Morgan was selected for her desire to change perceptions of school food by collaborating with values-aligned partners.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 1, 2023
Contact: foodcorps@ssmandl.com
NEW YORK, NY—Today, FoodCorps announced that its Director of School Nutrition Leadership, Morgan McGhee, MPH, RD, will be among the first cohort of 100 emerging changemakers selected to participate in the Obama Foundation’s Leaders USA program. The Obama Leaders program is a six-month virtual program that supports and connects emerging leaders in the United States, Africa, Asia-Pacific, and Europe through a values-based leadership framework inspired by the ideals and legacy of President and Mrs. Obama.
“I’m honored to be part of the Obama Foundation’s inaugural cohort of trailblazing United States leaders,” said Morgan. “This invaluable experience will help foster new connections and hone new skills to help FoodCorps ensure what’s on the lunch tray reflects a child’s home culture and community.”
Chosen from a highly competitive pool of applicants, Morgan was selected for her strong desire to change perceptions of school food by collaborating with school nutrition districts and values-aligned organizations to develop a school nutrition leadership program for emerging leaders.
As a public health dietitian, Morgan has spent her career serving students in Texas, California, and Virginia as a menu planner, nutrition educator, and food services operations specialist. Now based in Southern California, Morgan has been at FoodCorps for nearly four years and leads its school nutrition work while leading strategy for its Food Operators & Leaders of Color in Schools (FOLCS) program, FoodCorps’ professional network for people of color working in school nutrition. Morgan’s commitment to promoting health, diversity, and inclusion in school nutrition is a driving force in her efforts to improve the well-being of students and communities.
The inaugural cohort of United States “Obama Leaders” is composed of values-driven changemakers from every corner of the country. Hailing from 37 states; Washington, D.C.; American Samoa; Guam; and five tribal nations, these Obama Leaders are united by their passion for building a stronger, more sustainable, and more inclusive world.
“We are excited to welcome these 100 changemakers from across the United States into the Obama Foundation family,” said Valerie Jarrett, CEO of the Obama Foundation. “Our newest Obama Leaders are already making a difference in their communities and are ready to take their work to the next level. They embody the values of President and Mrs. Obama, and their impactful work will create positive change in communities across the country.”
The Leaders USA program offers participants a unique and comprehensive experience, including a values-driven leadership curriculum, action labs focused on strengthening democratic institutions and culture in the U.S., community groups for fostering constructive dialogue in a polarized environment, and one-on-one support to help tackle some of the most pressing issues of our time. As part of the six-month program, Morgan will convene virtually each week with the United States Obama Leaders cohort for interactive sessions designed to help them drive change by honing their leadership skills, building deep relationships with their peers, and engaging with thought leaders and members of the Obama Foundation community. Morgan will also have an opportunity to engage with President Obama, participate in various virtual experiences and special events, including one-on-one conversations with experienced mentors in the Foundation’s global network.
To learn more about Morgan McGhee and FoodCorps, please visit www.foodcorps.org.
To learn more about the program and the individuals who make up the inaugural cohort, visit obama.org/leaders.
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