Inspiring Careers in Food Lunch & Learn: Opportunities for the Next Generation

In her role as the Vice President of Resource Development and Partnerships, Laura provides leadership, influences strategic direction, plans and executes national events, identifies, and generates resources to support the JA Area network, including external constituents and local JA Area staff. Her work focuses on developing high quality and sustainable relationships with corporate and association/organization partners to increase the quantity, diversity, and quality of JA partners. Additionally, Laura works cross functionally to ensure a positive JA experience by all stakeholders that will increase the connection to Junior Achievement with the goal of strengthening commitments and developing advocates. Laura has been with the Junior Achievement organization since 2006 working both at the local JA Area level and in various roles with the National office. 

David Fikes is the Executive Director of the FMI Foundation, which has the mission of supporting the food industry through a focus on research and education in the areas of food safety and health and well-being. His position allows him to act upon his conviction that humans have a right to safe food and consumers have a right to clear information and viable choices. 

Formerly, David served as FMI's Vice President for Communication and Consumer/Community Relations and before joining FMI he was the Director of Communication for the American Frozen Food Institute. Prior to entering the world of food trade associations, he worked for 20 years as an Episcopal priest, serving parishes in Georgia, Tennessee and Texas.  

He and his wife, Lisa, are the proud parents of Harper whose soccer skills have now exceeded those of her Dad.