USU Sponsors Food Security and Hunger Solutions Symposium

Utah State University sponsors the Food Security and Hunger Solutions Symposium, “Breaking the Cycle: Poverty’s Role in Shaping Food Insecurity.” The event is held Thursday, April 17, at the Eccles Conference Center on the USU Logan campus from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.

The symposium addresses food security challenges and features Utah’s leading voices in food security, as well as students and faculty showcasing their research and projects. It is designed to empower and encourage attendees to become invested in Utah’s food security initiatives, foster collaboration, and drive solutions toward achieving a hunger-free future.

Keynote speakers are Luz Escamilla, Utah Senate Minority Leader, and Tim Keady, USU Extension assistant professor of health and wellness. They will begin at 11:15 a.m. in the Ellen Eccles Conference Center Auditorium.

The symposium features a student and faculty poster session, hunger solutions lightning talks, and the NourishTank competition – a SharkTank-inspired event where finalists pitch innovative projects to combat food insecurity for a chance to win $1,000 and sponsorship support.

According to Palak Gupta, USU Extension hunger solutions specialist, addressing food insecurity requires more than just awareness – it demands action.

“We are bringing together Utah’s brightest minds and most passionate advocates to spark meaningful conversations and drive real solutions,” she said. “By fostering dialogue and showcasing innovative solutions, this symposium empowers individuals and organizations to take tangible steps toward addressing food insecurity.”

Those interested are invited to host information booths, present research through posters or lightning talks, or support the symposium through partnerships and donations.

Contact Palak Gupta or Rose Judd-Murray for event information. For partnership opportunities, contact Lea Palmer.

Admission is free, but attendees are encouraged to register in advance to assist with event preparation. For information and to register, visit the symposium’s website.

The symposium is a collaborative effort among USU departments, programs, and partners, including USU Extension, the College of Agriculture and Applied Sciences, the Hunger Solutions Institute, the Center for Anticipatory Intelligence, Create Better Health (Utah SNAP-Ed), the Utah Food Security Council, the Shingo Institute, USU Extension Home and Community Department, and the Heravi Peace Institute.