Melissa Lambert, the cafeteria manager at Quaker Hill Elementary School, was honored this month with the School Nutrition Association of Connecticut (SNACT) Rising Star — Food Service Staff award.

The annual award recognizes a SNACT manager for their accomplishments and sustained contributions to their district school meal program, advancing good nutrition in the state’s schools and communities.

Lambert is a first-year manager at Quaker Hill whose positive energy and affection for children is an inspiration to her colleagues. Lambert organized with the custodial staff and food service team a car parade to help keep students’ spirits up during the pandemic. She helped decorate cars, coordinated costumes and made signs, often working late to do so.

Students and staff alike look forward to her bulletin board creations and cafeteria decorations. When the pandemic prevented students from eating in the cafeteria, Lambert brought her decor and energy to the hallways, greeting students and promoting the breakfast program. Quaker Hill has had the highest meal participation numbers in the entire district during Lambert’s tenure.

Friends & Neighbors is a regular feature in the Times. To contribute, email times@theday.com.