Attendees: Shannon Caravello, Jennifer Mitchel, Tanzina Ahmed, Kathy Giaimo, Mary Lou Fierle, Gail Levine, Maya Stansberry
Maya Stansberry who has recently taken over the position of administrator of the KCC Farm gave an update on the farm. She discussed that the method of farm produce distribution during the Pandemic which was been done in partnership with Brooklyn Packers who distributed organized the distribution from a restaurant in central Brooklyn. At this time produce distribution has concluded as the farm is now in the process of being prepared for the winter. Maya shared that she has assumed the title of farm administrator in the wake of both Glenda Ullauri, farm educator and Cris Izaguirre, farm manager resigning from their positions. She shared that as always staffing and funding continue to be issues not only in maintaining the farm and growing produce for student consumption but also in terms of effectively integrating farm activities into course curricula and supporting faculty research. Kathy Giaimo reminded everyone that KCC farm or food related research would be excellent for PSC/CUNY Grant funding.
FIG participants will recommend students for future student aide positions at the KCC farm and Shannon suggested that when feasible FIG participants offer to volunteer on the farm.
A discussion ensued regarding the proposal of an Urban Agriculture concentration/major. Gail Levine suggested Dr. Marion Nestle of NYU’s Nutrition, Food Studies and Public Health major as a possible resource in developing a curriculum. Amanda Kalin of Academic Affairs and Micah Griffin director of Allied Health Programs were both recommended as on campus resources to further this discussion.
Dr. Levine described and Tree Pit beautification program through East NY Farm and suggested that this activity may be a possible student activity in the future, probably post pandemic. It was also suggested that this may be coordinated in some way via NY Parks Green Thumb Education division.
Shannon reminded participants that one function of the FIG is to promote farm and food related issues into curricula and pedagogy.
A Spring Semester 2021 event sponsored by the Farm Food and Health FIG was discussed with an emphasis on the renewal and stress relieving qualities of nature. Dr. Levine suggested the name “Grow Your Spirit” which may highlight faculty/staff and perhaps student initiatives with seed starting, garden planning and other nature related Spring activities.
The next Farm Food and Health FIG meeting will be on November 24, 2020.
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