Janet Jungnickel

School Nutrition Foundation Member Award-Professional Development 2026 

Years in School Nutrition: 23 years

Students Served: 470

Scholarship Award: Schwan’s Food Service Scholarship

“What I love most about my job is developing and supporting school nutrition leaders through professional development, helping them provide high-quality meals to students while operating efficient and financially sustainable school nutrition programs.”

Why School Nutrition?  

The school nutrition profession has provided many opportunities over the past twenty-three years, including working in five school districts in Southern California, managing two central kitchens, and expanding scratch-made menu offerings. As a member of the Georgia Department of Education School Nutrition Division, my goal is to coach and develop school nutrition leaders to operate successful, self-sustaining programs. I applied for this scholarship because it supports continued professional growth and aligns with my commitment to developing current and future school nutrition leaders.

Investing in My Future

This scholarship will strengthen my knowledge and leadership skills, enhancing my ability to support and develop school nutrition professionals across Georgia. My hope for the future is to continue mentoring school nutrition leaders and helping them operate successful, financially sustainable programs that provide high-quality meals to students.

School/University: University of Georgia

Program of Study: School Nutrition Directors Certification Program

Graduation Date: 2026