Ben Guyton has made a remarkable impact as the Director of Student Nutrition programs in the Tamalpais High School District (TUHSD), bringing together his expertise, passion and leadership to improve student health and wellness.
Guyton manages nutrition programs across TUHSD, gathering data to understand the needs and desires of students who eat school-provided meals. His dedication doesn’t go unnoticed.
Guyton even empowers students by leading Redwood’s Nutrition Committee, where students get to taste test food and give their insight on what food is offered in the cafeteria.
Sophomore Berkeley Smith is a member of the Nutrition Committee.
“[Guyton] is the sweetest, most kind person ever,” Smith said. “He takes all of the student nutrition committees’ opinions, and actually takes action with them.”
Senior Renata Lionetti, is an ASB Officer, and is constantly coordinating with Guyton on food- related matters for leadership events.
“[Guyton] connects the student body to the larger picture of [TUHSD] in California nutrition laws,” Lionetti said.
Guyton’s day-to-day work impacts students directly.
“When the vending machines aren’t working, he’s always the one who fixes them,” Smith said. “He also helps improve nutrition by trying out new foods in the cafeteria and making sure the free meals are the best they can be while keeping students’ preferences in mind.”
Because of Guyton’s behind- the- scenes effort, his commitment really stands out to his students. This commitment began during his college years.
“I have both a bachelor’s degree in economics, and a culinary degree from the California Culinary Academy in San Francisco,” Guyton said. “[I have] worked on the strip in Las Vegas, been a restaurant manager and I’ve been managing school nutrition programs for students for 12 years.”
These experiences outside the cafeteria also shaped who he is today. Growing up near Sacramento, Guyton’s journey to nutrition leadership was shaped by diverse experiences.
“After graduation, I drove buses for [UC Davis], which gave me lots of free time to throw dinner parties and develop my interest in food,” Guyton said.
This growing passion later led Guyton to culinary school and various roles in restaurants, before shifting over to managing school nutrition. As the leader of the nutrition committee, Guyton connects the student body to the broader nutrition landscape. Guyton also improved his leadership style over time to better encourage and collaborate with his team, which has paid off in stronger community support.
The sense of responsibility is the main motivator for Guyton and his work.
“I come to work and even if I hadn’t accomplished everything, I can look back and say this is something that wouldn’t have happened if I weren’twasn’t there,” Guyton said.
Guyton’s passion is clear, in and outside the cafeteria.
Looking ahead, Guyton’s goal for the nutrition committee is clear.
“[The goal is to] pilot a student worker program in the service line so students can help serve meals, keep things moving fast to increase the freshness and appeal of the food.”
Guyton’s story is one of dedication, leadership and heartfelt commitment. His work is not only supportsing students’ health but also fosters a stronger school community.
