Susie Nguyen Marks 50 Years of Cooking and Making Passavant Feel Like Home

As Passavant Community has grown into what it is today, one woman has quietly shaped it from behind the scenes in the kitchen, doing work that may not always be seen but is deeply appreciated.

This month, Passavant Community celebrates Ba Thi Nguyen, known to nearly everyone as Susie, as she marks 50 years of service. Her career spans nearly half the life of Passavant Community and reflects a dedication not built on recognition, but on pride and doing things well.

Her anniversary was honored with a surprise celebration in Baron’s Inn (and needless to say, she was very surprised).

Led in by Bek Hlavach, General Manager of Nutrition and Dining Services, Susie was greeted by Laura Roy, Executive Director of Passavant Community, and the culinary team she has worked alongside for decades. Residents and colleagues stopped by throughout the afternoon to share congratulations, memories, and thanks for the meals and moments she has provided over the years.

A table set aside for cards quickly filled with handwritten notes. Cake and appetizers were shared. But the highlight of the day was a special gift: a chef’s jacket, embroidered in gold with Susie’s name, commemorating 50 years of service.

Susie’s journey at Passavant began in 1976 as a dishwasher, speaking only one word of English: “Hello”. The year before, she and her family had fled Vietnam, part of the U.S.-sponsored evacuation after the fall of Saigon.

After time in Guam and resettlement in the United States, she made her way to Pennsylvania, determined to work and willing to learn.

She taught herself English by studying food tickets and listening carefully to those around her. Over time, she moved into the kitchen, where her talent, discipline, and attention to detail became unmistakable.

Today, she is best known for her soups, dishes that residents can identify instantly and request by name.

Colleagues describe Susie as meticulous and deeply committed to getting things right. Every meal matters because it reflects the care Passavant promises its residents. Even during severe winter weather, she has never missed a day. Showing up has always been part of her responsibility—and her dedication.

What sets Susie’s career apart is not just its length, but its consistency. Nearly half of Passavant Community’s history has unfolded alongside her. Her hands have prepared thousands of meals. Generations of residents have been nourished by food made with intention, care, and love.

Fifty years of showing up, of caring, and of perfecting every meal. That is what Susie has given Passavant Community. She has created more meals with impact than she will ever know, and her presence has left a mark on everyone fortunate enough to know her.

That is a legacy worth honoring.