The Quaker Valley School Board unanimously approved the appointment of Ava Elliott as the new Director of Food Services on Tuesday, September 16, 2025.
Elliott brings both professional and educational expertise to this role, having earned a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition Science and a Master of Science in Nutrition and Dietetics from the University of Pittsburgh. She has already served Quaker Valley in an interim capacity from October 2023 to February 2024, overseeing operations and gaining valuable experience within the District’s food service program. Additionally, Elliott interned under previous Director of Food Services, Dr. Carla Escribano.
Most recently, Elliott has worked as the Lead Registered Dietitian at Case Specific Nutrition in Pittsburgh, where she provided individualized nutrition care, developed customized meal plans, and mentored junior staff. Her career also includes a variety of roles in clinical, community, and food service nutrition, including work with Allegheny Health Network, the Sarah Heinz House, and the University of Pittsburgh’s Community Nutrition programs
Quaker Valley Superintendent Dr. Tammy Andreyko welcomed Elliott back to the District: “We are delighted to welcome Ava back to Quaker Valley in this leadership role. Her strong background in nutrition, combined with her previous experience serving our schools, makes her an outstanding choice to lead Food Services. Ava brings both passion and vision, and we look forward to the positive impact she will make on our students and community.”
Elliott expressed her enthusiasm for returning to Quaker Valley: “I am honored to step into the role of Director of Food Services. I have always hoped that my work would lead me to working in a K-12 public school. I look forward to continuing to support our students’ health and well-being by providing nutritious meals and fostering a positive relationship with food across all grade levels.”
Elliott has also been recognized for her leadership in the field, including receiving the 2023 Pittsburgh Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Leadership Development Award and being named the Outstanding Dietetics Student of the Year by the Pennsylvania Academy of Nutrition & Dietetics in 2023.