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Learning, Growth & Innovation
Register Now: Early Bird Ends April 30
The countdown is on for the 2026 TASN Annual Conference, and now is the time to make plans to join school nutrition professionals from across Texas in Grapevine, June 28-30.
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Each year, the conference brings together more than 1,000 professionals for two full days of learning, networking, idea-sharing and inspiration. You will gain practical strategies you can take back to your district, while connecting with peers who understand both the challenges and the importance of school nutrition work.
This year’s event is all about supporting YOU at every step of your school nutrition journey! You'll find sessions that cover everything from daily operations and compliance to innovation, culinary trends, and long-term growth strategies. You’ll also gain practical insights you can apply right away in your district. Plus, you'll get a chance to explore new products and services, make meaningful connections, and come home inspired with fresh ideas to better serve your students and school community.
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At a Glance
Early Bird Ends April 30
Register by April 30 to take advantage of early bird savings and secure your place at one of the largest school nutrition gatherings in Texas.
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Meet our Keynote Speakers
Michael Ivanov
When he was 18, Michael Ivanov dropped a college speech class after a difficult presentation and swore he would never speak on stage again. Today, he is a best-selling author and dynamic speaker who has impacted millions with his message of resilience.
Born in Kiev, Ukraine, and shaped by his family’s survival through the Siege of Leningrad and Dachau, Michael brings powerful storytelling that energizes audiences and inspires action.
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Lena Wilson
Lena Wilson serves as assistant commissioner for the Food and Nutrition Division at the Texas Department of Agriculture, overseeing compliance for 12 federal nutrition programs.
A registered dietitian with more than 20 years of experience, Lena offers valuable insight into school nutrition operations from both the state and local level, making her perspective especially relevant for Texas professionals.
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About Our Learning Sessions
This year’s conference will offer learning sessions for the full school nutrition team, with content designed for both decision-makers and non-decision-makers across a variety of roles and experience levels. Attendees can expect education across the USDA Professional Standards code areas, including the 1000 series (Nutrition), 2000 series (Operations), 3000 series (Administration), and 4000 series (Communications and Marketing). Sessions will also include learning opportunities from the Texas Department of Agriculture and select Spanish-language offerings. Topics are subject to slight change as the program is finalized, with more to come.
Planned Learning Session Topics Include
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Nutrition (1000 Series)
Focuses on menu development, culinary skills, meal compliance, and strategies to improve student participation through quality, flavor, and nutrition.
Building Breakfast Better
Catering to the Community
Back to Scratch (Cooking)
Exploring Southern Cuisine
Chef Panel: The K-12 Chef Experience
Como Identificar Comidas Reembolsables
F.R.E.S.H. Menus in Practice
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Operations (2000 Series)
Designed to strengthen day-to-day kitchen execution, food safety, efficiency, and service models that support program success across campuses.
Moonwalk That Knife
Flexible Serving Beyond the Cafeteria
Meal Appeal = Increased Participation: Quick Garnishes and Fancy Food Presentation Tips for School Nutrition Programs
Seal the Value: Vacuum Technology
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Administration (3000 Series)
Covers program management, leadership decision-making, equipment planning, research insights, and strategies to strengthen overall program performance.
Innovative Farm to School Practices with Food Allergy Management
A Director’s Guide to Equipment Procurement
From Universal Meals to Ultra-Processed Foods: What the Latest School Nutrition Research Means for Texas School Nutrition Leaders
Stronger Managers, Stronger Programs
What Are They Thinking?!? Unique Perspectives from a Former Campus Principal
From Prompt to PD
Designing Efficient K-12 Foodservice Kitchens: Equipment, Trends, and Best Practices
Foodservice Trends from Leading Shows
Empowering Equipment Decisions
Ethics Under Fire
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Communications, Marketing & Professional Growth (4000 Series)
Supports leadership development, team culture, communication skills, marketing, and personal growth to strengthen both individuals and teams.
Let Your Light Shine – Self-Development
More Than a Meal: The Culinary Professionals of Your ISD
Cafeteria Culture: Starting in the Kitchen
“The Listening Advantage”
Ignite the Light in Your Kitchen | Enciende la Luz en Tu Cocina
Emotional Intelligence: Your Secret Sauce
Revolutionary Leader: How to Lead in a World That Is Set Up for You to Follow
Upgrading Your Leadership: The Professionalism Recipe
Say Less, Influence More
Leadership & Self-Awareness
Unlocking Your Potential: A Journey of Self-Development
Don’t Take the Stress Home
Marketing Beyond the Lunch Line
Inclusive Leadership for High-Performing Teams
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Note: Additional sessions, including Texas Department of Agriculture updates and Spanish-language learning opportunities, will be included in the final program. Session titles and topics are subject to slight change.
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Thank You To Our Sponsors
We also extend our sincere thanks to our current sponsors and exhibitors, whose support helps make this event possible and strengthens the school nutrition community across Texas.
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Interested in sponsoring or exhibiting? There is still time to get involved, but the deadline is April 30. This is a valuable opportunity to connect directly with school nutrition professionals and decision-makers from across the state. Learn more and secure your spot now!
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