Policy & Practice | Summer 2026

INDA SCHROEDER has spent more than 40 years serving Arizona’s human services system. As Support Operations Program Administrator for the Division of Benefits and Medical Eligibility at the Arizona Department of Economic Security, her work includes the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program, and Medicaid eligibility. Her commitment to public service has been remarkably enduring. After retiring from state service, Schroeder returned just one week later as a contractor before eventu ally rejoining the agency as a full-time employee. “That’s because I love what I do,” she said. Schroeder currently serves as Chair of the American Association of SNAP Directors (AASD), an APHSA Affinity Group, and its Executive Advisory Council. Following two terms as Chair, she will transition to the role of Immediate Past Chair in September and continue sharing her experi ence with the council. She is also a graduate of the APHSA National Leadership Academy. APHSA is deeply grateful for Schroeder’s unwavering leadership, generous partnership, and steadfast commit ment to the SNAP community. Her candor, wisdom, and care have strengthened AASD and supported state leaders through a period of extraordinary complexity and change. APHSA’s Brandy Whisman, Senior Associate of Policy , and Kara Williams, Policy Associate , recently sat down with Schroeder to reflect on her decades of service, her leadership of the SNAP community, and the lessons she has learned throughout her career. In this interview, Schroeder reflects on her path to public service, the responsibilities facing SNAP leaders today, and the importance of keeping people at the center of human services. The following has been edited for length and clarity. the Center A Conversation with Arizona SNAP Director Linda Schroeder L Schroeder Whisman Williams Keeping People at

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Summer 2026 Policy & Practice