Fulton Schools Nutrition Director Earns Leadership Award

FULTON COUNTY, GA — Alyssia Wright, the Fulton County School System's executive director of School Nutrition, is the recipient of the 2019 Foodservice Achievement Management Excellence Silver Leadership Award.

This national award is presented to a director who "demonstrates outstanding leadership, dedication, fiscal achievement, and innovation in menuing and merchandising," the school system said.

For 30 years the FAME Awards have honored school nutrition professionals who raise industry standards within their school districts and communities. Wright was honored earlier this month at the 2019 FAME Awards ceremony as part of the School Nutrition Association’s 2019 School Nutrition Industry Conference in Austin.

“Being selected for the Silver Leadership Award is such an extreme honor,” said Wright. “To be recognized for the accomplishments of what is done daily with passion and dedication is truly humbling. I believe I have the best team that is equally passionate and takes pride in bringing the best experience to our students every day.”

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FCS’ School Nutrition Program has remained financially stable during Wright’s six years as executive director. Through her vision and leadership, FCS entered into a joint Request for Proposal for grocery and produce contracts with a neighboring school district. Through that collaborative procurement process, FCS qualified for better pricing with increased volume of products and competition between distributors. Wright also increased the district’s enrollment in the Community Eligibility Provision, a non-pricing meal service option for schools and school districts in high poverty areas.

Wright’s colleagues have also applauded her management and communication style with Fulton County’s 760 food service employees. By emphasizing professional development, designating clear lines of communication and feedback, and the establishment of key performance indicators, Wright ensures uniformity in assessing employees and the efficiency of school nutrition management.

Wright is a member of the national SNA organization as well as state and local SNA chapters. During the summer, she was selected to co-present at one of SNA’s Annual National Conference education sessions, which was named a “Best of #ANC2018” presentation, and selected for SNA’s featured Webinar Wednesday.

Image via Fulton County School System