Tina Garland

School Nutrition Foundation Member Award-Professional Development 2026 

Years in School Nutrition: 10 years

Students Served: 6,000

Why School Nutrition?

I love the ins and outs of the financial aspect of school nutrition. Each year brings something new to learn and make our system stronger.

I am starting my 10th year as the bookkeeper for our school nutrition department. I have worked in finance my entire career, but I have to say that school nutrition has been, by far my most enjoyable experience. In my time here I have learned so much about working with different departments and vendors about how to make our nutrition department better. I have loved learning about our kitchens and how each one runs. I enjoy interacting with our students and our staff.

Investing in My Future

This scholarship is supporting my professional development goals by offsetting some of my tuition expense. I am very thankful for that. I would like to eventually move into an SF area consultant or Director’s position. The classes I have been taking revolve around public collaboration, HR, and administration. I have truly enjoyed them all, but an upcoming class I will be taking is finance & budgeting. I am really looking forward to taking this class. I will also begin working on my final degree project in the Spring semester, which I am excited about!

School/University: University of North Georgia

Program of Study: Master of Public Administration

Graduation Date: 2027