Diving Into the National Child Nutrition Conference: Tuesday Recap
April 15, 2025
A Strong Start to the Day
The morning kicked off as attendees checked in and prepared for a day full of learning. Early risers participated in Creditable Tools & Resources, gaining valuable insights into ensuring compliance with program regulations.
Attendees then connected through Group Meetups, fostering meaningful discussions and collaborations. The NCA Annual Member Meeting provided an important update on association initiatives and future goals.
Informative Sessions & Hands-On Learning
The morning featured a variety of informative sessions, including the CACFP Overview, which provided a foundational understanding of the Child and Adult Care Food Program. State agency representatives also engaged in State Agency Collaboration, fostering dialogue on effective policy implementation.
The Preconference Academy continued, offering deep dives into specialized topics, while the Exhibit Hall opened its doors, allowing attendees to explore the latest products and services supporting child nutrition programs.
A highlight of the mid-morning was the CACFP Certification Program Overview, where attendees learned about professional certification opportunities. A Mid-Morning Coffee Break provided a chance to recharge and network before the afternoon sessions.
National Conference General Session & Featured Speakers
The afternoon was anchored by the National Conference General Session, bringing together all attendees for an inspiring keynote presentation and important industry updates.
Following this, the USDA CACFP Policy Update featured key insights into the latest program regulations and guidelines, equipping attendees with the knowledge to stay compliant and improve program effectiveness.
The NCA Friend of CACFP Award honors and recognizes an individual who has demonstrated a commitment to supporting and improving the USDA Child and Adult Care Food Program (CACFP) through leadership and initiative. During our General Session we were pleased to present this year’s award to U.S. Congressional Representative Greg Landsman who has been a champion of child nutrition since joining Congress, pushing forward legislation such as the Child Care Nutrition Enhancement Act to address the current needs of CACFP operators and ensure that millions of children have access to nutritious meals.
Building Connections & Exploring Innovations
The Exhibit Hall reopened in the late afternoon, giving attendees another opportunity to connect with vendors, discover new resources, and learn about cutting-edge solutions for child nutrition programs.
The day wrapped up with the Welcome Reception, where attendees gathered in a relaxed setting to celebrate the start of the conference, exchange ideas, and build lasting professional relationships.
Looking Ahead
Tuesday set the tone for a dynamic and enriching conference experience. With more sessions, workshops, and networking opportunities ahead, attendees are in for an exciting week of learning and collaboration. Stay tuned for more updates as the National Child Nutrition Conference continues!
