Mary Rose Vanas

At Shelby Public Schools in Michigan, the vibrant Mary Rose Vanas has transformed the district’s foodservice program into a remarkable example of what dedication and innovation can achieve. As this month’s Trayblazer, we are thrilled to highlight her incredible journey, accomplishments, and the positive impact she’s made within her community.

Mary’s foodservice career began in 1992 when she accepted a position as a cook in Belfast, Northern Ireland. That experience laid the foundation for her deep commitment to feeding others. She honed her skills working in various roles, where she learned not only about cooking but also about leadership and building strong community ties. These early years were pivotal in shaping her approach to foodservice, one that goes beyond simply providing meals—it’s about nourishing both the body and the soul. She says of her current role, “As someone living in the United States from another country, when I go to work every day, that’s my family.”

As the foodservice director for Shelby Public Schools, Mary faces numerous challenges, particularly in distributing food to the more isolated and underserved parts of her district. Shelby is a rural county, and with a student body of 1,200, Mary ensures students are always receiving nutritious meals. But feeding students is just the beginning of her efforts—her work extends beyond the walls of the school to the broader community.

One of her proudest achievements has been the evolution of the district’s summer feeding program. What started as a modest effort with just two people has now expanded to a team of 26. She’s been able to engage full-time school staff, ensuring they have employment opportunities during the summer months while continuing their vital work in feeding the community. She’s also enlisted the help of students — some with special needs — who volunteer as part of the program, gaining valuable experience and the satisfaction of giving back.

Partnering with No Kid Hungry has allowed Mary to further expand the program’s reach. The program has not only provided essential meals but has also become a cornerstone of community support. Local businesses have become involved, supplying honey, fruits, vegetables, and juices. This integration of local resources has reinforced the idea that feeding the community is a collective effort, uniting various stakeholders in a shared mission.

Mary is more than a leader; she’s a mentor and a friend to those she works with. Her goal is to unite her team, not just on a professional level, but by taking an interest in their personal lives as well. Whether it’s offering a listening ear or lending a helping hand, Mary goes above and beyond to show her care and compassion. She says, “I think people on my team see me as someone they can come to seek guidance or advice, and I’d absolutely help however I can.”