#USA #Chicago #Senior Living #Culinary Innovation #DISHED Awards

Celebrating Culinary Excellence: The DISHED Awards 2026

On June 23, 2026, WTWH Healthcare proudly announced the Class of 2026 for the DISHED Senior Living Dining Innovation Awards. This prestigious program shines a light on individuals who have distinguished themselves within the senior living sector by revolutionizing dining experiences.

The DISHED Awards recognize culinary visionaries who are passionate about transforming the way meals are experienced in senior living communities. From reimagining menus to enhancing the overall dining atmosphere, these innovators are not just focused on nourishment; they are creating engaging, memorable dining experiences that enhance the lives of residents.

Tim Mullaney, the VP and Editorial Director of WTWH Healthcare, emphasized the importance of these recognition awards, stating, “The innovators we’re recognizing demonstrate what senior living can be at its best. They are creating dining experiences that nourish both body and soul while also driving meaningful business outcomes, including increased occupancy and improved public perception of the industry.”

Categories of Excellence

The awards celebrate excellence across several categories, showcasing the diversity of talent within the senior living dining scene. The honorees for the Class of 2026 include:

Culinary Canvas

This category highlights individuals who excel in presenting dining programs across various marketing platforms, enhancing the visibility and appeal of culinary offerings. Notable winners include:

• - Adrian Wiggin - Director of Food Service at The Bristal Assisted Living at York Avenue
• - Adriana Luna - Culinary Services Director at Sunny Rose Senior Living
• - Paul Senken - Corporate Director of Culinary Services at The Bristal Assisted Living
• - Zachary Willy - Area Dining Services Director at Brookdale

Elevating the Experience

Here, honorees are recognized for their efforts in enhancing programming and service levels, all aimed at elevating the dining experience for seniors. Winners include:

• - Aaron Huelsing - Senior Executive Chef at Merrill Gardens
• - Adam Hrebiniak - Vice President of Culinary Operations at Gallaher Signature Living
• - Chris Spezial - Director of Culinary Services at Atria Senior Living
• - Deonna Barnett - Dining Services Director at Brookdale
• - Drew Conant - Executive Chef at Jenner’s Pond, a Simpson Community

Operational Optimizer

This category honors those trailblazers who adopt new models to enhance operational efficiency. Key winners include:

• - Chad Bonsell - Culinary Services Director at The Lighthouse at Chico
• - Getty Lustere - Culinary Services Director at Leisure Vale Assisted Living
• - Morocco Terrell - Dining Services Director at Brookdale

Palate Pleaser

This award honors chefs and culinary professionals whose creativity and skills in meal preparation have set new standards. Noteworthy winners include:

• - Anthony Napolitano - Executive Chef at Edgehill, a Benchmark Senior Living CCR
• - Marisol Huizar - Culinary Services Director at Wildomar Senior Assisted Living

Partner in Innovation

Recognizing vendors who contribute to the advancement of dining services in senior living, this category emphasizes collaboration and support. Winner:

• - Matt Fonte - President & Founder at ColdSnap

Conclusion

The DISHED Senior Living Dining Innovation Awards Class of 2026 not only celebrates culinary talent but also highlights the important role that dining plays in enhancing the overall quality of life for senior residents. By embracing innovation and creativity in their culinary offerings, these award recipients are setting new benchmarks in the dining experience for seniors across the nation. For more details about this year’s honored individuals and their impactful work, visit the official DISHED Awards website.