Charmonique Young

At the bustling Anniston High School, a remarkable woman named Charmonique Young leads a small but immensely effective team. Feeding over 400 students daily, Charmonique and her staff are on a mission to provide quality meals that sustain students throughout the day. Every step of her career has been a testament to the power of passion and unexpected twists that lead to fulfilling, impactful callings. When reflecting on her path and where’s been, she says, “It has been an amazing journey. I would not trade my experiences for anything.”

A recent chapter of Charmonique's story began unexpectedly on her birthday, when she received the call that would change her professional trajectory. From the suggestion of her school’s principal, Charmonique had applied for the position of child nutrition site manager at Anniston High School. Originally planning to work in preschool education, Charmonique was reluctant to make the change, but once she got word that she’d been selected for the position, it proved to be a tremendous birthday gift.

She recalled a story that helped her know she was making the right move. She spoke about a 17-year-old student requesting a second breakfast after a long weekend with very little nourishment at home. For many students, school meals are not just sustenance, they are often the only truly balanced meals they receive. Charmonique and her team have become surrogate parents, providing both nutrition and a sense of care that goes beyond the cafeteria.

Anita Suttle is the child nutrition director for the Anniston school district and Charmonique’s supervisor. She says, “Mrs. Young is the manager of our high school that is surrounded by fast food restaurants, and she strives to compete. Charmonique has raised our participation by 42%.
She loves her students and her dedication shows in her willingness to be accommodating even if it means taking meals directly to the students if needed. She works tirelessly every day and asks the same of her staff.”