Stever Seiler, Director of Dining Services

Steve Seiler is more than just a highly competent Chef and Director. Steve’s background in finance is formidable. His training at Le Cordon Bleu is impeccable. And his administrative expertise is impressive. But Steve offers something so much more valuable to Atherton: He understands that his job isn’t about food; it is about people.

Like his signature Presidential Pie, under the crusty outer shell, Steve has a surprisingly sweet and soft center.  For  eleven years, as the Director of Dining Services, Steve has overseen the purchase, preparation and delivery of well over 25,000 meals a month. He has a well-earned reputation as a stickler for detail and a manager with the highest standards of cleanliness and customer service. Under Steve’s innovative leadership, the Atherton dining program has shown continuous improvement. Years ago, Steve pioneered the concept of socialized dining in our skilled nursing. He opened Hannah’s Café, greatly expanded choices and menus, and more than tripled the number of catered events on campus.  He expects a great deal from his staff and they consistently deliver for Atherton.

Steve’s success, however, may be that his staff know how deeply Steve cares for them and for the residents he serves. Whether playing cards with a lonely resident, helping someone new to find a comfortable table of new friends, or giving up his weekend to help with an event, Steve models servant leadership. If you press him to talk about it, Steve can relate the names of young staff he has encouraged to attend college over the years, and some whose success he still follows to this day. Steve is a fierce advocate for his team, and he works hard to be flexible and considerate when personal needs arise. The inescapable conclusion is that Steve cares viscerally about the 52  people he manages and the 400 residents he serves. Steve just couldn’t do it any other way.

What is most gratifying to you about your work at Atherton?
“I like the people I work with. Unlike any other place I’ve worked, the people truly care. Residents and staff care for one another.”