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Celebrating Culinary Artistry

Liberty Senior Living of Wilmington, North Carolina, celebrated the culinary artistry of its chefs during the organization’s inaugural Liberty Top Chef Competition. Hosted by The Barclay at SouthPark senior living community in Charlotte, the event highlighted the skills of the culinary team members and helped to define some of the meals offered within the communities.

A Showcase of Skill and Creativity

Five executive chefs representing Liberty’s independent living communities competed in this final round, each demonstrating exceptional talent, passion, and attention to detail. The competition featured an appetizer round followed by a dessert for the remaining top three finalists. Dishes were judged on creativity, presentation, and flavor by a panel that included Liberty leadership, a representative from the resident dining committee, and guest chef Jerry Lanuzza, an associate professor at Johnson & Wales University.

A Perfect Score for the Top Chef

Chef Pam Ballard of South Bay at Mount Pleasant in South Carolina earned the title of Liberty’s Top Chef, achieving a rare perfect score. Her winning dishes included a pan-seared scallop, forbidden rice, tempura crab and caviar appetizer, and an after-dinner edible dark chocolate coffee cup dessert featuring Kahlua-soaked devil’s food cake, avocado chocolate mousse, and espresso crème.

Celebrating Team Spirit and Excellence

“This competition was a wonderful opportunity to celebrate our talented chefs and the passion they bring to every meal served in our communities,” said Bobby Senter, Liberty Senior Living’s Corporate Culinary Service Specialist. “Every participant was a winner, and the event truly showcased the creativity and excellence that define Liberty’s culinary program.”

An Event to Remember

Festive decorations, ice carvings, and live streaming to Liberty communities added to the excitement as residents and guests cheered on their favorite chefs.

A Commitment to Culinary Innovation

The Top Chef Competition underscored Liberty Senior Living’s commitment to providing residents with fresh, flavorful, creative, and beautifully crafted meals prepared by professionals who take pride in their craft, making dining one of the many joys of life at Liberty communities.



Liberty Senior Living Chefs Turn Up the Heat in Inaugural Top Chef Competition Event Showcases Culinary Excellence and Innovation in Senior Living Dining

November 14, 2025

Celebrating Culinary Artistry Liberty Senior Living of Wilmington, North Carolina, celebrated the culinary artistry of its chefs during the organization’s inaugural Liberty Top Chef Competition. Hosted by The Barclay at SouthPark senior living community in Charlotte, the event highlighted the skills of the culinary team members and helped to define some of the meals offered . . . Read More


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