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2024 SNAAZ Annual
Professional Growth Conference
Begins In

Conference
Schedule

Little America Hotel / Conference Center
April 12-13, 2024

FRIDAY – APRIL 12, 2024

LITTLE AMERICA RESORT/CONFERENCE CENTER

3:00 – 6:30 PM

Grand Ballroom Foyer

Got it! To register, I’ll head to the lobby and take the hallway on the left next to the Gift Shop. Then, I’ll follow the signs directing me to the registration area in front of the Grand Ballroom. Following these directions should lead me straight to where I need to be.

Once I arrive at the registration area, I’ll check in and make sure I have all the necessary materials for the event. It’s important to start off on the right foot by completing the registration process promptly and efficiently.

With the registration taken care of, I’ll be ready to dive into the event and make the most of the learning and networking opportunities it offers. Let’s get started!

6:00 – 7:30 PM

Grand Ballroom A,B,C

You will not want to miss out on a fabulous sit down dinner prepared by the world renowned Chef of Little America.  If you have food allergies please note them when you register and the Little America staff will be sure to offer a delicious and safe alternative for you.

7:30 - 10:00 PM

Grand Ballroom A,B,C

FUN-raising Activity  – Karaoke by  “7000 Feet of Sound”

This year, after Friday night’s dinner, get ready to unleash your inner superstar at our Karaoke Competition hosted by “7000 Feet of Sound.” Dress up in costume or perform as you are – it’s your time to shine! Prizes await the best individual and group performances.

SATURDAY – APRIL 13, 2024

LITTLE AMERICA RESORT/CONFERENCE CENTER

7:00 - 8:00 AM

Grand Ballroom Foyer

Thank you for letting me know! If I didn’t get a chance to register on Friday night, I appreciate the option to pick up my registration materials on Saturday morning. It’s reassuring to know that arrangements have been made to accommodate those who might have missed the registration window.

I’ll plan to arrive early on Saturday morning to ensure I have enough time to register and collect my materials before the day’s events begin. This way, I’ll be fully prepared and equipped to participate in all the activities and sessions planned for the day.

Once I receive my registration materials, I’ll review them carefully to make sure I have everything I need, such as event schedules, name badges, and any other important information. With registration taken care of, I’ll be ready to fully immerse myself in the event and make the most of the experience. Thank you for the flexibility and assistance!

7:15 - 8:00 AM

Grand Ballroom A,B,C

Yes your Mom was right … breakfast is the most important meal of the day.  So be sure to joing us for a wonderful hot sit down breakfast in the Grand Ballroom.

8:00 - 9:30 AM

Grand Ballroom A,B,C

“Welcome” – Patti Bilbrey

“Pledge of Allegiance” – Natalie Tenney

“Thought of the Day” – Michelle Hall

“Keynote Presentation – Lori Anna Harrison, “How Knowing Your Personality Type Can Change Your (Personal & Professional) Life”

9:30 - 9:45 AM

Sure, let’s take a quick break and get ready for some education enrichment. Finding an education breakout room sounds like a great idea. Let’s head over to the designated area and see what’s on offer for today’s learning. As we enter the room, let’s keep an open mind and be ready to absorb some valuable knowledge. Whether it’s a discussion, workshop, or presentation, there’s always something new to learn and explore. Let’s make the most of this opportunity to feed our minds and expand our horizons.

9:45 - 10:30 AM

(All Attendees)

Class 1 – “Top AZ School District Success Story” – Laveen ESD Team Leaders – (Flagstaff)

Class 2 – “Kitchen Tips and Tricks for School Foodservice” – Chef Robert Simmelink – (Grand Ballroom A&B)

Class 3 – “Food Safety/HAACP Refresher For Child Nutrition” (Spanish Only) – Yezica Hostetler – (Ponderosa)

10:30 - 10:35 AM

Got it! Let’s make the most of these five minutes and quickly find the next education session. I’ll head over to the event schedule or wherever the session information is posted and scan for the next available session. Time is of the essence, so I’ll focus on finding something that interests me and fits within the time frame. Once I locate the session, I’ll note down the location or online link if it’s a virtual event and make sure to get there on time. Every minute counts when it comes to learning opportunities! Let’s move swiftly and efficiently.

 
 
 
 

10:35 - 11:20 AM

(All Attendees)

Class 1 – “Conflict Resolution & People Management” – Tyler Ross – (Grand Ballroom A&B)

Class 2 – “How To Be Successful On Your Next Job Interview” – Craig Weidel – (Flagstaff)

Class 3 – “Public Policy & Legislation – Everybody CAN Make A Difference” –Melissa Reason – (Ponderosa)

11:20 - 12:15 PM

Grand Ballroom A&B

Great, it’s time for lunch and some socializing with friends and colleagues. I’ll head to the Grand Ballroom to pick up my meal and then find a nice spot to enjoy it with others. Lunchtime is not only about refueling our bodies but also about connecting with people and building relationships.

While I’m at it, I’ll make sure to take care of the hotel checkout process as well. It’s important to stay organized and not leave any loose ends, especially when it comes to logistics like checking out of the hotel. Once I have my meal and have had a chance to catch up with everyone, I’ll make my way back to the hotel room to complete the checkout process.

Balancing mealtime, socializing, and logistical tasks like hotel checkout requires a bit of planning and time management, but it’s all part of ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience at the event. Let’s make the most of this lunch break!

12:15 - 12:30 PM

Grand Ballroom A&B

Absolutely, I wouldn’t want to miss the 2023 Future Leadership Academy Graduation, especially since it’s such a significant event for child nutrition professionals who have completed their training. Recognizing their hard work and dedication is important, and I’m sure it will be an inspiring and uplifting ceremony.

I’ll make sure to mark this event on my schedule and prioritize attending it. It’s always encouraging to see individuals in the field of child nutrition advancing their skills and knowledge, as they play a crucial role in promoting healthy eating habits and well-being among children.

Attending the graduation ceremony will not only show support for the graduates but also provide an opportunity to celebrate their achievements and learn from their experiences. It’s events like these that remind us of the importance of continuous learning and professional development in our respective fields.

12:30 - 1:15 PM

(Director/Supervisor)

“Tips and Tricks For A Successful ADE Administrative Review” –  ADE Expert Panel  – (Aspen)

12:30 - 1:15 PM

(Manager/Employee)

Class 1 – “Top AZ School District Success Story” – Laveen ESD Team Leaders – (Flagstaff)

Class 2 – “Kitchen Tips and Tricks for School Foodservice” – Chef Robert Simmelink – (Grand Ballroom A&B)

Class 3 – “Food Safety/HAACP Refresher For Child Nutrition” (Spanish Only) – Yezica Hostetler – (Ponderosa)

1:15 - 1:20 PM

Understood! Time to move swiftly to the next class. I’ll quickly gather my belongings and head to the designated classroom or virtual session, ensuring I’m right on time. Being punctual is key, especially when it comes to maximizing learning opportunities and respecting the instructor’s time.

I’ll focus on maintaining a brisk pace and staying organized as I transition to the next class. Every minute counts, so I won’t waste any time. Once I arrive, I’ll settle in and prepare to engage fully in the upcoming session. Let’s make the most of these five minutes and ensure a smooth transition to the next learning experience!

1:20 - 2:05 PM

(All Attendees)

Class 1 – “Conflict Resolution & People Management” – Tyler Ross – (Grand Ballroom A&B)

Class 2 – “How To Be Successful On Your Next Job Interview” – Craig Weidel – (Flagstaff)

Class 3 – “Public Policy & Legislation – Everybody Can Make A Difference” – Melissa Reason – (Ponderosa)

2:05 - 2:10 PM

It sounds like you’ve had quite an enriching and intense learning experience! Taking a break to decompress is essential for recharging and processing all the information you’ve absorbed.

As for the Closing General Session with giveaways, that sounds like a fantastic way to wrap up the event. I’ll make sure to mark it on my schedule and prioritize attending. Not only will it be an opportunity to unwind and enjoy some fun activities, but the giveaways add an extra element of excitement.

I’ll use this break to relax, recharge, and prepare for the Closing General Session. It’s always nice to end an event on a high note, and I’m looking forward to participating in the session and potentially winning some prizes. Let’s make the most of this break and finish the event strong!

2:05 - 2:10 PM

Grand Ballroom A,B,C

Absolutely, I won’t want to miss out on the chance to win some great items during the last few minutes of the event! I’ll make sure to be present and engaged during the Closing General Session to have a shot at winning one of those prizes.

It’s always exciting to participate in giveaways, especially when they offer valuable or interesting items. I’ll stay attentive and involved until the very end of the event to maximize my chances of winning. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to end the event on a high note and potentially take home a memorable souvenir.

With the anticipation of winning something exciting, I’ll be sure to stay engaged and enjoy the final moments of the event. Let’s see what luck has in store!

Register for 2024 SNAAZ
Professional Growth Conference

We are so excited to announce the 2024 Professional Growth Conference (PGC).  This year’s conference will be held at the beautiful Little America Hotel and Conference Center in Flagstaff, Arizona. The PGC planning committee has planned a spectacular event for every level of child nutrition.  So, if you are a director, supervisor, manager, frontline team member, or central office/warehouse there will be some wonderful education classes and information geared specifically for you.  Also, we will be presenting an education track in Spanish for those more comfortable learning in that language.

We are a state affiliate to the School Nutrition Association (SNA), which represents over 55,000 individuals who have made a commitment to child nutrition.

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