Micha James
The Director of Nutrition Services
Micha James
Micha James, M.S., RDN is the Director of Nutrition Services for the Monterey Peninsula Unified School District. She holds undergraduate degrees in Business Administration, African American Studies, and Health Psychology, and a graduate degree in Nutrition Sciences. Her alma maters include the University of California, Los Angeles and San Jose State University. She is passionate about health and nutrition, and has conducted research across several areas including: mental health disparities and nutrition in adults, body image disorders among college students, child development and positive/negative food relationships, and social activity and eating in older adults. She believes strongly in the connection between nutrition and academic success, and is excited to have the opportunity to influence positive and long-term healthy eating habits within the MPUSD community and among its students.
Biography
As Executive Chef Director of Nutrition Services for Cheney Public Schools since 2015, LJ has revolutionized K-12 dining by creating scratch-made, nutritious meals while championing sustainable practices to minimize food waste. His innovative approaches inspire students to embrace healthy, eco-conscious food choices. Beyond schools, LJ consults nationwide, collaborating with early childhood programs, the Washington Fire Chiefs Association to integrate sustainable menus into fire stations, and the Department of Defense to educate military families. As the founder of Richland Community College’s Culinary Arts Institute, he empowered future chefs to prioritize sustainability.
On the panel, LJ will share practical strategies to combat food waste, drawing on his servant leadership philosophy and culinary expertise. Using food as a universal language, he’ll challenge attendees to rethink waste through purpose-driven solutions, from community kitchens to institutional reforms, inspiring actionable change for a more sustainable future.
Sessions
2/24/26
9am-Rising Collection Costs- Celebrity Ballroom
2/25/26
11am- Food Waste in Education- Celebrity E
