1.Encourage and promote the maintenance and improvement of the health and nutrition of children by supporting the implementation of nutritionally adequate, educationally sound, financially accountable, nonprofit school food and nutrition programs.
2.Work for the highest standards for school food and nutrition programs with an emphasis on nutritionally sound meals which are acceptable to children.
3.Encourage and promote united efforts between school personnel and the general public to assure every child an opportunity to receive the benefits of school food and nutrition programs which incorporate nutrition education.
4.Encourage and develop the highest standards and provide appropriate education programs for professional growth of the school food and nutrition personnel.
5.Promote legislation and research designed to foster adequate school nutrition programs.
6.Assist in making the school nutrition program a laboratory for nutrition education and other related education activities.
Vision
Preparing children for a lifetime of learning and good health.
Mission
To advance the availability, quality, and acceptance of school nutrition programs as an integral part of education.
Code of Ethics
Members of the Georgia School Nutrition Association are pledged to the improvement of school, community and national health through well directed quality food and nutrition programs.
Worthy members fulfill an obligation to the Association, their school, their community, themselves, and to related professional groups when they accept these responsibilities.
To guide their personal conduct by the Golden Rule.
To uphold the ethical standards by which they and their profession are judged.
To place service for the good of others above personal gain.
To seek newer knowledge in their professional work and apply this knowledge and skill by serving in community activities.
To cooperate with related professional groups in achieving common goals
To take an interest in pertinent legislation and promote public support which will improve the status of school food service personnel.
Smiles, leadership, and laughter were at the center of every moment President Kim Kiker shared with members at the GSNA Conference. From inspiring speeches to fun-filled events, Kim showed what it means to lead with both strength and warmth. Her leadership energized everyone around her. We look forward to building on the momentum she helped create!
GSNF GOLF TOURNAMENT: A “CADDYSHACK” CLASSIC FOR A GREAT CAUSE
It was all laughs, golf, and giving back at the GSNF Golf Tournament! With a fun Caddyshack theme and 18 teams hitting the course, the day was packed with friendly competition all to support scholarships and educational events for GSNA members.
A huge thank you to Warren Goldsmith, Premier Foodservice, Cathy Johnson, Foundation Chair, and Scott Richardson, Dawson County
SNP Director, for helping bring the tournament to life. Thanks to their leadership — and all the players who came out we’re making a big difference for future leaders!
INDUSTRY EXHIBITS BRING INNOVATION & CONNECTION TO THE GSNA CONFERENCE
The GSNA Industry Exhibits were once again a highlight of the Annual Conference, bringing together school nutrition professionals and industry partners for an exciting showcase of innovation, collaboration, and new ideas. With rows of vibrant booths, attendees had the chance to sample the latest food products, explore cutting-edge equipment, and connect with the companies that support our mission.
From new menu solutions to smarter kitchen tools, the exhibit floor buzzed with energy as vendors shared their newest offerings and answered questions from curious members. The event offered a valuable opportunity to build relationships, discover resources, and gather ideas to take back to local programs.
A huge thank you to all of our industry partners for their continued support and dedication to school nutrition. Your presence helps power the success of GSNA and the future of our schools!
ANNUAL CONFERENCE
General Session Keynote: Rennie Curran Ignites Passion and Purpose
The GSNA Annual Conference closed on a powerful note with an unforgettable keynote address by Rennie Curran. Speaking on the theme "When Passion Meets Purpose," Rennie inspired and energized the entire audience, leaving us all fired up and ready to lead with greater vision and determination.
Drawing from his experiences as a former professional athlete, entrepreneur, and leadership coach, Rennie challenged attendees to align their personal passions with their professional purpose. His message was both motivating and practical, reminding us that true leadership starts from within.
A heartfelt thank you to Atlantic Custom Fabricators, Ingenious Culinary Concepts, and Gold Creek Foods for sponsoring this incredible closing session. Thanks to their support, we ended the conference feeling empowered, connected, and ready to make a difference!
General Session Keynote: Lisa Drake Shares Her Powerful Story
At the GSNA Annual Conference, attendees were deeply moved by General Session speaker, Lisa Drake of Capturing Kids’ Hearts. In a raw and inspiring talk, Lisa shared her personal journey, illustrating how overcoming adversity shaped her into the leader she is today. Her story was one of resilience, courage, and the power of connection a message that resonated with everyone in the room.
Lisa’s experience emphasized the importance of building meaningful relationships and fostering an environment where every individual feels valued. Her words reminded us all that true leadership comes from understanding and empathy, and she encouraged each of us to bring these values into our own work and lives.
A heartfelt thank you to Lisa for sharing her life-changing story with us and to Capturing Kids’ Hearts for their continued dedication to empowering leaders everywhere.
EDUCATION SESSIONS EMPOWER
GSNA CONFERENCE ATTENDEES
The GSNA Annual Conference wasn’t just about fun and networking — it was also packed with valuable education sessions designed to empower and inspire school nutrition professionals at every level.
Attendees had the opportunity to explore a wide range of topics, from leadership development and teamwork strategies to the latest in culinary trends, nutrition standards, and program innovations. Sessions were led by expert speakers who provided fresh insights, practical tools, and real-world solutions that attendees could take back to their districts and put into action right away.
Whether you were a first-time attendee or a long-time GSNA member, the education sessions delivered something for everyone.
GSNA LEGISLATIVE ADVOCACY: FROM ATLANTA TO WASHINGTON D.C.
GSNA members gathered in Atlanta for the annual Georgia Legislative Advocacy Conference, a powerful event focused on advancing school nutrition through state-level legislative action. A highlight of the conference was the trip to the Georgia State Capitol, where GSNA members met with legislators face-to-face to share stories, discuss challenges, and advocate for the needs of students and nutrition programs across the state.
In addition to the state event, GSNA proudly sent representatives to the SNA National Legislative Action Conference (LAC) in Washington, D.C., where they joined school nutrition leaders from across the country. Together, they met with members of Congress to champion national policies that support healthy school meals and strengthen child nutrition programs.
PLAN OF ACTION SCROLL
The Scroll Award reflects this year’s theme, “We Are All in This Together,” and aims to help members connect and engage more with GSNA events and activities.
The Scroll is organized into four focus areas: Career Development & Growth, Voice of School Nutrition, Stakeholder Community, and Thriving Organization. Each area includes activities aligned with the State Strategic Goals and tailored to local chapter and district needs.
Chapters and districts can earn Gold, Silver, or Bronze scrolls based on the number of activities completed, following the outlined documentation requirements.
What Scroll will your Association receive next year?
SUMTER COUNTY SILVER BIBB COUNTY GOLD CLAYTON COUNTY GOLD THOMASTON UPSON GOLD
ANNETTE BOMAR HOPGOOD CHAPTER GOLD
BUTTS COUNTY GOLD GRIFFIN SPALDING GOLD BREMEN CITY GOLD
ROCKDALE
DISTRICT
8TH
DISTRICT
2025-2026 OFFICER INSTALLATION SERVICE
At the GSNA Annual Conference, a special Leadership Officer Installation Service was held to celebrate and recognize the incoming leadership team. This meaningful ceremony highlighted the important role our officers play in guiding the association and inspiring its members.
With the theme of service and unity at the forefront, each newly elected officer pledged to lead with integrity, vision, and a commitment to excellence. The ceremony served not only as a formal installation but also as a reminder that leadership is about collaboration, mentorship, and supporting the success of every GSNA member.
As the officers took their oaths, members gathered to show their support and appreciation, reinforcing the message that “We Are All in This Together.”The service set a tone of excitement and purpose for the year ahead, with the new leadership team ready to build on GSNA’s strong foundation and lead the association to even greater achievements.
Special “Thank You” to Past President Cindy Ham, who led the installation service.
2025-2026 GSNA Executive Committee
President April Cox
President-Elect Dawn Lewis
Secretary Juana Moore
Treasurer Anna Dilcher
System Level Chair Ashley Whitener
School Level Chair Kathy Brown
Chair of District Presidents Jessica Peaden
LEADERSHIP ACADEMY GRADUATION CELEBRATES THE CLASS OF 2024–2025
At the GSNA Annual Conference, we proudly celebrated the graduation of the 2024–2025 Leadership Academy participants. This year’s program was especially exciting, as the overwhelming interest led to the formation of two groups — a North group and a South group — to better serve all the candidates eager to develop their leadership skills.
Throughout the year, participants engaged in specialized training, workshops, and hands-on experiences focused on personal leadership growth, communication, and professional development within school nutrition. The Leadership Academy equipped them with the tools needed to lead with confidence and make a lasting impact on their local chapters, districts, and the GSNA community as a whole.
During the graduation ceremony, participants were recognized for their dedication, hard work, and commitment to advancing both their own leadership journeys and the mission of GSNA. As these new leaders step forward, they represent the bright future of our association and the spirit of "We Are All in This Together."
LEADERSHIP ACADEMY
LEADERSHIP ACADEMY
CULINARY ARTS CONTEST WINNERS
The GSNA Annual Conference proudly celebrated the talented winners of this year’s TOGETHER Culinary Arts Contest. These outstanding school nutrition professionals showcased their creativity, skill, and passion for crafting delicious, nutritious meals. Congratulations to all the winners — your hard work and dedication help elevate school nutrition programs across Georgia!
1 Marian Clark st Muscogee County 2 Angie Tanner Union County nd
Julia Thomas Douglas County rd David Seagle accepting
Carla Paulino Whitfield County
Angela Giddings Griffin Spalding
Corey Burton accepting
Brittany Pennington
Glynn County
Brittany McCarty
Ware County
Courtney Barrett Hall County
Carroll County
GSNA AWARDS
Director of the Year
Donna Hendley
Lowndes County SNP
Manager of the Year
Joyce Lane Camden County
Manager of the Year 2nd Place
DorisCain
Glynn County
(Shelley Daniel accepting award)
Manager of the Year
3rd Place
Felecia Thomas Sumter County
Naomi J. Tolbert Central Office Support Award
Patti LaNeve
Glynn County
2nd Place
Naomi J. Tolbert Central Office Support Award
Paula Vaughan Forsyth County
3rd Place
Naomi J. Tolbert Central Office Support Award
Marlene Bryant
Camden County
2025 GSNA Nutrition Advisory Council of the Year
Risley Middle NAC
Glynn County
Beyond the Plate Winner
Joyce Lane Camden County
Sponsor: The Hansen Group
Ann C. Smith Award
Paige H. Nostrant (accepted by Ellen Steinberg)
GSNA TAILGATE PARTY AT ANNUAL CONFERENCE: A NIGHT TO REMEMBER
GSNA members sure know how to have a great time! What better way to celebrate than with a Tailgate Party in Athens? On Friday evening, members came together wearing their favorite team jerseys, ready to dance, eat, and enjoy each other's company at the GSNA Tailgate Party, proudly sponsored by Cafeterias Redefined.
The evening was filled with laughter, great food, and lively music. Thanks to CGA and Cold Sell Coolers, three fantastic food trucks served up delicious eats that kept everyone coming back for more. DJ Big Twin, also known as Mr. Fredrick Brown, kept the energy high with an incredible playlist that had everyone dancing the night away.
Along with dancing, attendees enjoyed a variety of fun activities like corn hole, basketball, and simply relaxing with friends. It was truly a night full of memories, camaraderie, and classic GSNA fun!
WASHINGTON WILKES HIGH SCHOOL RECEIVES SCHOOL GARDEN GRANT
Washington Wilkes Comprehensive High School is excited about the School Garden Grant, a key step toward launching a hands-on garden program that will enrich student learning and strengthen community engagement. The grant’s role is to fund planting materials, tools, curriculum, and essential resources.
With a commitment to submitting detailed timelines - and before-and-after harvest photos, the school is eager to demonstrate its accountability and success. This garden initiative will not only improve nutrition and science education but also help students build critical life skills — planting seeds for a healthier, more engaged future.
