Get to know the candidates running for the 2025 SNA-VA Executive Board. Those elected will begin their terms of service on August 1, 2026. We extend our gratitude to all who stepped forward to volunteer, run, and serve our association.
Bruce Davis
Running For: President
School District: Prince Edward County
Years in School Nutrition: 18 years
What do you love about school nutrition?
I am deeply passionate about child nutrition because it empowers me to make a meaningful difference in children’s lives by nurturing healthy eating habits while maintaining a steady work‑life balance—a rhythm that aligns beautifully with elementary and secondary school calendars. With my culinary arts degree, I am excited to create creative, nutritious, and appealing menus that bring joy to children’s plates and introduce them to diverse, wholesome foods. I find profound fulfillment in witnessing the gratitude from students, families, and the community, knowing my efforts contribute to building a positive school culture that enhances both student health and academic performance.
How do you wish to serve the members of SNA-VA in this position?
In this position, I would wholeheartedly champion the mission and vision of SNA‑VA—promoting quality school nutrition programs, offering educational opportunities, and advocating on regulatory and legislative issues—with the goal of elevating school nutrition into a fully recognized and respected profession in Virginia. I would ensure that every hardworking member has access to the tools and knowledge they need—from menu development training and CEU resources to state‑level advocacy briefings—so they can confidently and creatively feed our children each day. I would also secure a seat at the table when regulations and decisions affecting our work and students are made, amplifying our collective expertise and voice. Building on the strong foundation SNA‑VA has cultivated, I am committed to sustaining our momentum, driving continuous improvement, and advancing our visibility as the professional voice of school nutrition in Virginia.
Casey Dickinson
Running For: Education Chair
School District: Chesterfield County Public Schools
Years in School Nutrition: 13 years (Child Nutrition), 9 years (School Nutrition)
What do you love about school nutrition?
I love school nutrition because all kids deserve access to real, healthy food; it’s foundational, not optional. And the people who do this work? They’re some of the most hardworking, compassionate humans I’ve ever known.
How do you wish to serve the members of SNA-VA in this position?
If elected, I’ll be wrapping up my time as President, but I’m not done serving. As Education Chair, I want to keep building practical, high-impact trainings and tools that make our members’ jobs easier and their impact even stronger. When we grow our people, we grow our potential.
Kelly Shomo
Running For: PP&L Chair
School District: Waynesboro Public Schools
Years in School Nutrition: 13 years
What do you love about school nutrition?
School nutrition is a combination of everything I am passionate about – nutrition, health/wellness, education, and culinary arts.
How do you wish to serve the members of SNA-VA in this position?
If I were to be elected to this position I would 1) commit to ensuring that Virginia’s school nutrition-related concerns are heard, 2) help SNA-VA members advocate for addressing those concerns, and 3) help keep SNA-VA members updated on policies that impact school nutrition programs.
Jennifer Williams
Running For: PP&L Chair
School District: Rockingham County Public Schools
Years in School Nutrition: 6 years
What do you love about school nutrition?
Many things, but I especially love seeing students try – and like! – new foods that they might have never tried if it were not for school nutrition. A healthy diet positively impacts students for life, and it is so rewarding for me to play a part in offering healthy meals and having such an impactful role in my community.
How do you wish to serve the members of SNA-VA in this position?
As PP&L Chair, I will serve members by working with the executive team and leading the PP&L committee to advocate for SNA-VA legislative priorities with policymakers, making sure school nutrition professionals have a voice in the decisions that impact not only our day to day lives, but the day to day lives of Virginia children. I also have previous experience from serving on the SNA-VA PP&L committee.
Bonnie Gassett
Running For: Regional 4 Director
School District: Virginia Beach
Years in School Nutrition: 12 years
What do you love about school nutrition?
I love school nutrition because I have a passion for helping children through food and it gives me the opportunity to make a difference in their lives.
How do you wish to serve the members of SNA-VA in this position?
As Regional Director, I wish to serve the members by being a strong voice, a reliable source and an advocate for the success of SNA. I want members to feel supported, heard and empowered, whether it’s by them navigating new regulations, seeking professional development or facing the day-to-day challenges of school nutrition.
Carlea Huff
Running For: Region 6 Directors
School District: Botetourt County
Years in School Nutrition: 5 years
What do you love about school nutrition?
I love being able to bring nutrition to the children and teach them about new foods.
How do you wish to serve the members of SNA-VA in this position?
I want to bring new information to my district along with new recipe ideas.
Maddie Phelps
Running For: Region 8 Director
School District: Lynchburg City Schools
Years in School Nutrition: 13 years
What do you love about school nutrition?
I love the ability to serve my community and do a job that makes a difference everyday!
How do you wish to serve the members of SNA-VA in this position?
I hope to help rebuild the chapters in the district and continue to spread the word about the wonderful benefits of school meals.
If you are interested in serving your community and leading Region 2 as Region 2 Director, please reach out to SNA-VA at info@sna-va.org.