Cathy Johnson

School Nutrition Foundation Member Award-LAC 2026

Years in School Nutrition: 21 years

Students Served: 28,500

School Nutrition Association returning attendee scholarship

“What I love most about my job as a School Nutrition Director is knowing that the work we do directly impacts students’ ability to learn, grow, and thrive. Providing healthy, appealing meals isn’t just food service, it’s part of supporting the whole child. I love being able to improve access to nutritious choices, lead a team that cares deeply about kids, and create programs that make school a welcoming place for every student. There’s nothing more rewarding than seeing students enjoy our meals and knowing we’re helping set them up for success.’

Why School Nutrition?

As a dedicated school nutrition leader, I am deeply committed to ensuring that every child has access to nourishing meals that support their learning, health, and overall wellbeing. My career has been shaped by a passion for service, equity, and continuous improvement, and I strive every day to strengthen the programs that so many students depend on. My goals include growing as an advocate, expanding my understanding of policy, and amplifying the voices of children and nutrition professionals in my district and across the state. This scholarship was incredibly important to me because it opened the door to an experience that might not have been possible otherwise. It allowed me to grow as an advocate, learn more about the legislative process, and gain confidence in sharing the needs and successes of the students and staff I serve. The conference reinforced my goals of continuing to advocate for equitable access to healthy school meals, supporting my team’s professional growth, and contributing more intentionally to SNA’s mission at the local and state levels.

In many ways, LAC renewed my sense of purpose. I returned home more informed, more empowered, and more motivated to ensure that our programs and our students have strong representation at every level of decisionmaking.”

Bringing It Back to My District

One key takeaway from LAC that will benefit both me and my team is the understanding that advocacy doesn’t require a title, just a voice and a willingness to speak up. Hearing how individual stories, data, and experiences come together to shape national policy reminded me that every member of our school nutrition team plays a part in telling the story of the work we do. This insight will help me empower my staff to recognize their own value in the advocacy process. Whether it’s sharing student success stories, highlighting operational challenges, or simply explaining what a day in the cafeteria looks like, their perspectives matter. Bringing this mindset back to my district will strengthen our ability to communicate with stakeholders, build community support, and contribute more effectively to the larger movement to protect and advance school meal programs.

The Impact of This Scholarship

SNF’s Conference Scholarship had a truly meaningful impact on me both professionally and personally. It allowed me to build valuable connections with fellow nutrition leaders, deepen my knowledge through highquality education sessions, and feel inspired by the collective advocacy efforts happening nationwide. The opportunity strengthened my confidence, broadened my perspective, and renewed my passion for serving students and supporting my team.