During the School Nutrition Association’s Legislative Action Conference (LAC), the School Nutrition Foundation’s Mix & Mingle was a true highlight, an energizing celebration of community, generosity and shared purpose. Set against the excitement of LAC, the evening brought together school nutrition leaders, advocates and industry partners for a night filled with conversation, connection and a collective commitment to strengthening school nutrition programs nationwide.
The room buzzed with enthusiasm as colleagues reconnected, new partnerships formed and supporters came together around a mission that matters. Mix & Mingle was a joyful reminder that when this community gathers, meaningful impact follows.
Celebrating the Impact of Your Support
Thanks to the generosity of attendees and sponsors, Mix & Mingle raised critical funds that directly advance the School Nutrition Foundation’s mission. Every contribution helps power opportunities that uplift and support school nutrition professionals across the country, including:
- Scholarships that expand access to professional growth and leadership development
- Professional development resources that strengthen local school nutrition operations
- Leadership and advocacy opportunities that elevate practitioner voices from cafeterias to Capitol Hill
Because of this support, the Foundation continues to invest in the people who make school meals possible every single day, turning generosity into tangible, lasting impact.
Spotlighting Leaders Who Inspire
A special highlight of the evening was celebrating LAC26 scholarship recipients, dedicated leaders whose passion and lived experience are shaping the future of school nutrition.
This moment of recognition was both inspiring and affirming, reminding everyone in the room that investments made through Mix & Mingle directly support real professionals, real programs and real communities.
A Perfect Complement to LAC
Mix & Mingle is just one part of the broader LAC experience, which brings school nutrition professionals together to advocate for policies that support students, families and the programs that serve them. The evening complemented the week’s advocacy efforts by grounding them in community, reminding attendees that behind every conversation on Capitol Hill are real children, real families and real professionals committed to making a difference.
Together, LAC and Mix & Mingle highlight the power of coming together: to learn, to advocate and to invest in the future of school nutrition.
With Gratitude to Our Sponsors
This celebration would not have been possible without the generous partners who helped bring the evening to life and who share a deep belief in the power of school meals and the professionals who lead this work every day.
Thank you to our sponsors for helping make Mix & Mingle at LAC26 a standout celebration of generosity, partnership and impact.
Impact Partner
No Kid Hungry by Share Our Strength
Partners in Excellence
Partners in Success
Supporting Partner
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