08/05/2025
They call themselves Lunch Ladies and Lunch Lads -
but what I saw was a room full of purpose-driven professionals.
I had the privilege of speaking for the School Nutrition Association, and it meant more to me than they may ever know.
Because when my daughter Merritt was diagnosed with a rare metabolic condition, I became a student of nutrition. I learned how our bodies use food, how they metabolize it and just how critical it is for children to have access to real, nourishing meals.
It was never “just lunch” for us.
These incredible school nutrition professionals are fueling learning, energy, growth, connections, and as one participant told me - manners!
In my keynote, we talked about rediscovering purpose.
And I reminded them:
You’re not just serving lunch.
You’re serving wellness, connections, empathy, support and enriching lives.
And I meant every word.
To all the Lunch Ladies and Lunch Lads who show up every day with care and commitment: Thank you for what you do. It matters. 🍎
And thank you to the amazing leaders of the association: Malone Neumann Lexvold Margaret Winchell Glen Ritter, SNS
