Dining leaders honored for outstanding commitment

The individual award recipients for 2026 were: 

Patridge, retired director of dining services at The University of Alabama and past chairperson of NACUFS, received the Lichtenfelt Award. Selected by the association's chairperson, the award honors an individual who has provided outstanding contributions to NACUFS at the national level. 

“This is just such a pleasure and a delight, and I’m so appreciative for the recognition, but we all know that no achievement, award or recognition is achieved alone,” Patridge said. “This association has contributed to me personally and professionally, and I am so grateful for everyone who came before me and who brought me to this point.”  

Leitner, founder and CEO of Touchwork, received the Van Hook Industry Award, which honors an industry member who has provided educational support, product innovation, and outstanding service to the association. 

“Thank you to NACUFS and to all the schools we have worked with over the past 15 years,” Leitner said. “It’s been an amazing journey we’ve been on. We’ve met so many wonderful people over the years. I’d like to really thank you for all your support and everything that we’ve also learned from you, sharing the journey of technology and how you can better enhance the customer experience.” 

Wandel, retired residential dining director at Penn State University, received the Prentkowski Distinguished Lifetime Member Award. Nominated by peers and colleagues, the award honors retired leaders in the field who have supported the betterment of college and university foodservices. 

Wandel explained how NACUFS conferences and the relationships she built with fellow members played a pivotal role in her first promotion and continued professional success.  

“One of the greatest things about NACUFS is that folks are willing—and eager—to share their ideas with others,” she said. “It isn't a competition where you keep your ideas secret. Instead, you help others who are dealing with the same types of challenges or frustrations. That's one of the things I liked most about NACUFS, and I really enjoyed participating and being involved with NACUFS for 34 years.”  

Vanagten, executive chef at the University of California, Merced, was named the first recipient of the Paul Fairbrook Spirit of Service Award. New this year, the award honors managers, supervisors and staff working in campus dining units who go above and beyond to make a profound impact on their communities. It was created in memory of Paul Fairbrook, a founding member of NACUFS whose compassion and leadership profoundly impacted collegiate foodservice. 

“Mitchell demonstrates what it means to make service more than an expectation—it is part of the culture he creates every day,” said Christopher Toote, Ph.D., D.Min., MBA, immediate past chairperson of the NACUFS Board of Trustees and executive director of dining services at the University of Chicago. “Through his commitment to students, colleagues and the broader community, he has transformed campus dining into a platform for education, mentorship and meaningful change. His humility, generosity and compassion make him an exceptional first recipient of an award honoring Paul Fairbrook’s enduring legacy.” 

On his campus, Vanagten has created opportunities for students to learn and grow beyond the classroom while advancing food security, sustainability and experiential learning. His work has supported future hospitality leaders, strengthened community partnerships and benefited local nonprofits and food pantries. He was also recognized for mentoring his team, celebrating others and leading with humility and generosity. 

Seven additional dining professionals were recognized as nominees for the 2026 Paul Fairbrook Award for their service, commitment and leadership: 

The Fairbrook Spirit of Service Award is sponsored by the NACUFS Foundation, which supports educational programming and resources for collegiate dining professionals.