Meet a Member: Michael Pereira, SNA
Meet PAR member Michael Pereira, CAE, Marketing Manager for the School Nutrition Association.
What do you find most rewarding about your work in associations?
It’s no surprise that one of the most rewarding aspects of working in associations is the ability to have a direct impact on the communities we serve - by fostering connections, developing valuable resources, and using our expertise to advocate for and elevate the interests of our members. And that extends beyond just the work I do in my organization. In my volunteering role as the Chair of the ASAE YPAC, as a Board Member of Association Latinos, and in many other leadership roles, I’ve found the most rewarding part to be the opportunity to contribute to a larger mission, collaborate with passionate professionals, and help create spaces where others feel seen and supported.
As the Marketing Manager for the School Nutrition Association, I have the opportunity to lead projects that make a big, direct impact on the lives of millions of kids. And honestly, I can’t think of a better reward than that. The collective effort of our organization - combined with the passion and commitment of our members - keeps us motivated and inspired to do our best work. That’s what I love most about the association industry: our work has purpose. The work we do as association professionals matters.
What is a recent project or initiative that you're especially proud of?
I have the privilege of leading a project that makes me proud just to be part of it: a national campaign for the School Nutrition Association that brings light to the importance and benefits of school meals. This initiative isn’t just about awareness. It’s about breaking the stigma that still exists, expanding school meal participation, and ensuring students have access to nutritious meals.
Beyond awareness, this campaign allows me to create resources that directly impact schools and districts, especially those that lack the staff, knowledge, or capacity to develop marketing efforts on their own. It’s more than just launching a campaign; it’s about empowering schools with the tools they need to advocate for their students.
This project has been an exciting journey, bringing together people from different areas, all driven by the same purpose. Seeing everyone’s creativity, expertise, and passion come together to build something truly impactful has been one of the most fulfilling aspects of my work. And that’s why I’m especially proud of it - not just because it’s a successful initiative, but because it has the potential to change lives and support a greater cause.
If you weren’t working in associations, what other career could you see yourself pursuing?
Before stepping into the association world, I worked in the private sector in the aviation industry, overseeing exportation and importation processes. That experience taught me a lot about process improvement - something that really motivated me. Just like in marketing, there was an opportunity to apply creative thinking - but from a completely different angle. Finding ways to optimize workflows, streamline operations, and solve logistical challenges kept me engaged, and I could definitely see myself back in that space. (And let me tell you, the benefits of flying for free weren’t bad either!)
But if I had to pick something completely different, I could see myself exploring a career as a fitness coach. I’ve always admired fitness professionals who are dedicated to helping others grow, push their limits, and reach their goals. There’s something inspiring about seeing someone commit to their progress and knowing you played a part in that journey.
If you could instantly acquire a new skill or hobby, what would it be?
If I could wake up tomorrow with a new skill, I’d love to be able to paint (but like, really paint). During the pandemic, I got curious and started experimenting with watercolors and it was something that helped me relax and disconnect, and I quickly realized how much I enjoyed the process. The only problem? My hands didn’t exactly get the memo! Let’s just say my “art” looked more like abstract experiments than masterpieces. Still, there’s something amazing about being able to translate emotions and ideas onto a blank canvas - and I admire those who can do it effortlessly.
If you could live anywhere in the world for one year, where would it be and what would you do?
Being from Brazil and having had the opportunity to explore different countries before moving to the U.S., I’ve always valued learning different languages, opening our minds to different cultures, and connecting with people. So if I had the chance to live anywhere for a year, I would become a volunteer traveler. Exploring places in Central America (especially Costa Rica) or South Africa. It must be such a rewarding experience to dedicate our time to wildlife conservation efforts or support local communities in different capacities - whether through teaching, mentoring kids, or lending a hand where it’s needed most. There’s something incredibly fulfilling about giving back while immersing yourself in a new culture. And that is something that the association community taught me, the joy you get from volunteering and supporting a cause.
Meet PAR Member Organization: SNA
The School Nutrition Association (SNA) is a national, nonprofit professional organization representing 50,000 members who provide high-quality, low-cost meals to students across the country. Recognized as the authority on school nutrition, SNA has been advancing the availability, quality and acceptance of school nutrition programs as an integral part of education since 1946.