Catch the Wave
- 5 hours ago
- 2 min read
Catch the Wave: SNAM Area 3’s 2026 Annual Workshop
Written by Bridgette Baldwin Port Huron Schools Assistant Director of Nutrition Services
On March 25th, nearly 500 school nutrition professionals from across Macomb and St Clair counties gathered for SNAM Area 3’s annual workshop, themed “Catch the Wave.” The event brought together staff, directors, and industry partners for an event focused on inspiration, collaboration, and professional growth.
The highlight of the workshop was our keynote presentation by MGM, Maureen G.
Mulvaney. MGM brought amazing energy to the event! Her message emphasized the importance of remembering the “why” behind our work. As she emphasized, school nutrition professionals play a vital role in the lives of students every day. That impact is amplified when teams come together; stronger and better as one.
MGM encouraged participants to embrace the magic of appreciation, reminding everyone that recognizing the efforts of others can transform workplace atmosphere. She also challenged all attendees to take action rather than remain passive in the face of change. “You cannot stop the wave,” she shared, “but you can decide how you show up when it hits.” Her call to action urged staff to ride the wave of change instead of resisting it, and to turn challenges into opportunities.
Another powerful takeaway centered on the ripple effect created in everyday interactions. Every moment in the cafeteria matters, and each connection with students has the potential to create a “Wow Wave”—a positive, lasting impression that extends far beyond a single meal service.
After the keynote, participants were divided into groups. The groups alternated between a vendor food show and a presentation given by Jacki Van Eerden and MJ McDonald. During the food show, they sampled new products, spoke with vendors, and gained fresh ideas to bring back to their districts. The “More Produce, Less Prep” presentation added an educational element about produce and some innovative ways we can order it prepped to speed up recipe production time.
Directors from each district contributed themed baskets for a raffle, with proceeds supporting Professional Development opportunities for members. The event concluded with dessert and numerous drawings for gift cards and prizes, adding fun and appreciation to the experience.
The success of the workshop was made possible through the generous support of event sponsors Van Eerden and the MOR Consortium, whose partnership helped create a memorable day for all involved.
SNAM Area 3’s “Catch the Wave” workshop served as a powerful reminder that while change is inevitable, how we respond to it defines our impact. School nutrition professionals continue to make a difference in the lives of the students they serve every day by choosing to ride the wave together!