First Timer's Connection Session
Feeding the Future: Building Financially Sustainable Nutrition Programs Amid Rising Costs
Andrea Early, MS, RDN
Prince William County Public Schools
Director of Food and Nutrition
Andrea Early is the Director of Food and Nutrition Services for Prince William County Public Schools, where she leads efforts to provide nutritious, high-quality meals to students. She previously served as Director of School Nutrition for Harrisonburg City Public Schools, bringing years of experience in supporting both student well-being and employee success. Andrea has also served for many years as SNA-VA Public Policy and Legislative Chair, offering strong leadership and advocacy for school nutrition programs across Virginia.
Feeding the Future: Building Financially Sustainable Nutrition Programs Amid Rising Costs
Andrea Early, MS, RDN
Prince William County Public Schools
Director of Food and Nutrition
Andrea Early is the Director of Food and Nutrition Services for Prince William County Public Schools, where she leads efforts to provide nutritious, high-quality meals to students. She previously served as Director of School Nutrition for Harrisonburg City Public Schools, bringing years of experience in supporting both student well-being and employee success. Andrea has also served for many years as SNA-VA Public Policy and Legislative Chair, offering strong leadership and advocacy for school nutrition programs across Virginia.
Something's Missing from your Menu: Food Allergy Management Plan
Marion Elder
Dinwiddie County Public Schools
Director of School Nutrition
Marion Elder is the Director of School Nutrition for Dinwiddie County Public Schools in Virginia, bringing over 30 years of experience in school nutrition to her role. She leads the division’s School Nutrition Services program, overseeing a team of approximately 45 staff members who prepare and serve nutritious meals across seven schools. Under her leadership, the program serves more than 600,000 meals annually while upholding high standards of nutrition, food safety, customer service, and fiscal responsibility.
A dedicated advocate for children, Ms. Elder is a firm believer that a hungry child cannot learn and is committed to ensuring all students have access to healthy, high-quality meals that support their overall wellness and academic success. In recognition of her leadership and innovation in school nutrition, she was honored as one of the 2025 Chef Ann Foundation’s School Food Renegades. She also serves as Vice President of the School Nutrition Association of Virginia (SNA-VA) and is a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Ms. Elder holds a Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Management from the Virginia University of Lynchburg and a Master of Science in Leadership from Grand Canyon University.
In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her grandchildren and family, volunteering at various community events for children, cooking, traveling, and trying new restaurants.
Marion Elder
Dinwiddie County Public Schools
Director of School Nutrition
Marion Elder is the Director of School Nutrition for Dinwiddie County Public Schools in Virginia, bringing over 30 years of experience in school nutrition to her role. She leads the division’s School Nutrition Services program, overseeing a team of approximately 45 staff members who prepare and serve nutritious meals across seven schools. Under her leadership, the program serves more than 600,000 meals annually while upholding high standards of nutrition, food safety, customer service, and fiscal responsibility.
A dedicated advocate for children, Ms. Elder is a firm believer that a hungry child cannot learn and is committed to ensuring all students have access to healthy, high-quality meals that support their overall wellness and academic success. In recognition of her leadership and innovation in school nutrition, she was honored as one of the 2025 Chef Ann Foundation’s School Food Renegades. She also serves as Vice President of the School Nutrition Association of Virginia (SNA-VA) and is a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Ms. Elder holds a Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Management from the Virginia University of Lynchburg and a Master of Science in Leadership from Grand Canyon University.
In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her grandchildren and family, volunteering at various community events for children, cooking, traveling, and trying new restaurants.
General Session: Chef Ann Foundation Panel Discussion - Growing and Upscaling the School Food Workforce
Natalie Farrell, MPH
Chef Ann Foundation
Director, Multistate Workforce Programs
Natalie has operational and leadership experience in a wide range of mission-driven food spaces,
from farms to commercial kitchens to food hubs and beyond. After receiving her B.S. in Food
Systems from the University of Minnesota, Natalie focused her work on supporting the skills,
networks, and infrastructure needed to create strong local food systems. Natalie is motivated by the
belief that all people – and especially our youngest eaters – should have access to the food they need to thrive and that a healthy food system should nourish people, land, and animals. Her interest
in the intersection of food and health led her to pursue a Master’s degree in Public Health, which she completed in May 2024 at the University of Minnesota.
Natalie Farrell, MPH
Chef Ann Foundation
Director, Multistate Workforce Programs
Natalie has operational and leadership experience in a wide range of mission-driven food spaces,
from farms to commercial kitchens to food hubs and beyond. After receiving her B.S. in Food
Systems from the University of Minnesota, Natalie focused her work on supporting the skills,
networks, and infrastructure needed to create strong local food systems. Natalie is motivated by the
belief that all people – and especially our youngest eaters – should have access to the food they need to thrive and that a healthy food system should nourish people, land, and animals. Her interest
in the intersection of food and health led her to pursue a Master’s degree in Public Health, which she completed in May 2024 at the University of Minnesota.
General Session: Chef Ann Foundation Panel Discussion - Growing and Upscaling the School Food Workforce
Kelsey Glass, MEd
Chef Ann Foundation
Senior Director of Workforce Development
Kelsey joined the Chef Ann Foundation in March of 2023 and serves as the Senior Director of
Workforce Development. In this role, Kelsey leverages her experience and expertise in Registered
Apprenticeship to support the expansion of the Health School Food Pathway program nationwide.
This program is centered on building and upskilling the school food workforce by providing
professional development and work experience opportunities in scratch-cook meal programs.
Under her leadership, Healthy School Food Pathway programs are now in Colorado, Virginia, and,
soon, New York.
Kelsey Glass, MEd
Chef Ann Foundation
Senior Director of Workforce Development
Kelsey joined the Chef Ann Foundation in March of 2023 and serves as the Senior Director of
Workforce Development. In this role, Kelsey leverages her experience and expertise in Registered
Apprenticeship to support the expansion of the Health School Food Pathway program nationwide.
This program is centered on building and upskilling the school food workforce by providing
professional development and work experience opportunities in scratch-cook meal programs.
Under her leadership, Healthy School Food Pathway programs are now in Colorado, Virginia, and,
soon, New York.
It’s Your Moment to Grow: Farm to Tray with Indoor Hydroponics
Joseph Guthrie
Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services
Former Commissioner
Joe Guthrie is the owner and principal of Wexford Oaks Consulting. Prior to founding that company, he served for four years as Commissioner of the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) under Governor Glenn Youngkin. As Commissioner, Joe led an agency with a mission to promote the economic development of Virginia agriculture, provide consumer protection, and encourage environmental sustainability. He brings to the job decades of experience in production agriculture as a 6th-generation owner of a beef cattle farm in Pulaski County. He also has fifteen years of experience as a member of the faculty of the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Virginia Tech. His previous public service includes ten years as a local elected official in Pulaski County with four years on the school board and six years on the Board of Supervisors, including the final two as Chair.
Joe holds degrees in Agricultural Economics from Virginia Tech and from Massey University in New Zealand where he was a Fulbright Scholar. He and his wife Carol have three grown children and divide their time between Richmond and the farm in Pulaski County.
Joseph Guthrie
Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services
Former Commissioner
Joe Guthrie is the owner and principal of Wexford Oaks Consulting. Prior to founding that company, he served for four years as Commissioner of the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) under Governor Glenn Youngkin. As Commissioner, Joe led an agency with a mission to promote the economic development of Virginia agriculture, provide consumer protection, and encourage environmental sustainability. He brings to the job decades of experience in production agriculture as a 6th-generation owner of a beef cattle farm in Pulaski County. He also has fifteen years of experience as a member of the faculty of the College of Agriculture and Life Sciences at Virginia Tech. His previous public service includes ten years as a local elected official in Pulaski County with four years on the school board and six years on the Board of Supervisors, including the final two as Chair.
Joe holds degrees in Agricultural Economics from Virginia Tech and from Massey University in New Zealand where he was a Fulbright Scholar. He and his wife Carol have three grown children and divide their time between Richmond and the farm in Pulaski County.
Decoding Documentation: PFS, CN Labels, FBG, & Exhibit A
Amy Klein, SNS
Virginia Department of Education, Office of School and Community Nutrition Programs
SNP Regional Specialist
Amy is a School Nutrition Programs Regional Specialist for the Virginia Department of Education, Office of School and Community Nutrition Programs. She plays a key role in supporting federal child nutrition programs through technical assistance, program oversight, and strong partnerships with school nutrition program directors. Amy has a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Northern Kentucky University. She obtained her SNS credential in 2025. Before joining the state agency, Amy worked for a school division in Kentucky for nine years, focusing on menu planning and ensuring compliance with USDA nutrition standards.
Amy Klein, SNS
Virginia Department of Education, Office of School and Community Nutrition Programs
SNP Regional Specialist
Amy is a School Nutrition Programs Regional Specialist for the Virginia Department of Education, Office of School and Community Nutrition Programs. She plays a key role in supporting federal child nutrition programs through technical assistance, program oversight, and strong partnerships with school nutrition program directors. Amy has a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Northern Kentucky University. She obtained her SNS credential in 2025. Before joining the state agency, Amy worked for a school division in Kentucky for nine years, focusing on menu planning and ensuring compliance with USDA nutrition standards.
From Trend to Tray: Engaging Students to Market Your School Meals
Jenn Knepper, MPH, RDN
Fairfax County Public Schools
Registered Dietitian and Menu Planner
Jenn Knepper, MPH, RDN, is a Registered Dietitian with nearly eight years of experience in school food service. She holds a Master’s in Public Health from West Chester University and a Bachelor’s in Dietetics from Indiana University of Pennsylvania, and completed her dietetic internship with the Florida Department of Agriculture, focusing on USDA Child Nutrition Programs. Jenn currently serves as the Registered Dietitian and Menu Planner for Fairfax County Public Schools, leading menu and recipe development, procurement support, and dietary accommodations for nearly 100,000 meals daily across 200 schools. She also guides the district’s transition to scratch cooking with a focus on cultural and inclusive meals. Previously, Jenn managed menus, recipes, and procurement for DC Public Schools. She believes cafeterias should inspire students to enjoy new foods and build lifelong healthy habits.
Jenn Knepper, MPH, RDN
Fairfax County Public Schools
Registered Dietitian and Menu Planner
Jenn Knepper, MPH, RDN, is a Registered Dietitian with nearly eight years of experience in school food service. She holds a Master’s in Public Health from West Chester University and a Bachelor’s in Dietetics from Indiana University of Pennsylvania, and completed her dietetic internship with the Florida Department of Agriculture, focusing on USDA Child Nutrition Programs. Jenn currently serves as the Registered Dietitian and Menu Planner for Fairfax County Public Schools, leading menu and recipe development, procurement support, and dietary accommodations for nearly 100,000 meals daily across 200 schools. She also guides the district’s transition to scratch cooking with a focus on cultural and inclusive meals. Previously, Jenn managed menus, recipes, and procurement for DC Public Schools. She believes cafeterias should inspire students to enjoy new foods and build lifelong healthy habits.
Nourishing Your Mind: Supporting Mental Wellness in the Fast-Paced School Nutrition Environment
Dr. Robert M. Kuschel, LPC
Regent University
Director of Counseling Services
Dr. Robert M. Kuschel, LPC
Regent University
Director of Counseling Services
Creating Successful Food Bars: What Staff Need to Know
Huong Lam, SNS
Virginia Department of Education, Office of School and Community Nutrition Programs
School Nutrition Programs Specialist
Huong Lam, SNS, is a School Nutrition Programs Specialist with the Virginia Department of Education’s Office of School and Community Nutrition Programs. She supports school divisions with program compliance, technical assistance, and training. Previously, she served as a Food Service Director for a school district in Northern Nevada. Huong holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Food and Nutrition Management from Arizona State University and the School Nutrition Specialist credential.
Huong Lam, SNS
Virginia Department of Education, Office of School and Community Nutrition Programs
School Nutrition Programs Specialist
Huong Lam, SNS, is a School Nutrition Programs Specialist with the Virginia Department of Education’s Office of School and Community Nutrition Programs. She supports school divisions with program compliance, technical assistance, and training. Previously, she served as a Food Service Director for a school district in Northern Nevada. Huong holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Food and Nutrition Management from Arizona State University and the School Nutrition Specialist credential.
Pre-Conference Session: The Manager's Recipe: Serving Up Leadership
Shane Logan, Chef
Chesterfield County Public Schools Food and Nutrition Services
Field Supervisor
Shane Logan serves as a Field Supervisor for Chesterfield County Public Schools for the past four years, he has worked at both the local and state levels, supporting school nutrition programs and initiatives. Prior to this role, Shane spent more than two decades in the food service industry and taught high school culinary arts, where he shared his expertise and passion for cooking with students.
Shane holds a culinary degree from the French Culinary Institute in New York City and a bachelor's degree in Liberal Arts and Education from the University of Richmond. His work in school nutrition allows him to blend his love for food, child nutrition, and teaching.
Shane Logan, Chef
Chesterfield County Public Schools Food and Nutrition Services
Field Supervisor
Shane Logan serves as a Field Supervisor for Chesterfield County Public Schools for the past four years, he has worked at both the local and state levels, supporting school nutrition programs and initiatives. Prior to this role, Shane spent more than two decades in the food service industry and taught high school culinary arts, where he shared his expertise and passion for cooking with students.
Shane holds a culinary degree from the French Culinary Institute in New York City and a bachelor's degree in Liberal Arts and Education from the University of Richmond. His work in school nutrition allows him to blend his love for food, child nutrition, and teaching.
It’s Your Moment to Grow: Farm to Tray with Indoor Hydroponics
Sue Malesa
Fork Farms
VP, Food Service
Sue Malesa is a dynamic leader known for driving innovation and growth in the school nutrition landscape. With a proven track record of success over 25 years as a School Nutrition Director, Sue has established herself as someone who can lead others to accomplish great things. Sue’s years as a school nutrition professional were marked by incredible growth and success in her programs.
Driven by a passion for school nutrition and a desire to create meaningful change, Sue joined Fork Farms with a shared clear mission: to defend the human right to fresh food so that all people can achieve their full potential. Sue has helped Fork Farms make a tremendous impact on the K12 nutrition sector and on STEM collaboration, becoming a trusted name in the hydroponic industry.
At the heart of Sue’s leadership is a commitment to excellence in all endeavors. She helps inspire and empower the districts she works with to foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement, making a significant impact on the communities they serve.
Sue Malesa
Fork Farms
VP, Food Service
Sue Malesa is a dynamic leader known for driving innovation and growth in the school nutrition landscape. With a proven track record of success over 25 years as a School Nutrition Director, Sue has established herself as someone who can lead others to accomplish great things. Sue’s years as a school nutrition professional were marked by incredible growth and success in her programs.
Driven by a passion for school nutrition and a desire to create meaningful change, Sue joined Fork Farms with a shared clear mission: to defend the human right to fresh food so that all people can achieve their full potential. Sue has helped Fork Farms make a tremendous impact on the K12 nutrition sector and on STEM collaboration, becoming a trusted name in the hydroponic industry.
At the heart of Sue’s leadership is a commitment to excellence in all endeavors. She helps inspire and empower the districts she works with to foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and continuous improvement, making a significant impact on the communities they serve.
It’s Your Moment to Grow: Farm to Tray with Indoor Hydroponics
Sam Malesa
Fork Farms
VP, Northeast Region
Sam leads partnership development across the Northeast at Fork Farms, where he works closely with school districts, nonprofits, and community partners to expand access to fresh food and hands-on growing experiences. His work focuses on building long-term relationships, supporting implementation on the ground, and helping partners align indoor growing with their educational, wellness, and sustainability goals.
With a background in biology and plant disease, Sam brings a deep understanding of plant health, systems thinking, and applied science to his work. Prior to joining Fork Farms in 2022, he gained experience as a Senior Territory Manager for a Fortune 100 CPG organization, as well as in Product Safety Science at Kimberly-Clark and environmental analytics lab work. This blend of technical and relationship-driven experience shapes his approach to supporting partners throughout New England.
Based in Concord, New Hampshire, Sam is energized by work that connects education, food systems, and environmental stewardship. Fork Farms represents a rare intersection of his professional background, personal interests, and core values.
Sam Malesa
Fork Farms
VP, Northeast Region
Sam leads partnership development across the Northeast at Fork Farms, where he works closely with school districts, nonprofits, and community partners to expand access to fresh food and hands-on growing experiences. His work focuses on building long-term relationships, supporting implementation on the ground, and helping partners align indoor growing with their educational, wellness, and sustainability goals.
With a background in biology and plant disease, Sam brings a deep understanding of plant health, systems thinking, and applied science to his work. Prior to joining Fork Farms in 2022, he gained experience as a Senior Territory Manager for a Fortune 100 CPG organization, as well as in Product Safety Science at Kimberly-Clark and environmental analytics lab work. This blend of technical and relationship-driven experience shapes his approach to supporting partners throughout New England.
Based in Concord, New Hampshire, Sam is energized by work that connects education, food systems, and environmental stewardship. Fork Farms represents a rare intersection of his professional background, personal interests, and core values.
Eat with Your Eyes, Taste with Your Mouth
Kathy Meade, SNA Certified Level 4
Loudoun County Public Schools
School Nutrition Specialist
Kathy has more than 20 years of experience as a school nutrition manager. She has also served as a training manager and has held multiple leadership roles with the School Nutrition Association of Virginia (SNA-VA), including Region 1 Director and Regional Chair Director. Kathy was selected as an SNA-VA Future Leader recipient in recognition of her leadership and commitment to the profession.
In addition to her work in school nutrition, Kathy is an accomplished photographer. Her work has earned multiple awards and has been featured on websites, in magazines, and across social media platforms. She has received Best Display honors for Rev Your Bev in the state of Virginia, as well as an award from Eggcellent. Kathy has a passion for photography and presentation design, enjoying the opportunity to showcase creativity and uniqueness through visual storytelling.
Kathy Meade, SNA Certified Level 4
Loudoun County Public Schools
School Nutrition Specialist
Kathy has more than 20 years of experience as a school nutrition manager. She has also served as a training manager and has held multiple leadership roles with the School Nutrition Association of Virginia (SNA-VA), including Region 1 Director and Regional Chair Director. Kathy was selected as an SNA-VA Future Leader recipient in recognition of her leadership and commitment to the profession.
In addition to her work in school nutrition, Kathy is an accomplished photographer. Her work has earned multiple awards and has been featured on websites, in magazines, and across social media platforms. She has received Best Display honors for Rev Your Bev in the state of Virginia, as well as an award from Eggcellent. Kathy has a passion for photography and presentation design, enjoying the opportunity to showcase creativity and uniqueness through visual storytelling.
Using AI to Transform School Nutrition
Andrea Nannery, RDN, SNS
Virginia Department of Education, Office of School and Community Nutrition Programs
School Nutrition Programs Coordinator
Andrea Nannery, RDN, SNS, serves as the School Nutrition Programs Coordinator for the Virginia Department of Education’s Office of School and Community Nutrition Programs. In this role, she oversees the administration of the National School Lunch Program, School Breakfast Program, Afterschool Snack Program, and the Seamless Summer Option across the Commonwealth. A registered dietitian and mom of three, Andrea is passionate about helping children establish healthy eating habits that set the foundation for a lifetime of wellness. She holds the School Nutrition Specialist (SNS) credential from the School Nutrition Association and brings over 11 years of experience working with USDA Child Nutrition Programs.
Andrea Nannery, RDN, SNS
Virginia Department of Education, Office of School and Community Nutrition Programs
School Nutrition Programs Coordinator
Andrea Nannery, RDN, SNS, serves as the School Nutrition Programs Coordinator for the Virginia Department of Education’s Office of School and Community Nutrition Programs. In this role, she oversees the administration of the National School Lunch Program, School Breakfast Program, Afterschool Snack Program, and the Seamless Summer Option across the Commonwealth. A registered dietitian and mom of three, Andrea is passionate about helping children establish healthy eating habits that set the foundation for a lifetime of wellness. She holds the School Nutrition Specialist (SNS) credential from the School Nutrition Association and brings over 11 years of experience working with USDA Child Nutrition Programs.
Something's Missing from your Menu: Food Allergy Management Plan
Callie Nickles, MPH, RDN
Prince William County Schools
Administrative Coordinator for Nutrition
Callie Nickles is the Administrative Coordinator for Nutrition at Prince William County Schools (PWCS). Prior to her current role, Callie worked with the Virginia Department of Education to provide technical assistance, training, and resources to school and child nutrition professionals throughout Virginia. Callie graduated from Samford University with a B.S. in Nutrition and Dietetics; she then completed the Master of Public Health and Registered Dietitian Training Program at UNC-Chapel Hill where she discovered her passion for child nutrition, nutrition policy, and public health program development and evaluation. Callie is deeply passionate about the child nutrition programs and is dedicated to increasing childhood access to nutritious foods. In her current role, Callie oversees menu and recipe development, dietary accommodations, nutrition education, and marketing and communications. Outside of work, she can frequently be found hiking in Shenandoah National Park with her dog, Bingo!
Callie Nickles, MPH, RDN
Prince William County Schools
Administrative Coordinator for Nutrition
Callie Nickles is the Administrative Coordinator for Nutrition at Prince William County Schools (PWCS). Prior to her current role, Callie worked with the Virginia Department of Education to provide technical assistance, training, and resources to school and child nutrition professionals throughout Virginia. Callie graduated from Samford University with a B.S. in Nutrition and Dietetics; she then completed the Master of Public Health and Registered Dietitian Training Program at UNC-Chapel Hill where she discovered her passion for child nutrition, nutrition policy, and public health program development and evaluation. Callie is deeply passionate about the child nutrition programs and is dedicated to increasing childhood access to nutritious foods. In her current role, Callie oversees menu and recipe development, dietary accommodations, nutrition education, and marketing and communications. Outside of work, she can frequently be found hiking in Shenandoah National Park with her dog, Bingo!
Rural Non-Congregate Mail Delivery: Panel Discussion
Maggie Parker, MSW
Virginia Department of Education, Office of School and Community Nutrition Programs
Community Nutrition Programs Coordinator
As the Child Nutrition Programs Coordinator for the Virginia Department of Education’s Office of School and Community Nutrition Programs, Maggie Parker leads the administration of the Summer Food Service Program and the At-Risk Afterschool Meals Program across the Commonwealth. Maggie’s career spans both state agencies and community organizations, giving her a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities in child nutrition. Her work is driven by a commitment to equity and a belief that access to nourishing meals year-round is essential for learning and growth. Maggie works closely with schools, community partners, and stakeholders to build strong networks that expand access to meals for children. She earned her Master of Social Work from Virginia Commonwealth University, specializing in Administration, Program Planning, and Policy Practice.
Maggie Parker, MSW
Virginia Department of Education, Office of School and Community Nutrition Programs
Community Nutrition Programs Coordinator
As the Child Nutrition Programs Coordinator for the Virginia Department of Education’s Office of School and Community Nutrition Programs, Maggie Parker leads the administration of the Summer Food Service Program and the At-Risk Afterschool Meals Program across the Commonwealth. Maggie’s career spans both state agencies and community organizations, giving her a unique perspective on the challenges and opportunities in child nutrition. Her work is driven by a commitment to equity and a belief that access to nourishing meals year-round is essential for learning and growth. Maggie works closely with schools, community partners, and stakeholders to build strong networks that expand access to meals for children. She earned her Master of Social Work from Virginia Commonwealth University, specializing in Administration, Program Planning, and Policy Practice.
Say it Better
Lasada Pippen
Motivational Speaker and Empowerment Coach
Lasada Pippen is a former computer engineer turned nationally acclaimed motivational speaker. A first-generation college graduate who rose from poverty to a STEM career, he now inspires audiences nationwide with humor, heart, and practical strategies for turning obstacles into opportunities.
Lasada Pippen
Motivational Speaker and Empowerment Coach
Lasada Pippen is a former computer engineer turned nationally acclaimed motivational speaker. A first-generation college graduate who rose from poverty to a STEM career, he now inspires audiences nationwide with humor, heart, and practical strategies for turning obstacles into opportunities.
Pre-Conference Session: From Concept to Cafeteria: Developing Standardized Recipes for Program Success
Amy Richardson
Virginia Department of Education, Office of School and Community Nutrition Programs
Culinary Specialist
Amy Richardson is the Culinary Training Specialist for the Virginia Department of Education, Office of School and Community Nutrition Programs. She leads the Recipe Development Team and supports divisions in creating standardized recipes, meeting nutrition guidelines and developing cycle menus that are both efficient for staff and delicious for students.
Amy Richardson
Virginia Department of Education, Office of School and Community Nutrition Programs
Culinary Specialist
Amy Richardson is the Culinary Training Specialist for the Virginia Department of Education, Office of School and Community Nutrition Programs. She leads the Recipe Development Team and supports divisions in creating standardized recipes, meeting nutrition guidelines and developing cycle menus that are both efficient for staff and delicious for students.
Rural Non-Congregate Mail Delivery: Panel Discussion
Carey Sealy
Fredericksburg Regional Food Bank
Director of Distribution Services
Currently the Director of Distribution Services at the Fredericksburg Regional Food Bank, Carey joined the food bank in May of 2017. She is responsible for providing strategic and daily direction to activities supporting the distribution of food commodities and other goods through the acquisition of goods for distribution, warehousing activities, product movement logistics, and the execution of internal distribution and food access programs. Formerly, Carey has served as the Inventory & Food Sourcing Manager and Volunteer & Event Coordinator at the food bank.
Prior to joining the food bank, Carey worked for many years in the hospitality and restaurant industry. She worked as a corporate trainer and Director of Food & Beverage at Hilton Worldwide.
Carey enjoys traveling with her adult children. She lives in a multigenerational home and loves spending time with her family and her aging pit bull, Peyton!
Carey Sealy
Fredericksburg Regional Food Bank
Director of Distribution Services
Currently the Director of Distribution Services at the Fredericksburg Regional Food Bank, Carey joined the food bank in May of 2017. She is responsible for providing strategic and daily direction to activities supporting the distribution of food commodities and other goods through the acquisition of goods for distribution, warehousing activities, product movement logistics, and the execution of internal distribution and food access programs. Formerly, Carey has served as the Inventory & Food Sourcing Manager and Volunteer & Event Coordinator at the food bank.
Prior to joining the food bank, Carey worked for many years in the hospitality and restaurant industry. She worked as a corporate trainer and Director of Food & Beverage at Hilton Worldwide.
Carey enjoys traveling with her adult children. She lives in a multigenerational home and loves spending time with her family and her aging pit bull, Peyton!
Summer Skillman
Virginia Department of Education, Office of School and Community Nutrition Programs
Training and Initiatives Coordinator
Summer Skillman is a public servant and leader with expertise in training, technical assistance, and communications in child nutrition. A U.S. Navy veteran, she later served at USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service, where she supported the Patrick Leahy Farm to School Program and led data-driven program integrity and innovation efforts focused on clear data storytelling and transparency. She currently serves as Training and Initiatives Coordinator at the Virginia Department of Education, supporting educators and building programs that strengthen school nutrition and communities across the Commonwealth.
Virginia Department of Education, Office of School and Community Nutrition Programs
Training and Initiatives Coordinator
Summer Skillman is a public servant and leader with expertise in training, technical assistance, and communications in child nutrition. A U.S. Navy veteran, she later served at USDA’s Food and Nutrition Service, where she supported the Patrick Leahy Farm to School Program and led data-driven program integrity and innovation efforts focused on clear data storytelling and transparency. She currently serves as Training and Initiatives Coordinator at the Virginia Department of Education, supporting educators and building programs that strengthen school nutrition and communities across the Commonwealth.
