All state school nutrition associations run with varying degrees of staff, depending on the support they receive. Clearly, one major factor is industry support. Specifically, these are companies that participate at annual exhibits. Frequently they display food products, kitchen equipment, software, and other offerings that can help kitchens run more efficiently. Winston Foodservice is proud to be a sponsoring vendor, on the state and national level.

Typically, each state association tries to mix things up. For many, their state show is the biggest support event of the year.

Frequently the conference culminates with an awards banquet. Clearly this year was exceptional…particularly for me.

I work with a School Nutrition Foundation committee assigned to interview School Nutrition Heroes. Critically, these are people who not only perform their jobs, but also work in the program. They go above and beyond, sometimes with difficult odds and outcomes to help super-serve their communities. These people are honored each year, along with a new group of five at School Nutrition’s Legislative Action Conference in Washington, D.C.

Alabama is one of only two states that has two heroes. 2013’s Karen Watson from Sylacauga City Schools (left) and 2016’s Samantha Ingram from Geneva County Schools (right).

Undoubtedly, I’m honored to know them and see the things they’ve accomplished. Clearly, it really is all about support. The membership, the state associations, the vendors, superintendents, principals, PTA, and on and on. A lot of effort from a lot of different places. But I can tell you, in my experience, the reward is awesome.