New Hampshire Partners in Education, a nonprofit organization promoting the efforts of volunteers and outside groups that work with schools, has honored UNH Cooperative Extension's Awilda Muniz with one of its 2007 Gold Circle awards.

Muniz, Hillsborough County program associate with the Nutrition Connections program, was recognized for her nutrition education work with third graders at the Ledge Street School in Nashua. Assistant Principal Pilar Peigh nominated Muniz for the award.

Ledge School teacher Bonnie Blaisdell said, "Awilda's classes were always so motivating to the students. She used hands-on and fun materials. The students enjoyed all the healthy snacks she made with them. She stressed the importance of eating healthy food, and I’ve noticed this starting to make a difference in their choice of snacks. All of Awilda’s lessons really involved the students. She made learning about nutrition and taking care of our bodies fun. We are looking forward to working with her again." Congratulations, Awilda!