Rita Gronski may be most comfortable in her chef’s coat, but with praise and support from many residents like Dwight, she’s now serving from a new menu – the role of Executive Director for Rita not only was responsible for providing delicious meals and
snacks at Brentwood for 11 years, but she’s also managed one of the community’s
most complex departments ensuring that residents have the right nutrition for
their specific needs. Her 30 years of experience in senior care have taught her
that it’s all about choice. “The residents here have a choice in their menu,” Rita explains. “When
they come here, they have their voice and their choice in food, where they may have
given up their choice about things like driving. If they have a recipe that
they’ve made from when they were a kid, we will bring it into to the kitchen
and we will make it.” Dwight sees this personal touch as a compelling advantage
about Brentwood, especially for his sweet tooth, “I relate to the variety of
food. For instance, we have a lot of homemade desserts here.” Rita will continue to spend time with new residents when they move
in, “I want to know them. This is my time to visit with them and know their
likes and dislikes.” Rita’s leadership skills and devotion to the customer come in part
from her ownership of an area family restaurant prior to becoming Brentwood’s
culinary manager. A dietary management certification from the University of
Wisconsin at River Falls provided her academic training. Her work-ethic goes back to growing up on a
diversified livestock and dairy farm. “We are delighted to welcome Rita to her new position,” said VPC
Chief Operating Officer Anna Petersmeyer. “Rita has become a trusted resource
for the residents, in many ways beyond great food.” The Brentwood community offers 28 one
and two-bedroom apartments for seniors who value their independence but want options
for personal care and supportive services. We also offer 19 memory care suites
that provide a long-term option for seniors diagnosed with Alzheimer's or other
forms of dementia.
