Barbara Mechura, a retired school nutrition director turned AFHK Grant Program Director, brings over 30 years of experience in both rural and metro districts. Her focus is on transforming school cafeterias with fresh, healthy ingredients and farm-to-table partnerships, fostering excitement in kids for nutritious, veggie-centric meals. She's successfully revamped school kitchens, turning them into havens for scratch-cooked, fresh foods. Her expertise extends to training staff as engaged food coaches.
CAREER HIGHLIGHTS:
- National Farm to School Network Technical Assistance Provider
- Winner of 20+ grants
- Led 16 kitchen design and remodel projects; numerous kitchen enhancements
- Mentor to assistant directors, now successful nutrition leaders in various states
- Presenter at School Nutrition Association and State Affiliate conferences
- Over a decade designing educational programs for the Minnesota School Business Officials Association.