Hunger Fighters

The College of Agricultural Sciences will host a prestigious World Food Forum Youth Food Lab, a key initiative of the U.N. Food and Agriculture Organization to address global food security and climate change. This lab, announced at the World Food Forum in Rome last October, joins a global network that spans Europe, Asia and South America.

"There is perhaps no greater challenge than ensuring everyone, regardless of where they live or their circumstances, has access to nutritious food," said Dean Troy Ott. "As we work toward making that a reality, we must empower young people — tomorrow's leaders — to actively pursue sustainable solutions. Our college is honored to lead this global initiative in North America; it speaks to the quality and reputation of our faculty, students and staff and their commitment to uplifting communities worldwide."

Ott emphasized that Penn State's distinction as the U.S. site underscores the college's commitment to solving global challenges such as hunger and climate change. He added that this recognition speaks to the University's reputation and leadership in engaging the next generation to tackle the world's most pressing issues.

Maria Spencer, John and Patty Warehime Entrepreneur in Residence, will lead the lab, housed in the Department of Agricultural Economics, Sociology, and Education, with support from Ag Sciences Global, the Office for Research and Graduate Education, the Office of Entrepreneurship and Innovation, and the Penn State Learning Factory. Penn State's Global Teach Ag Network, a program connecting educators with international experts to tackle agricultural challenges, helped secure this selection.

Activities will include competitions, startup challenges and expert-led master classes.

Spencer credited Penn State's extensive agricultural research portfolio and exceptional agricultural and extension education programs as key factors in its selection.

"The College of Agricultural Sciences understands that food security is integral to global security," she said. "We excel in agricultural research and education, and our core values align with the World Food Forum's mission to develop bold, actionable solutions that ensure access to healthy, sustainable food for all." —Amy Duke

Faculty and students who were present for the World Food Day Global Ceremony were Daniel Foster, associate professor of agricultural and extension education and co-founder of the Global Teach Ag Network at Penn State; Ram Neupane, doctoral student; Melanie Foster, associate teaching professor of international agriculture and co-founder of the Global Teach Ag Network; Nina Coates, program and project management senior consultant, the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations; Jett Kelly, undergraduate student; Mark Gagnon, Harbaugh Entrepreneur and Innovation Faculty Scholar; Xialing Zhao, doctoral student; Noel Habashy, associate teaching professor and coordinator for the international agriculture minor; and Raymond Yan, undergraduate student.