UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — The Sustainable Food Systems Network at Penn State will host the first Food Justice Summit from 4 to 7 p.m. Thursday, Feb. 13, in Heritage Hall at the HUB-Robeson Center.
The summit will provide students with an opportunity to learn about food justice, engage in collaborative discussions, and develop action-oriented solutions to address food insecurity within the Penn State community.
The event will feature lightning talks from student leaders, a stakeholder panel with Penn State administrators, small-group brainstorming sessions, and hands-on workshops. The schedule is as follows:
- 4-4:30 p.m. — Introductions and student lightning talks
- 4:45-5:30 p.m. — Stakeholder panel discussion with Penn State staff
- 5:40-6:10 p.m. — Small-group brainstorming on future initiatives
- 6:10-7 p.m. — Action-based workshops
Taproot Kitchen, a local culinary venture specializing in artisan dishes made with unique ingredients, will cater the event.
“We want students, faculty and staff to walk away feeling supported and empowered, knowing that this issue is a priority that will continue to be addressed,” said Sylvie Alexander, Student Farm Club food justice project team lead. “This summit offers an opportunity to find pathways for engaging in this work. This will be the first Food Justice Summit, but not the last.”
Organizers aim to empower students to share their perspectives, develop action plans, and build connections with key individuals and organizations working on food justice initiatives at Penn State.
“This summit is a powerful reminder that our young leaders are not just the future — they are a present force for change,” said Andrea Dowhower, vice president for Student Affairs. “As the need to address food injustice grows, students’ passion and action are paving the way for a more equitable and sustainable food system for all.”
For more information, visit the Student Farm website. Questions can be directed to Leslie Pillen at lrp143@psu.edu. Parking is available in the HUB parking deck at an hourly rate.
About the Sustainable Food Systems Network at Penn State
The Sustainable Food Systems Network includes the Dr. Keiko Miwa Ross Student Farm, the Student Farm Club, the Food Recovery Network, the intercollege Food Systems minor, and course-client collaborations. The program provides hands-on learning experiences, enhances students’ knowledge of sustainable food systems and contributes to the broader Penn State and local communities.