Annette Brown

Annette began her professional journey as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) in 1988, a time when certification was not yet a requirement. Two years later, in 1990, I made the transition to the dietary department at the same facility. It was an unexpected shift, sparked by Mary Lou’s decision to hire me as a cook. Her excitement in sharing the news with my mother led to a humorous exchange, with my mom expressing surprise at the prospect of her daughter working as a cook, to which Mary Lou playfully responded, “No, as a cook.” My mom’s witty retort, “That girl doesn’t know how to boil water!” encapsulates the surprising turn my career took, as I found myself cooking for a hundred residents despite my lack of formal culinary training.

By 1992, I had progressed to a managerial role, and my aspirations led me to pursue education to become a dietitian from 1993 to 1998. Although life’s challenges intervened, preventing me from completing my studies, I have amassed a wealth of knowledge through years of hands-on experience working alongside dietitians.

With a passion for providing nutritious meals tailored to individual needs, my role involves not only supervising the kitchen operations but also accommodating special dietary requirements for residents with diverse needs, ensuring that each individual receives meals that align with their specific health considerations and preferences.

As a proud parent of two children and a devoted grandparent to four granddaughters, I embrace the joy of spoiling my grandchildren, a sentiment humorously acknowledged by my daughter’s jest that I love my grandchildren more than my own children. After all, what grandparent doesn’t revel in showering their grandchildren with affection and treats. I am excited to be at Homeplace and look forward to meeting you!