The Public Policy Award recognizes a member or congressperson that exhibits strong support for efforts to change/strengthen public policy in the areas of nutrition, food, health care, and public health.
Congresswoman Jen Kiggans represents Virginia’s Second Congressional District in the U.S. House of Representatives, bringing to public service a rare blend of military, clinical, and legislative experience. A board-certified Adult-Geriatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner and former U.S. Navy helicopter pilot, Kiggans has built her career around service, leadership, and advocacy for stronger health care systems.
Her firsthand experience in long-term care, nursing facilities, and private practice informs her policy, priorities, particularly those affecting older adults, patients with chronic conditions, and vulnerable communities. In Congress, she has championed legislation to expand access to medical nutrition therapy and improve care delivery in skilled nursing facilities. She has also recognized National CDM, CFPP Day in the Congressional Record for three consecutive years, underscoring her support for CDM, CFPPs and their contributions to nutrition, food safety, and public health.
In January 2026 Rep. Jen Kiggans and Rep. Debbie Dingell (MI-06) introduced the Enhancing Skilled Nursing Facilities Act to empower nurse practitioners, physician assistants, and clinical nurse specialists to provide certain care in skilled nursing facilities to streamline care, reduce delays, and improve access for patients on Medicare and Medicaid.
From her service in uniform to her work on Capitol Hill, Kiggans has consistently focused on practical, patient-centered solutions that improve quality of life. Her record reflects a sustained commitment to public health, nutrition access, and bipartisan problem-solving—qualities that make her a notable voice in health policy leadership.
