Description: The TASN Vice President assists the President and President-Elect and presides in their absence. The Vice President also plans the 2027 Partnership Collaboration Summit (PCS). This position is the first step toward becoming the TASN President and offers the opportunity to observe and learn the ways of the association.

Candidate: Kasandra Davis
Title: Child Nutrition Director
School District: Brenham ISD

Number of years you have been a TASN Member: 15 Years

Number of years you have been a SNA Member: 15 Years

TASN Positions you have held: Education Chair, 2022-2024, 2024-2026

TASN/SNA Presentations: 2022 Annual Conference Pre-Session NSLP/ Reimbursable Meals 2022-2023 Administrative Academy- NSLP and other Operations of CN 2023 Annual Conference TASN Maximizing your Benefits, Host Awards Program 2023-2024 Administrative Academy- NSLP and other Operations of CN 2024 Annual Conference- TASN Maximizing your Benefits, Host Awards Program 2024-2025 Administrative Academy- NSLP, Other Operations of CN, Employee Retention 2025 Annual Conference- TASN Standing Committees, Host Awards Program 2025-2026 Administrative Academy - NSLP and other Operations of CN

Education/Certifications: School Nutrition Association Level 4, 2025 ServSafe Manager Certification and Preceptor, 2022-2027 Master of Science in Human Resource Development- Emphasis is Adult Learning from Texas A&M University, 2020 Registered and Licensed Dietitian, 2013 Bachelor of Science in Food, Nutrition and Dietetics from Stephen F. Austin State University, 2010 Other Information you would like to include: I have enjoyed serving as the Education Chair for the previous two terms and participating in TASN education sessions, academies, scholarships and awards. I have learned invaluable information about how TASN operates, what it needs to improve and what members are looking for.

Goals for Office: As Vice President of TASN, I would continue our efforts on growing and retaining membership by highlighting the value of TASN and encouraging active participation at all levels. I will continue advocating for training that is easier to access, whether online, nearby or hands-on. Lastly, I will work with TASN committees, area leaders, and partners to build strong connections that help all members.

Professional Biography:
Kasandra Davis is a registered dietitian with more than 15 years of experience in school nutrition. She currently serves as the Director of Child Nutrition for Brenham ISD. Prior to joining Brenham ISD, Kasandra served as Assistant Director of Child Nutrition for Lamar Consolidated ISD and as a Dietitian for Houston ISD. Kasandra earned her bachelor’s degree in Dietetics from Stephen F. Austin State University and a master’s degree in Human Resource Development with a focus on adult learning from Texas A&M University.

Kasandra is serving her second term as TASN Education Chair, where she takes a hands-on role in planning education sessions and hosting the Administrative Academy. In 2025, she was named SNA Texas Director of the Year for her leadership and commitment to improving child nutrition programs.

Outside of work, she gives back to her community through the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo, where she serves as Captain of the Rodeo Round Up event. Kasandra is passionate about supporting and empowering child nutrition professionals through education, advocacy, and teamwork to help every student receive nutritious meals and a strong start to learning.

Candidate is running unopposed.

Description: The Membership Chair is responsible for the membership committee. It is their responsibility to create tools to promote a positive image of TASN and help continue to grow our membership.

Candidate: Brenda Rodriguez
Title: Child Nutrition Director
School District: Fort Sam Houston ISD

Number of years you have been a TASN Member: 14 Years

Number of years you have been a SNA Member: 7 Years

TASN Positions you have held: Area 10 Representative, Membership Chair, Strategic Planning Committee member

TASN/SNA Presentations: SNA (ANC 2025) volunteer webinar

Education/Certifications: Directors Academy, Administrative Academy, TASBO Emerging Leader

Goals for Office: Attract new members by encouraging current members to invite guests. Focus on member satisfaction and value to encourage renewals. Develop programs that increase member involvement.

Candidate: Bridgette L. Young, MBA, M.Ed.
Title: Assistant Director, School Nutrition Services
School District: Bryan ISD

Education/Certifications: Bachelor of Science in Hotel and Restaurant Management from the University of Houston; Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Texas Southern University; Master in Curriculum and Instruction from Sam Houston State University.

Goals for Office: Attract new members by encouraging current members to invite guests. Focus on member satisfaction and value to encourage renewals. Develop programs that increase member involvement.

Professional bio:
I currently serve as the Assistant Director of School Nutrition Services for Bryan Independent School District, where I provide leadership and direction for all personnel operations, professional development, and program compliance within the department. My responsibilities include overseeing staffing, staff training, implementing policies and procedures, and supporting continuous improvement initiatives that align with district goals and federal and state regulations. With more than a decade of experience in school nutrition, I am dedicated to building strong teams, cultivating excellence, and advancing our shared commitment to service and student success.

My career began in restaurant management, where I developed a strong foundation in leadership, operations, and customer service. I later transitioned into child nutrition as a Supervisor in Pasadena ISD, where my passion for serving students and supporting staff truly took root. I went on to serve as a Supervisor in Humble ISD and later as the Director of Child Nutrition in Franklin ISD before joining Bryan ISD as the Assistant Director. In Franklin ISD, I introduced my team to the Texas Association for School Nutrition (TASN) and worked purposefully to highlight the value of being part of a supportive professional community. By encouraging staff, sharing resources, and demonstrating the benefits firsthand, I helped grow our membership and deepen engagement in professional development. This experience strengthened my commitment to the belief that organizations like TASN help build confident, prepared, and empowered school nutrition teams.

My passion for supporting people and promoting professional growth led me to become actively involved with TASN, where I continue to find meaningful ways to serve and contribute to the success of our members and the future of school nutrition in Texas.

I have been a member of TASN for 10 years and the School Nutrition Association (SNA) for 3 years. During this time, I have remained actively involved in promoting professional development and advocating for child nutrition programs. I currently serve as a member of the TASN Education Committee, where I help support initiatives that encourage training and professional growth for all TASN members.

My education includes a Bachelor of Science in Hotel and Restaurant Management from the University of Houston, a Master of Business Administration (MBA) from Texas Southern University, and a Master in Curriculum and Instruction from Sam Houston State University. My education has strengthened my ability to lead effectively, enhance organizational engagement, and support continuous improvement in school nutrition programs.

As Membership Chair, my goal is to strengthen and grow TASN’s membership by promoting the value of active involvement and creating opportunities for connection, mentorship, and collaboration among members. I am passionate about increasing awareness of the resources TASN provides and building a sense of community that empowers school nutrition professionals to learn, serve, and lead.

I believe that together, we can continue to raise the standard of excellence in school nutrition across Texas, ensuring that every child is served with care, compassion, and commitment.

Description: The Education Chair is the liaison for the TASN certification and training department. It is their responsibility to assist with educational classes during the conference, and they are also responsible for planning and executing the Managers and Administrative Academies.

Candidate: Courtney Boullion
Title: Child Nutrition Director
School District: Hardin Jefferson ISD

Number of years you have been a TASN Member: 2 Years

Number of years you have been a SNA Member: 2 Years

TASN/SNA Presentations: I have been on the Farm Fresh presentation panel in previous years.
I have submitted multiple proposals to present at SNA this coming year.
I have done several presentations for Region 5, TDA’s Megacon Conference and several local events.

Education/Certifications: I am TASN Level 5 certified. I have a Bachelors and Masters of Science in Dietetics.

Other Information you would like to include: Hardin Jefferson won the Gold Certification award for 100% of our members certified. We also won the photo contest for the Summer Conference E-magazine. I will be sitting for my SNS exam in December, as well.

Goals for Office:My goals for the office would include promoting career growth and certification, strengthen collaboration with industry partners, develop engaging conference and state content, increase accessibility, and evaluate where we were on educational impact and how to reach further.

Candidate: Ramona Love
Title: Coordinator of Operations
School District: East Central ISD

Number of years you have been a TASN Member: 16 Years

Number of years you have been a SNA Member: 4 Years

TASN Positions you have held: 2 years as TASN Area 10 Rep, 4 years as local chapter president, 4 years as local chapter secretary, 1 year as local chapter historian

Education/Certifications: Associates Degree in History, TASN Level 5 Certification, Food Manager Certified ServSafe Certified Instructor/ Proctor
Currently pursuing Bachelor’s of Applied Technology in Operations Management- Expected Graduation May 2026

Goals for Office: Attract new members by encouraging current members to invite guests. Focus on member satisfaction and value to encourage renewals. Develop programs that increase member involvement.

Other Information you would like to include: Served three terms on the Texas 20 Advisory Board
Current CTSFSDA (Central Texas Food Service Director’s Association) President-Elect

Goals for Office:
To increase TASN membership and number of local chapters
To inspire others to seek out knowledge in order to develop themselves, their teams, and their programs
To assist in providing additional training opportunities for members

Professional bio:
Ramona Love currently serves as the Coordinator of Operations for East Central ISD. She has been with the district since 2006. During that time she has shown a steady progression from front-line roles to leadership positions within the program. She has had the privilege of handling almost every aspect of the program, at one time or another.

With TASN, Ramona has served on the Membership, Public Policy & Legislation, Education, and Conference Planning committees. Her involvement in these committees indicate her passion, and her active role in driving Texas School Nutrition forward. In addition to TASN, Ramona is a member of SNA, and is very active in CTSFSDA (Central Texas School Food Service Director’s Association). She also served three terms on the Texas20 Advisory Committee.

Outside of work, Ramona likes to travel and explore new culinary adventures. Ramona has been part of East Central ISD most of her life as a student, alumni,parent, employee, and grandparent. She is passionate about supporting her community and helping it reach new heights. On more than one occasion, she’s even gone to our state capital as a member of RootEd to advocate for our Public Schools.

Candidate: Taylor Thompson
Title: Assistant Director, School Nutrition Services
School District: North Central ISD

Number of years you have been a TASN Member: 5 Years

Number of years you have been a SNA Member: 5 Years

TASN Positions you have held:Education Committee member, PCS Planning Committee member, TASN Chefs Collaborative Lead

TASN/SNA Presentations: Chef Panel Discussion (TASN 2025), Scratch the Surface: Four Simple Culinary Concepts to Expand Scratch Offerings (TASN 2025), Get Your Program Rolling in the Right Direction: The Perfect Cheese Enchiladas (ANC 2025)

Education/Certifications: Bachelor of Arts in Music Education – University of Texas at San Antonio
ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification
Certified ServSafe Instructor and Registered ServSafe Examination Proctor
TASN Administrative Academy Graduate Certificate
TASN School Nutrition Certification Level 5

Goals for Office: Attract new members by encouraging current members to invite guests. Focus on member satisfaction and value to encourage renewals. Develop programs that increase member involvement.

Other Information you would like to include: TASN Education Committee Member, TASN Chefs Collaborative Member and former Lead, Healthy Kids Collaborative Operator Member, Consultant Trainer – Institute of Child Nutrition, Consultant Trainer – Culinary Institute of America

Goals for Office:
Include more CN Chef-Led Culinary Demos and Hands-on activities at the TASN Annual Conference
Continue improving the quality of instruction of Manager Academy and Admin Academy
Develop more online resources for TASN members

Description: It is the responsibility of the Chair of Area Representatives to be the leader of the Area Representatives. The Chair will assist the Area Representatives’ growing membership and will be willing and able to attend chapter meetings as necessary. The Chair of the Area Representatives shall serve as a member of the Board of Directors, as a liaison on the AR, and the Membership Committee.

Candidate: Tina Brooks
Title: Director of Food Services
School District: Stratford ISD

TASN Positions you have held: Area 12 Representative

Education/Certifications: Bachelor’s degree from West Texas A&M University (WTAMU)
Emergency Medical Technician (EMT)

Other Information you would like to include: Hello! My name is Tina Brooks, and I hail from Stratford, Texas. I've been happily married to my husband, Russel, for 38 years, and we are blessed with three wonderful children: Ashley, a dedicated children's hospice nurse; CJ, a skilled mechanic and welder; and Parker, a diligent sheriff's deputy. Our family also includes four delightful grandchildren: Jacolby, Roley Kaye, Jensen, and our newest addition, baby Sage. As a country girl at heart, I have a passion for the great outdoors. I enjoy gardening, riding motorcycles, hunting, and fishing. For many years, I participated in roller derby under the name "Olive Destruction" until I retired seven years ago following my diagnosis with MS. I am deeply committed to community involvement and volunteer work. My efforts include working with Girl Scouts, Toys for Tots, and serving as the Area Little Cheer Coach for the Dumas Diablos, as well as the high school JV Coach. Additionally, I volunteer with CASA, an organization dedicated to supporting children in need. Helping young children find their footing and succeed brings me immense joy, and I cherish every opportunity to make a positive impact in their lives.

Professional Bio: I am a proud graduate of Sunray Independent School District. After high school, I pursued higher education at Amarillo College, where I established the foundation for my academic journey. I obtained my Bachelor’s degree from West Texas A&M University (WTAMU), further developing my skills and knowledge in education. In addition to formal education, I have cultivated a diverse skill set through specialized programs. I participated in culinary courses at Santa Fe Community College and the University of Mississippi (Ole Miss), enhancing my culinary expertise. I also completed my Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) certification at Frank Phillips College, equipping myself with essential life-saving skills. This blend of academic and practical experiences has enriched my professional capabilities, preparing me for a dynamic career path. I have worked in various roles within the school system, beginning as a substitute teacher and then serving as a teacher's aide in several area schools in the Texas Panhandle. I am a proud member of the School Nutrition Association (SNA) and the Texas Association for School Nutrition (TASN). I currently serve as the Area 12 Representative and am on the Board of Directors.

Candidate: Sharon Jones
Title: Menu and Compliance Supervisor
School District: East Central ISD

Professional bio:
Sharon Jones is a dedicated child nutrition professional with more than 20 years of experience in school nutrition management. She began her career with Humble Independent School District, where she spent two decades serving in various leadership roles and developing a deep commitment to providing nutritious, appealing meals that support student success.

Today, Sharon serves as the Menu and Compliance Supervisor for Willis ISD, where she oversees menu planning, regulatory compliance, and nutrition program operations. Her expertise ensures that all meals meet federal and state standards while reflecting the needs and preferences of the district’s students.

A proud Conroe native and graduate of Conroe High School, Sharon is passionate about serving the community where she grew up. She continues to bring her knowledge, leadership, and enthusiasm to advancing child nutrition programs that make a positive impact on students every day.

Description: Area Representatives work regionally to share resources and amplify our members’ needs. They work hard to stay in touch with our members and help in the creation of local chapters and most importantly focus on building relationships with our members to ensure every voice is heard.

Candidate: Melissa Martino
Title: Training Manager
School District: Dickinson ISD

TASN Positions you have held: Area 2 Representative

Education/Certifications: TASN Level 5 Certified and SNA Level 4 Certified

Professional Bio: With over 20 years of dedicated experience in School Food Service, Melissa Martino, Training Manager with Dickinson ISD, has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership, professionalism, and a deep commitment to advancing child nutrition programs across Texas. As a TASN Level 5 Certified and SNA Level 4 Certified professional, she upholds the highest standards of excellence in both program operations and staff development.

During her two years of service on the Texas Association for School Nutrition (TASN) Board, Melissa contributed meaningfully to initiatives that strengthened professional growth opportunities and supported operational success statewide. She has also led the development and implementation of comprehensive training programs aligned with TASN Professional Standards, helping school nutrition teams enhance their knowledge, skills, and service quality.

As Area 2 Representative, Melissa is committed to fostering collaboration among districts, promoting professional excellence, and advocating for the resources and recognition needed to empower school nutrition professionals to provide nutritious, high-quality meals to every Texas student.

Description: Area Representatives work regionally to share resources and amplify our members’ needs. They work hard to stay in touch with our members and help in the creation of local chapters and most importantly focus on building relationships with our members to ensure every voice is heard.

Candidate: Shannon Almand
Title: Child Nutrition Director
School District: Quitman ISD

TASN/SNA Presentations: Featured speaker at the ANC 2025

Education/Certifications: Bachelor of Science in Nutrition from Purdue University

Professional Bio: Shannon Almand serves as the Child Nutrition Director for Quitman ISD, where she is dedicated to ensuring all students have access to fresh, healthy, and enjoyable meals each day. With more than 13 years of experience in school nutrition and leadership, she combines her expertise in nutrition, communication, and team development to strengthen programs, engage communities, and support student success.

An accomplished public speaker, Shannon has shared her passion for school nutrition and team engagement at local, state, and national conferences—including as a featured speaker at the ANC 2025 Conference. She is known for bringing energy, storytelling, and practical strategies that inspire professionals in the field.

She earned a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition from Purdue University and has also held leadership roles with UnitedHealthcare and DairyMAX, bringing a broad perspective on wellness, teamwork, and community impact. Outside of her professional work, Shannon enjoys traveling and spending time with family and friends.

Description: Area Representatives work regionally to share resources and amplify our members’ needs. They work hard to stay in touch with our members and help in the creation of local chapters and most importantly focus on building relationships with our members to ensure every voice is heard.

Candidate: Ryan Cengel, MS, MA, RDN, LD, SNS
Title: Director of Food and Nutrition Services
School District: Manor ISD

Education/Certifications: Undergraduate degrees in Culinary Arts and Culinary Nutrition from Johnson & Wales University, as well as master’s degrees in education from North Park University and in Nutrition from Arizona State University. He is a licensed educator in the state of Texas, certified to teach Science, Health Science Technology, and Health. In addition, he holds the School Nutrition Specialist (SNS) credential through the School Nutrition Association.

Professional Bio: Ryan Cengel MS MA RDN LD SNS- Ryan Cengel, MS, MA, RDN, LD, SNS is a Registered Dietitian with over a decade of experience in school nutrition. He currently serves as the Director of Food and Nutrition Services for Manor Independent School District, a position he has held since 2021.

Ryan holds undergraduate degrees in Culinary Arts and Culinary Nutrition from Johnson & Wales University, as well as master’s degrees in education from North Park University and in Nutrition from Arizona State University. He is a licensed educator in the state of Texas, certified to teach Science, Health Science Technology, and Health. In addition, he holds the School Nutrition Specialist (SNS) credential through the School Nutrition Association.

A Returned Peace Corps Volunteer, Ryan served in Niger from 2004 to 2006 as a Health Volunteer, where he focused on projects related to nutrition, maternal and child health, and food and water security.

Ryan remains actively involved in the professional community. He serves on the Institute of Child Nutrition’s Leadership Cohort and chairs the Research Committee for the School Nutrition Dietetic Practice Group within the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics.

Candidate: Tiffany Eckenrod
Title: Director of Child Nutrition
School District: Medina Valley ISD

Number of years you have been a TASN Member: 8 Years

Number of years you have been a SNA Member: 8 Years

TASN Positions you have held: None with TASN; SNA – Nutrition & Research Committee (2 year term – Nutrition Expertise)

Education/Certifications: Master’s Degree in Family and Consumer Science with emphasis in Dietetics – 2008
Registered Dietitian – 2008
Licensed Dietitian – 2008
ServSafe Food Manager – ongoing – current certificate expires 10.5.2027
ServSafe Proctor & Instructor – expires 1.23.27
School Nutrition Specialist (SNS) – expires 05.31.28

Other Information you would like to include: I have worked in School Food Services for 8 years and have served in 2 different Districts. The two Districts are very different from each other and that provides experience in various areas. I have served as the Secretary for our Medina Valley SHAC committee for the past two years and have served in an active role on the Wellness Plan committee.

Goals for Office: I would love to our schools in this area networking and collaborating. There are so many things we could all learn from each other and take “home” so we can build relationships at our home District. We have a lot of agriculture in this part of the State and I would love for our Districts to work together and discuss procurement from local farmers and producers to increase availability of local produce in school meals. This is a fast growth area in Texas and networking is vital!

Candidate: Rachelle Kan, CDM, CFPP
Title: Director of Child Nutrition Food Services
School District: George Gervin Academy

Number of years you have been a TASN Member: 2 Years

Number of years you have been a SNA Member: 1 Year

Education/Certifications: ServSafe Manager – 7/23/2029
Certified Dietary Manager; Certified Food Protection Professional – 11/6/2030
TASN Level 4 Certified
ACS – Stop the Bleed, American College of Surgeons
First Aid CPR AED – Certified, American Heart Association

Other Information you would like to include: Serving a 2-year term w/ Texas 20 Advisory Committee. Serving a 2-year term w/ CTSFSDA as Secretary. TASN College Scholarship 24–25. CTSFSDA College Scholarship 24–25. NIFEF ANFP Scholarship.

Goals for Office: To help increase membership in Area 10+, increase awareness of TASN’s mission statement. Hold onsite or virtual meetings to discuss informative information to new & existing members on upcoming events or general questions. Try to hold training sessions/integrate ESC Region 20 learning sessions for our new members to help broaden their site on why TASN is the cream of the crop!