Food insecurity is a significant yet frequently underestimated concern that affects millions of individuals in the United States.
Researchers have found that food insecurity hasn’t spared our college students. In April 2019, a national survey found that 41% of four-year college students face food insecurity.
"Fighting College Food Insecurity" is an event centered around addressing this lack of access to nutritious food, which adds to college students' stress from academics, work, and personal life. The rising cost of tuition and inadequate financial aid can also lead to limited options for affordable and healthy food.
Students participated in interactive sessions on stress management, budgeting, nutrition, cooking, meal planning, and decision-making tips at this event. It was an excellent opportunity to hear from Drexel faculty and students about how to thrive in college.
This event was held at the Lindy Center for Civic Engagement on November 8th, 2024, from 1 to 4 p.m.
Urban Gardening: Changes from Planting to Plating
Dr. Rosemary Trout- Associate Clinical Professor and Program Director Drexel University, CNHP, Culinary Arts & Food Science
Dr. Trout led the workshop, which explored strategies for urban gardening on Drexel University’s campus. She provided an in-depth analysis of the scientific transformations from planting to plating, highlighting how various processes impact flavor, nutrition, food waste, and accessibility. Additionally, Dr. Trout introduced essential campus resources available to students to access fresh produce.
Rooted in Wellness: The Vital Links Between Nature, Nutrition, and Health
Dr. Brandy-Joe Milliron- PhD, Associate Professor, Health Sciences Department, Faculty Affiliate- Drexel Food Lab, Faculty Affiliate- Drexel Center for Weight, Eating, and Lifestyle Science (WELL Center)
Dr. Milliron presented insights on the link between stress and food insecurity, emphasizing her research on the effects of nature on nutrition and health. She explained how this intricate science can be applied to the experiences of urban college students. Attendees gained valuable knowledge on how nature exposure can be a practical approach to managing stress and addressing food insecurity.
Beyond the Food Pantry: Addressing Food Insecurity Through Systemic Solutions
Natalie Shaak- Associate Director of Communication and Administration, Center for Hunger-Free Communities, Dornsife School of Public Health
This workshop aimed to help students understand the underlying causes of food insecurity. Drawing from her extensive experience working within hunger communities and her familiarity with college life, Natalie Shaak provided insights into the impact of food insecurity on college students. She discussed emergency food options, access to resources, mutual aid initiatives, and proposals for systemic change to address these challenges.
Pros & Cons: Exploring Food Options
Sparsh Gadkari- Nutritions Sciences Undergraduate Student, Founder of Nutrispective, Event Organizer
In this interactive workshop, Sparsh guided students in challenging their preconceived notions about various foods. He introduced a range of often-overlooked options from crucial food groups typically missing in college students’ daily diets. Sparsh discussed different forms of each food group and taught decision-making strategies students can apply when grocery shopping. Participants learned to critically assess nutrition, cost, convenience, availability, portions, and their judgments about food.
The Athlete’s Plate for Food Insecurity
Andrea Grasso Irvine- MS, RD, LDN, Drexel Sports Dietitian, Department of Athletics, ISAK Level 1 Anthropometrist
This segment focused on food insecurity among college athletes, addressing essential topics such as athletic dietary needs, time management, campus resources, meal planning, and budgeting. Registered Sports Dietitian Andrea Irvine and her colleague Conner Rindler presented a practical $65 meal plan specifically designed for college athletes. This plan, developed in partnership with Giant Heirloom Market, a campus grocery store, offers tailored solutions to meet athletes’ nutritional requirements within a budget.
Maximize Your Meals: Making the Most of Your Budget
Dr. Nyree Dardarian- RDN, CSSD, FAND, ISAK-1 Sports Nutrition - Nutrition Professor Drexel University Sports Nutritionist / Assistant Clinical Professor
Dr. Dardarian offered valuable insights on stretching a budget and maximizing one’s environment. Drawing from her extensive experience, which spans from nursing homes to working with the Philadelphia Flyers, she shared practical advice on adapting to diverse settings. Her tips covered eating healthfully at fast-food restaurants, reducing food waste, using affordable cooking appliances, preparing easy recipes, and making intelligent grocery shopping choices.