Radiant Diamond Profile: Margaret, Food Services Director

Radiant Senior Living’s Mission Statement Recognition program highlights employees for their efforts and commitments in contributing to our common goal of our mission to create and sustain comfortable, caring environments for those who depend on us. Team members earn points each month from a variety of activities. There are four levels of Radiant Jewel awards given as milestones of achievement. The Radiant Diamonds have earned over 2,400 points. As part of a series, we will be featuring profiles of our Radiant Diamond winners.

Radiant Diamond: Margaret, Farmington Square in Medford, Oregon

Margaret T., a dedicated professional with an incredible 46-year tenure in senior living and 34 years at Farmington Square in Medford, serves as the Dining Services Director. Her journey into this field was unexpectedly sparked by an opportunity at her mother's workplace in a residential care community, leading her to a role that transformed her perspective on caregiving and food service.

At Farmington Square Medford, a memory-care community, Margaret values the intimate size of the community, fostering a close-knit environment where residents receive personalized care from staff and management alike. When asked to share her favorite memory of working at Farmington Square she replied, “Every resident that has come to live here has a special place in my heart. There are too many good memories.”

Margaret shared that her favorite part of her job is “watching residents eat a meal and clean their plates.” She feels most satisfied when she can encourage residents “to eat if they are at a point when things don’t taste good to them, and then finding something they will eat.”  The challenge of crafting menus tailored to residents' preferences proves both demanding and fulfilling, especially when it results in residents gaining weight and experiencing improved health.

For those venturing into a similar role, Margaret shared with us that you must “have a heart first for the residents you are working for.” She emphasized the significance of prioritizing the residents' well-being, taking pride in culinary creations, and persistently seeking ways to entice residents who may struggle with eating.

Outside of work, Margaret finds joy in her family, including two sisters, nieces, a nephew, and the endearing title of "Grandma Maree" bestowed upon her by two special youngsters. Her Fridays are devoted to spending time with them, assisting their parents, and attending their sports games, cheering them on in both baseball and basketball.

Margaret’s unwavering commitment to enhancing the lives of seniors through nourishment, care, and love epitomizes the dedication and compassion that she brings to her community.