More Information about our Scholarships
Fall Workshop Scholarships
The Virtual Fall Workshop Scholarship provides WSNA members with the opportunity to participate in professional learning from wherever they are. Accessible, flexible education is key to supporting a diverse and growing child nutrition workforce, and this scholarship helps ensure that all members have the chance to engage, connect, and develop their skills. Recipients will receive registration to the virtual workshop, removing financial barriers to meaningful professional development. Scholarship applications open in the early Fall.
Spring Workshop Scholarships
The Spring Workshop Scholarship opens the door for WSNA members to engage in focused, hands-on learning at the WSNA Spring Workshop. Continued education and peer connection are vital to a thriving child nutrition community, and this scholarship ensures that financial constraints don't stand in the way of professional growth. Up to three scholarships will be awarded, each covering the cost of workshop registration. Scholarship applications open in the late Winter.
Workforce Development Scholarship
The Workforce Development Scholarship is designed to empower WSNA members by providing access to the WSNA Annual Conference. A strong child nutrition workforce begins with opportunities for meaningful connection, learning, and growth — and this scholarship helps remove financial barriers that might otherwise prevent dedicated professionals from participating. Up to three scholarships will be awarded, each covering conference registration and three nights of hotel accommodations. Scholarship applications open in the Spring.
New Directors Scholarship
This scholarship supports WSNA members in attending the WSNA Annual Conference, with the goal of promoting professional development — particularly for newer directors in the field. Investing in emerging leaders helps strengthen the child nutrition industry by building a knowledgeable, well-connected workforce equipped to meet the evolving needs of students and school communities. One scholarship will be awarded, covering conference registration and three nights of hotel accommodations, with priority given to directors who have not previously attended the WSNA Annual Conference or have been a Child Nutrition Director for fewer than 10 years. Scholarship applications open in the Spring.
Ruth Ann Bennett Scholarship
Ruth Ann Bennett was a dedicated WSNA member and leader from 1978-1997. She wanted every Child Nutrition Program in the state to be successful. She was committed to ensuring that WSNA members were offered valuable continuing education opportunities through workshops and conferences. This scholarship was set up in her name in 1997 when she retired. The purpose is to provide members with financial assistance to attend WSNA sponsored education sessions. Unfortunately, Ruth Ann passed away in 2020. Her impact, however, continues through this continuing education scholarship opportunity. Scholarship applications open in the Spring.
WSNA Apple Awards
Golden Apple Award
A certified WSNA member employed in a school district’s meal program (all categories of employees except Directors.) The candidate demonstrates outstanding leadership and professionalism. A Golden Apples award candidate is a role model and is an inspiration to others in the school food service program, local chapter, or the state association.
Apple Blossom Award
A WSNA member who has been employed for 5 years or less in a school district’s meal program (all categories of employees except Directors.) The candidate demonstrates leadership, enthusiasm, and dedication to the school meals program. An Apple Blossom Award candidate is someone who has made a marked difference in the short time they have been involved in the school meal program, local chapter, or the state association and is a source of inspiration to others.
Industry Award
Any person working in industry who impacts school meals programs. The candidate demonstrates outstanding leadership qualities and supports child nutrition programs above and beyond the normal duties of their position.
SNA Awards and Scholarships Available
The School Nutrition Association (SNA) Awards program recognizes the outstanding and important work of SNA members and state affiliates. Members and state associations' achievements are highlighted annually. To learn more about the awards and who is eligible, click the button below.
