzville Bluffs Shopping Center, Wentzville B&B Movie Theater, Quail Ridge Park, Wentzville Flea Market, and The Meadows at Lake St. Louis.

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The Boulevard Senior Living of Wentzville 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.

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