Hope Schmidt-Maul

• Led the implementation of the Cooking Matters program to educate individuals and families on stretching food budgets and preparing nutritious meals; ensured compliance with SNAP-Ed, USDA nutrition standards, and Nourish Colorado guidelines.

• Organized and delivered evidence-based food skills classes, including in-person and virtual cooking classes, shopping tours, and live demonstrations at grocery stores, food pantries, and farmers' markets.

• Directed program strategy, led process improvement initiatives, and managed program budgets.

• Recruited, trained, and evaluated staff, interns, and volunteers; promoted ongoing professional development and recognition.

• Maintained accurate program documentation and data reporting using PEARS and Salesforce.

• Adjusted programming based on outcomes and feedback to meet SNAP-Ed goals and Cooking Matters gold standards.

• Advocated for long-term community impact through engagement in policy, systems, and environmental change initiatives.

• Built and sustained strategic partnerships with community organizations and culinary professionals to collectively address food insecurity.

• Reached 1,105 participants directly and supported team efforts reaching 2,537 individuals across three counties in Southern Colorado.

• Achieved measurable outcomes:

• 77% of participants reported increased confidence in feeding their families healthy meals on a budget.

• 83% improved key food skills and decision-making strategies.

• 88% increased consumption of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low- fat dairy.

• Directed daily operations of a busy, full-service restaurant catering to both tourists and locals in a high-traffic area.

• Managed hiring, training, and scheduling for FOH and BOH staff, fostering a positive team culture and high service standards.

• Oversaw budgeting, payroll, inventory, and cost controls to drive efficiency and profitability.

• Ensured compliance with health and safety regulations; consistently passed all inspections.

• Developed and executed seasonal marketing strategies and local partnerships to attract tourist traffic and boost sales.

• Maintained high guest satisfaction through excellent service, staff engagement, and quality food experiences.

• Managed a staff of approximately 10, including scheduling, training, and performance evaluations.

• Conducted field research on small wild birds to assess physical readiness for migration, including measure- ments of wingspan, fat reserves, and skull development.

• Captured and safely handled birds in natural habitats using ethical and approved wildlife research methods.

• Collected and recorded biological data to evaluate the effects of regional wildfire activity on bird health and migratory fitness.

• Analyzed correlations between bird condition and wildfire frequency using ecological and statistical methods.

• Contributed to a completed research study examining the ecological impacts of wildfire on avian species in Colorado.

• Presented research findings to professional audiences to communicate scientific and academic results.

• Assisted clients with daily living tasks, medication reminders, and mobility support. Provided compassionate, in-home care and monitored basic health needs.