National Food Service Management Institute Administration and Staffing Grant

The Institute of Child Nutrition (ICN), formerly known as the National Food Service Management Institute (NFMSI) is part of the School of Applied Science at The University of Mississippi and is the only federally funded national center dedicated to applied research, education and training, and technical assistance for Child Nutrition Programs. The Institute was established and authorized by Congress, in 1989, and funded at The University of Mississippi in 1991 by a grant administered through the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), Food and Nutrition Service (FNS). In 1994, the Institute was permanently authorized. The specific duties (described below) of the Institute can be found in section 21 of the Richard B. Russell National School Lunch Act, 42 U.S.C. 1769b-1. The Institute's mission is to provide relevant research-based information and services that promote the continuous improvement of Child Nutrition Programs. The vision is to lead the nation in providing education, research, and resources to promote excellence in Child Nutrition Programs. The Institute serves anyone connected with the Child Nutrition Programs: National School Lunch, School Breakfast, Summer Food Service, and Child and Adult Care Food Programs. As a national center, and to fulfill its mission, the Institute develops educational resources and offers training and technical assistance using appropriate technology for child nutrition professionals across the nation and conducts applied research. It is the training and technical assistance arm of the Child Nutrition Programs.