USU Sponsors Food Security and Hunger Solutions Symposium

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

The symposium will address food security challenges and feature 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 will be 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 will feature 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.