LRCC Chef Lisa Somerville releases second book

LACONIA — Chef Lisa Somerville is more than just a faculty member at Lakes Region Community College — she is a pastry powerhouse whose passion and expertise have taken her from the warmth of her family's kitchen to becoming a published author and renowned pastry chef. 

Somerville continues to inspire students and dessert lovers with two notable books to her name. Her first book, "Baking Formulas for the Professional Baker and Pastry Chef," was a resource of recipes she had collected and used over the years, designed to supplement the textbooks the students currently use.  

Her latest publication, "Holiday Cookie Recipe Collection," introduces a world of festive delights, featuring mouthwatering photographs and irresistible recipes perfect for holiday celebrations. Both books are available on Amazon, bringing her expertise to kitchens everywhere. 

Somerville's culinary journey began in childhood when she baked alongside her grandmother, mother, and aunt. The kitchen quickly became her sanctuary, offering peace amid life's hustle and bustle. 

Her professional baking career took an unexpected turn in 2002 when a leftover cheesecake she made for a holiday party impressed the manager of a neighboring restaurant, prompting her first professional order. From that serendipitous moment, Somerville advanced rapidly, eventually leading pastry teams in some of the most upscale hotels in New Hampshire's White Mountains. 

In 2009, driven by a desire to deepen her knowledge of retail baking and artisan bread, Somerville joined a local bakery, where she learned the ins and outs of the business. Just a year later, embracing entrepreneurship, Somerville and her husband opened Vintage Baking Company, delighting the White Mountains community with fresh, artisan breads and delectable pastries. 

Education has always been central to Somerville's mission. In 2009, she was asked to develop an Artisanal Bread Baking Course for White Mountains Community College, further showcasing her talent for teaching. 

In 2018, Lakes Region Community College proudly welcomed her to its Culinary Arts Department. At LRCC, Somerville teaches courses ranging from nutritional baking and baking technologies to breads and rolls, continually inspiring the next generation of bakers. 

Beyond teaching, Somerville shares her expertise as a culinary judge for ProStart and SkillsUSA Competitions across New Hampshire, nurturing the potential of aspiring culinary professionals. With each delicious creation and inspiring lesson, Somerville continues to shape the pastry world, one student and one recipe at a time.

For more information, visit LRCC.edu.