We would like to take time this month to honor and reflect on the rich heritage and history of Black culture in the United States. We recognize and are thankful for all of our parents, caregivers, and children at WIC who are part of this community. Thank you for being a valued part of our program.

In celebration of Black History Month, we want to spotlight one of our community members who is making tremendous strides in bettering our society.

Trina Nelson is one Dallas resident who is creating a lasting legacy. In 2024, she became the first Black Executive Chef of Dallas ISD. She stepped into her role with purpose, immediately working to change and introduce recipes that better reflect the diverse student population she serves.

As a former culinary teacher, Chef Nelson also implemented programs that involve students in the menu creation process, along with work study projects for culinary classes. She has shifted the culture around student input by applying taste tester feedback to improve recipes that were previously unpopular.

She even invited a local farmer to show students the journey food takes before it reaches their cafeteria trays, helping them better understand and appreciate fresh ingredients.

One of Chef Nelson’s most popular programs is breakfast smoothies. She relates smoothies to ice cream so students feel more comfortable trying something new. These yogurt-based drinks have become a big hit in Dallas ISD schools.

In honor of Chef Nelson and her creative impact, we are featuring one of our favorite smoothie recipes from texaswic.org.

Find your next favorite smoothie recipe here: https://texaswic.org/recipes/refreshing-fruit-smoothie

Smoothies, as Chef Nelson demonstrates, are an amazing way to include multiple fruits in one meal and maximize vitamins and minerals. Yogurt is also a smart addition. It provides protein for children who may shy away from savory options and is rich in calcium. For kids who do not enjoy drinking milk on its own, yogurt can be a great alternative.

Trying a smoothie for breakfast this month is a simple and delicious way to celebrate healthy habits, just like the students in Dallas ISD who are fortunate to have such an inspiring Executive Chef leading the way.

Follow us on Instagram @dallaswicprogram and on Facebook City of Dallas WIC Program for weekly content featuring recipes, breastfeeding tips, community resources, and more.