The Commons in Lincoln’s Chef Nina Quirk Recognized with National Award for Excellence in Senior Living Dining
Chef Nina Quirk, the innovative campus culinary services director at The Commons in Lincoln, a continuing care retirement community managed by Benchmark Senior Living, has been honored by a national senior living publication for elevating the resident dining experience. WTWH Healthcare has named Chef Nina to its DISHED Senior Living Dining Innovation Awards Class of 2026.
National Recognition for Senior Living Dining Innovation
The award recognizes visionaries in the senior living industry who are transforming senior living dining. Chef Nina was recognized in the “Elevating the Experience” category for her creative use of local ingredients and delivering excellence in the resident culinary experience. She joined The Commons in Lincoln in 2023, successfully elevating the community’s dining program while tailoring it to meet the needs and wishes of residents.
Leadership and Impact on Resident Experience
“Nina’s culinary approach is creative and inspiring. Her passion for her work is apparent every day, as is her care for our residents,” said Benchmark Senior Campus Executive Director Adam Manchester. “Through her dedication, patience, warmth and remarkable attention to detail, she elevated not only the quality of the meals that residents enjoy, but also the overall service and dining experience. Her impact on resident satisfaction has been both meaningful and lasting.”
A Culinary Philosophy Centered on Resident “Food Voice”
Chef Nina’s philosophy centers on understanding each resident’s preferences, habits and dietary needs, or “food voice” through observation and conversation. She understands the value of resident feedback and residents are encouraged to share their own family favorites and cherished recipes, which Chef Nina brings to life alongside a wide variety of scratch-made dishes, low-sodium preparations and sugar-free options.
Culinary Background and Personal Inspiration
Chef Nina was educated in Gastronomy at Boston University, and she has worked in senior living culinary programs for more than a decade—it is her passion. “I was raised in a family restaurant and shaped by the deep connections I had with my grandmothers. They were my earliest role models and instilled in me not only a passion for cooking but an understanding of how food brings people together. That foundation continues to guide my philosophy today, especially in my work with seniors,” she says. “I believe deeply in the holistic impact of food—not just for nourishment, but for the connection, memories and sense of community it creates.”
WTWH Healthcare Recognizes Industry Dining Innovators
WTWH Healthcare, the publisher of Senior Housing News, recognized 27 senior living dining innovators across five categories. In addition to Chef Nina, one other dining professional from Benchmark Senior Living communities was honored.