Welcome to Season 4, Episode 7
Milk has been a staple on school lunch trays for generations. In this episode of “School Food for Thought: The Truth Behind School Meals,” we unpack the nutritional benefits of milk, how it travels from local farms to cafeterias, and the different options schools provide, including lactose-free choices.
Our guests also explore how schools are getting creative in promoting milk, clearing up common misconceptions about dairy and following USDA standards to make sure every carton meets the highest quality. Along the way, we highlight the role of parents and families in shaping the conversation around what kids drink at school.
At its core, this episode is about connection—between farms and schools, nutrition professionals and families and the shared goal of giving kids safe, balanced meals that fuel their growth and learning.
Meet Our Guests
Katie Bambacht – Vice President of Nutrition Affairs for National Dairy Council
Katie Bambacht is the Vice President of Nutrition Affairs at National Dairy Council, where she brings nearly two decades of expertise in child nutrition programs. A registered dietitian and credentialed school nutrition specialist, Katie has been part of the dairy community since 2016, serving as a go-to resource on USDA feeding programs, school nutrition, and nutrition security. Katie is passionate about helping schools develop meal programs that support student health and academic success.
Audrey Donahoe, Owner Atrass Farms, Dairy Farmer from New York
Audrey Donahoe is a fifth-generation dairy farmer from Clayville, NY. Audrey and her husband Jeff own and operate ATRASS Farms, where they milk Registered Holsteins and Brown Swiss. Audrey serves as Chairwoman of National Dairy Council and works with several dairy promotion boards, sharing her passion and enthusiasm for dairy and its role in communities.
Lindsey Palmer, VP, Nutrition and Industry Relations, Chartwell K12
Lindsey Palmer is the Vice President of Nutrition and Industry Relations for Chartwells K12, where she helps oversee 2 million meals served daily across more than 700 school districts in 35 states. With over 15 years of experience in child nutrition and school food service, she is passionate about ensuring every student has the nourishment they need to be ready to learn and succeed. Previously, Lindsey served as Director of Nutrition Programs for the Office of the State Superintendent of Education (OSSE) in Washington, D.C., overseeing school meals, child care, and summer feeding programs. She holds degrees in Nutrition and Dietetics from the University of Delaware, a Master of Science from St. Elizabeth University, and an MBA.
