AUGUSTA, Ga. () – Students and staff came together to surprise and honor a woman who’s been feeding hearts and filling bellies for years.

Vonceil Butler has worked in the kitchen at Childcare Network on Wylds Road for 25 years. On Friday, her colleagues and the kids celebrated her with cake, a banner and lots of hugs.

She was declared a “School Lunch Hero” for National School Lunch Hero Day, recognized on May 2.

“It’s just a shocking to me. I’m very surprised. I’m happy. I’m overwhelmed. And I’m very joyful today,” said Vonceil Butler, a cook and teacher. “I just thank God and thank my team and childcare network and all the team people that works here with me.”

“She is such a dedicated worker and she deserves it,” said Katina Mathic, director of Childcare Network Family. “She’s been serving our children for so many years, feeding them a hearty nutritionist meal.”

Congratulations, Vonceil!

Photojournalist credit: Dania Alawir