USD Celebrates Launch of the Center for Food Systems Transformation

This past Wednesday, the University of San Diego’s College of Arts and Sciences celebrated the launch of the new Center for Food Systems Transformation (CFST) with an energetic reception. Guests enjoyed delicious vegan refreshments provided by USD Catering in collaboration with local community partners Maya’s Cookies and SPLIT Bakehouse, setting the tone for an evening focused on sustainability and justice in food systems.

Directed by Dr. Aaron Gross, professor of theology and religious studies, CFST addresses the pressing issues of food justice and sustainability. The center aims to advance systemic change by exploring the intersections of food, culture and equity, making it a vital resource for the Torero community and beyond.

CFST has already made significant strides. Last month, the center participated in the 2024 Association for Advancement of Sustainability in Higher Education (AASHE) Expo and Conference in Anaheim, California, where they presented a networking session titled “Values, Culture, and Choice Architecture in Scope 3 Food Emissions.”

Closer to home, the center has been a part of several thought-provoking events on campus. These include two lectures by Knapp Chair David Clough, PhD, which explored critical issues in food systems, and a recent luncheon keynote presented by Calvin University Philosophy Professor Matt Halteman, who shared insights from his latest book, Hungry Beautiful Animals.

The launch reception marked an exciting milestone for CFST, setting the stage for impactful collaborations and initiatives in the coming months. To learn more about the center and its mission, visit www.sandiego.edu/center-food-systems.