March 29 - April 2, 2027
Chicago, Illinois
General Session
Tuesday, March 30 | 1:30 pm – 3:00 pm
When we come together in one room with one mission, we leave energized by new perspectives and united in our commitment to child and adult nutrition. This session is thoughtfully designed with speakers who will inspire innovation, strengthen our shared purpose, and remind us why our work matters in ensuring all children and adults have access to healthy meals
Meet Our Distinguished Speakers
Jorge Perez
President & CEO, YMCA of Greater Cincinnati
Jorge leads work focused on human development, specifically focused on achievement, relationships and belonging. A longtime nonprofit executive, Jorge is known for helping organizations turn purpose into practice. He also leads emerging work in AI and innovation, exploring how technology can expand staff capacity, strengthen organizations and create greater impact without losing the human connection at the heart of the mission.
Dion Dawson
Chief Dreamer and CEO, Dion's Chicago Dream
Dion is a nationally-recognized social entrepreneur, systems innovator and Founder of Dion’s Chicago Dream. A U.S. Navy veteran and TED Fellow, Dion has built one of the country’s most innovative models for food access, using logistics, technology, and community-rooted leadership to transform how food moves and how communities thrive.
Deborah Gillison-Wilson, CMP, CCNP
National CACFP Association Board Chair (Executive Director, Georgia Nutritional Services)
Deborah, with experience working with CACFP since the 1990s, has been a CACFP sponsor since 1996. She has led over 40 annual CACFP and Civil Rights trainings and has an overwhelming internal library of knowledge of CACFP. Under her directive, GNSI exists to improve and maintain the sound nutritional health of children and adults by promoting the development of good eating habits for participants enrolled in their clients’ facilities.
Alexia Thex, MED
President, National CACFP Association
Alexia leads NCA's strategic direction, guiding advocacy efforts and organizational growth that advance the mission and interests of association members. Alexia draws on extensive experience in nonprofit management to deliver high‑quality programming and nutrition education training, resources and events that support the success of CACFP stakeholders. Alexia is committed to expanding access to and modernizing the food program. Alexia holds a Master of Education from the University of Texas at Austin.
USDA Food and Nutrition Administration
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