Edwina Forrest is named NSUAA Alumnus of the Year

Congratulations to Edwina Forrest, director of food and nutrition services for Hampton City Schools. She was named the Norfolk State University Alumni Association (NSUAA) Alumnus of the Year.

Forrest is a lifetime member of NSUAA and a proud member of the NSU Society Club and Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. She has demonstrated unwavering dedication and leadership within the Chesapeake Chapter of NSUAA since becoming a member in 2015. After serving as chapter vice president, she now leads as chapter president, where her vision and commitment have driven tremendous growth and impact. Under her leadership, the chapter has experienced consistent membership increases and strengthened its presence within the community through innovative programming and meaningful engagement.

Forrest’s passion for service has also helped cultivate strong partnerships with organizations such as ForKids and local schools, including Thurgood Marshall Elementary School in Chesapeake. Through her leadership and ability to inspire collaboration, the Chesapeake Chapter has expanded its outreach and enhanced its reputation for excellence

Professionally, Forrest has been a leader in school nutrition since 1998. As a registered dietitian and director of food and nutrition services, she manages a $16 million budget, oversees operations in 32 schools and centers, and leads a team of 140 employees. Her department serves approximately 12,000 lunches and 9,000 breakfasts daily to students. She believes that all students deserve access to healthy, nutritious school meals at no charge, regardless of their economic status. She understands that school meals are fundamental to a student’s ability to focus, learn, and succeed - just as vital as transportation and access to educational technology. She holds several professional credentials, including registered dietitian, credentialed school nutrition specialist, and ServSafe Certified. Her leadership in the profession includes serving as president of the School Nutrition Association of Virginia 2022-2023.

Forrest was formally recognized by NSUAA last fall.