Jennifer Buchanan, School Nutrition Director of Hamblen County Schools, is the second Hamblen County Schools nutrition employee being recognized in consecutive years by national officials.

The national, non-profit School Nutrition Association has named Buchanan, the Southeast region Director of the Year.

This makes the second Hamblen County Schools nutrition employee recognized for this award in consecutive years.

In 2025, Evelyn Marie Kyle won the same award last year and was presented her award in San Antonio, Texas last summer.

Buchanan’s accomplishments will be highlighted in SN Magazine, on schoolnutrition.org, and at SNA’s Annual National Conference to be held in July in Charlotte, North Carolina.

This award recognizes the extraordinary contributions of directors who manage effective school meal programs, providing healthy, appetizing meals to students.

Excellence in Program Management

Buchanan has significantly strengthened the financial health of the Hamblen County nutrition program by implementing disciplined budgeting practices, tighter inventory controls, and strategic purchasing decisions. By monitoring student meal participation trends and aligning production with student demand, Buchanan has increased student satisfaction and boosted meal participation while reducing food waste. Her efforts have enabled reinvestment into equipment upgrades and menu improvements to modernize school menus while maintaining compliance with federal nutrition standards.

Regarding the impact of her work, Buchanan stated: “We understand that our program plays a role in academic success and student well-being and we approach our work with that purpose in mind,” she said. “We have a clear sense of pride and mutual support that translates into better service for the students we serve.”

Leadership and Mentorship

Beyond operations, Buchanan prioritizes staff development by implementing regular, hands-on training sessions covering topics including food safety, standardized recipes, and customer service.

Her training has improved confidence, consistency, and compliance across district kitchens.

She provides daily, onthe- job coaching and works side-by-side with staff during meal service to address challenges in real time and model best practices in organization and team communication.

“I am extremely proud of Ms. Buchanan and her team and thrilled that she is garnering this recognition,” noted Superintendent of Schools, Arnold W. Bunch, Jr. “Without the herculean efforts of our school nutrition program many of our students would be hungry, and they can’t learn if they aren’t properly nourished. “This recognition is for Jennifer, but she would be the first to say that it is only possible because of the hard, dedicated work of the entire school nutrition team.”

Professional Commitment and Recognition

Buchanan regularly attends SNA’s state and national conferences to stay current on best practices and regulations. She has also served on her state chapter’s steering committee, contributing to strategic planning and professional development initiatives.

“This award is a reflection of our entire program and the success we’ve achieved would not be possible without the dedication of our entire staff who go above and beyond to support the students every day,” Buchanan added.