Calithera Biosciences Celebrates Culinary Leadership: Jorge Antuna's Excellence at Belmont Village
- Jorge Antuna, Chef Manager at Belmont Village Calabasas, won CALA's Excellence in Service Award for culinary excellence.
- Antuna enhances residents' quality of life through exceptional dining experiences and mentorship within the culinary team.
- His leadership aligns with Belmont Village's mission, positively impacting both residents and staff in senior living communities.
Celebrating Culinary Excellence in Senior Living
Belmont Village Senior Living, a leading operator of senior living communities across the United States, highlights the importance of exceptional service and leadership within its organization. The recent recognition of Jorge Antuna, Chef Manager at Belmont Village Calabasas, with the California Assisted Living Association (CALA) Excellence in Service Award during the 2024 CALA Fall Conference, underscores the pivotal role of culinary excellence in enhancing the quality of life for residents. Antuna, who has dedicated over 18 years to the company, is celebrated not only for his culinary skills but also for his leadership in fostering a committed and caring community atmosphere.
Antuna’s contributions extend beyond just meal preparation; he is instrumental in crafting extraordinary dining experiences that cater to the diverse needs of residents. Nancy Nelson, the Executive Director of Belmont Village Calabasas, commends Antuna for his ability to create incredible meals while being attuned to the preferences and dietary requirements of the community. His leadership style emphasizes mentorship, as he actively guides his team to uphold high standards of service and culinary creativity. This commitment to excellence has made him a valued member of the Belmont Village family, showcasing how impactful leadership can enhance the overall living experience for seniors.
In addition to his culinary achievements, Antuna engages in creative endeavors that enrich community life, such as designing elaborate event décor and participating in a sustainable fashion campaign. His influence is felt throughout Belmont Village’s various locations, as he shares his expertise and support during transitions, fostering a culture of care that resonates across the organization. Mercedes Kerr, President of Belmont Village Senior Living, highlights Antuna’s alignment with the company’s mission, emphasizing that his dedication positively impacts both residents and staff alike, reinforcing the company’s commitment to providing an exceptional living environment.
Belmont Village operates 34 locations nationwide, employing over 4,600 staff members and providing award-winning assisted living and memory care programs. The company continues to collaborate with esteemed institutions such as Baptist Health South Florida and UC San Diego, focusing on enhancing cognitive health and evidence-based enrichment programs for its residents. With a significant presence in key markets, including South Florida and the San Francisco Bay Area, Belmont Village remains a leader in senior living, dedicated to improving the lives of seniors through innovative and compassionate care.
As the senior living industry evolves, the recognition of individuals like Jorge Antuna illustrates the critical role that culinary expertise and leadership play in creating supportive and enriching environments for older adults, emphasizing the holistic approach needed in modern senior care.