What does being a CDM, CFPP mean to you?
Tucker Hamann, CDM, CFPP
Pierre, SD
“What does being a CDM, CFPP mean to me? It means that I have the knowledge and skills to provide the highest level of quality not only with high quality service but the highest level of quality of food. I began my journey as a CDM, CFPP very recently and it opened my eyes to many different aspects of this career. I am proud to serve my clients the most nutritious meals with the highest quality possible, [and I am proud to] build relationships with the staff that I work with and the many clients that I serve. I’m always excited to attend work to see what every new day brings and the joy and love that I can share with my clients and staff. I have seen what an impact I can make with everyone that I serve, giving me the fuel and passion to move forward with building the most favorable environment and relationships that I come by in this profession. Taking this role has shown me the true importance of a CDM, CFPP, to the clients and staff that you serve. This is truly an amazing career to be a part of.”
Samantha Brown, CDM, CFPP
Brookville, PA
“I first entered the skilled nursing facility world when I was a culinary student. Upon graduation, I took an externship in southwestern Pennsylvania, and my world became about fine dining, banquets, catering, and adapting to new environments. I cooked in everything from a Forbes 5-star restaurant to a country club to a state prison feeding 1,000 inmates. Thirteen years later, coming back to a skilled nursing facility meant coming home. I was able to bring everything I'd learned about how kitchens operate and share that knowledge in a small town with good folks who truly want to care for people. Earning my CDM, CFPP meant taking ownership of my department, taking responsibility for the quality of the food we put out, taking pride in what I do, and taking care of the residents who depend on us for nutritious, delicious meals. Being a CDM, CFPP in a skilled nursing facility means you could be serving someone their last meal on this Earth. It means putting extra love into that grilled cheese sandwich. It means listening at Dining Council meetings because those residents volunteer their time to give me feedback. It means giving a bit of creative freedom to my team to make something special for an activity or birthday celebration. Being a CDM, CFPP in a facility like this means giving importance to the little things because those are the things that matter to my residents.”
Ann Herradura, CDM, CFPP
Chicago, IL
“Being a CDM, CFPP means having the knowledge and expertise to ensure the safe and efficient management of food service operations. It means striving for excellence and being a leader in the industry. It has also expanded my knowledge and skills in this field, and has opened up countless opportunities for career growth and advancement. It has truly been a rewarding experience that has allowed me to make a positive impact on the organizations I serve. It is a badge of honor that signifies my dedication to upholding the highest standards, and I am excited to continue excelling in this profession.”
Lisa Williams Muhammad, CDM, CFPP
Mooresville, NC
“Being a CDM, CFPP means more than a professional achievement—it is a calling that fuels my passion, purpose, and dedication to helping others. The CDM, CFPP certification reflects my expertise in foodservice management and my commitment to continual growth, but it also represents the profound responsibility I hold to improve lives through nourishment and care.
Through my journey as a CDM, CFPP, I have not only honed my skills—designing menus that bring comfort and nutrition, ensuring the highest food safety standards, and leading teams with compassion—but I have also discovered the deep impact of my work. Whether it is seeing a patient regain strength with a carefully planned meal, witnessing the joy of residents during a shared dining experience, or inspiring my team to reach new heights, every moment reminds me why the role of CDM, CFPP is so significant.
Being a CDM, CFPP has opened doors to leadership opportunities and personal growth, challenging me to push beyond limits and embrace innovation. It has shaped me into someone who leads not just with knowledge, but with integrity and empathy.
CDM, CFPP means excellence, service, and community; all values I hold dear motivating me to stay ahead of industry trends, inspire others to join our profession, and contribute to a legacy of care and quality.”
Shawn Williams, CDM, CFPP
Grenada, MS
“I have been a CDM, CFPP since 2012 and have grown so much since. It has opened many doors along with the power of moving up in a company. I currently work for one of the largest corporations in the world, Compass Group. They are very supportive on paying for my CEUs and making sure I have all the tools I need to stay on top of new regulations and even leadership trends. Being a CDM, CFPP has given me the confidence you need to go in and make a difference. It is by far a notch on my belt that makes me walk in anywhere and know I am educated and well-versed in how things should be run. Right now, I am the Food Service Director at an account in Grenada, MS for UMMC, but because of my CDM, CFPP, I can move anywhere I may choose.”
Craig Kwolik, CDM, CFPP
St. Cloud, MN
“I have worked in food service my entire life. From a General Manager at McDonald’s corporation for almost 22 years to working in senior living the last four years. I recently went through the program and became a CDM, CFPP in 2022. I find the work we do is very rewarding, and the residents and tenants we serve each day makes it a better experience. Knowing that what we do is what is helping them heal and makes a lasting impression. This is their home and to some, their last, so knowing that makes our work even more important. I love talking with the residents either at meetings, mealtime, or just passing by and hearing their thoughts, suggestions, and recommendations about our menu and the food prep. Each day, going to work knowing we make that experience for them challenges me to do better each and every day. It has also helped me in my life to grow my knowledge and help make better food choices in my personal life. I love what I do each and every day! I feel so lucky to have these credentials."
Marj Smith, CDM, CFPP
St. James, MN
“Being a CDM, CFPP has provided me with the skills needed to be able to efficiently run a long-term care, assisted living, and independent living food service department. It also has given me the tools to do consulting and be a food service broker. I am currently the Nutrition and Foodservice Director at the CCRC Good Samaritan Society in St. James, MN. I feel blessed to be able to provide nutritional education to our current residents and our residents being discharged so that they may succeed in their homes.”
Tabitha Ruiz, CDM, CFPP
Monroe, LA
“Earning my CDM, CFPP has been a very rewarding journey. It means I can feed the people in my facility with the security of knowing it has been done correctly, and with all safety standards met. Food holds memories for people. It reminds them that they are loved. My favorite part of the day is seeing someone enjoy the food that came from our kitchen. Being able to be a part of that is the best feeling in the world. I am proud to work with a team that puts the resident first and takes pride in the way our food is made all the way through presentation on the plate. I am proud to be a CDM, CFPP and look forward to the journey ahead.”
Sharon Sorsby, CDM, CFPP
Detroit, MI
“Being a [CDM, CFPP means being a] valuable asset in the workforce and assisting my staff with the knowledge they require to enhance the dining atmosphere for our residents. It feels great when I observe my residents enjoying a quality meal and great service from our staff. I've been in dietary since 1987. I became a Dietetic Technician and then a CDM, CFPP. I have seen myself grow and sustain a lucrative and enjoyable career with sincere commitment. This is my success story.”