AWARDS & SCHOLARSHIPS
HONORING OUR MOMENTUM: Celebrating Excellence in a New Era of School Nutrition
BY CASSIE MILLER-LEONE Category Director K-12 A.J. Letizio Sales & Marketing, Inc.
There’s never been a more exciting time to be part of New York’s school nutrition community! With universal meals now available statewide, we’re feeding more students than ever before and that’s something to be proud of. Every breakfast and lunch served means one more student that is ready to learn, grow, and succeed. All across the state, I’m inspired by the creativity and heart I see each day. Directors are finding new ways to boost participation and streamline service, industry partners are stepping up with innovative products that meet evolving needs, and cafeteria teams are going above and beyond to make mealtime something students look forward to. The energy and collaboration right now are incredible, and it truly feels like we’re entering a new era for school meals in New York. As Chair of the Awards & Scholarships Committee, I’m reminded how important it is to pause and celebrate these efforts. Recognition isn’t just about plaques or titles. It’s about lifting each other up, sharing successes, and shining a light on the people who make a difference. When I received the Industry Member of the Year Award a few years ago, it was incredibly meaningful to me. It reminded me that the work we all do, often behind the scenes, truly matters and makes an impact. That feeling of appreciation and connection is something I hope many others get to experience, too. With our new spring conference schedule on the horizon, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the amazing things happening in every district across the state and to recognize the people making it happen. Together, let’s keep the momentum going and continue celebrating the excellence that makes New York’s school nutrition community truly special! ■
AWARDS AND SCHOLARSHIPS ARE NOW OPEN!
All applications are due by March 1st – don’t miss this opportunity to recognize colleagues or receive support for your professional growth.
LEARN MORE, APPLY HERE!
WINTER 2026 AWARDS & SCHOLARSHIPS COMMITTEE CHAIR Cassie is a K-12 foodservice specialist and account manager with a background in sales and hospitality. Since 2016, she’s been dedicated to supporting school nutrition. An active NYSNA member, she chairs the 2023 Awards and Scholarships Committee and won the 2021 Jeff Siegel Award. Based in NY, Cassie now oversees K-12 initiatives from Maine to Virginia as K-12 Category Director at AJ Letizio. FreshBites Cassie Miller-Leone
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