Food Security Scholars Cohort II had a successful spring semester. As a part of their phase II, each scholar was assigned a mentor and a placement experience with the goal of expanding what they learned throughout phase I.
Our mentorship framework provides scholars the chance to connect with distinguished leaders in their fields of interest. Be it a professor at K-State, a researcher, or a local non-profit leader, scholars develop a relationship with their mentor that cultivates personal and professional development. This component of phase II is critical to ensure that scholars feel supported as they explore their passion for food security further.
Placement experiences allow scholars to explore their interests hands-on with guidance from a local leader involved in the food security mission. Scholars are involved in a variety of placements where they can lean into their curiosity, absorbing new experiences and perspectives they otherwise would not have known. This semester, scholars served with the Riley County Food and Farm Council, the Food Science Institute here at K-State, and with the Food Recovery Network, among many others.
Three scholars, Lynze Kotschegarow, Baylee Wulfkuhle, and Brooklyn Bennett, share their experiences during Phase II. We are proud of their commitment to our program and their willingness to serve the Manhattan community.
Scholar Lynze Kotschegarow, mentored by Dr. David Haukos, a professor of Biology, served the Riley County Food and Farm Council under the advisement of Vickie James and Kate LaRosh. Lynze worked alongside fellow scholars to prepare for the launch of a new food recovery initiative that will serve Manhattan and the surrounding Riley County. This new framework will serve as the connection between volunteers and local food establishments, working to redistribute food and reduce food waste in the community.
“My experience with Food Security Scholars through my placement and mentorship has shown me what I can do to help my community and how I can tie together my academics, career, and mission in food security.”
Scholar Baylee Wulfkuhle, mentored by Erin Bishop, served in various volunteer roles across Manhattan. This past semester, she had the opportunity to pack meals with Konza Student Table, as well as volunteer with HandsOn K-State, serving the community by handing out food at the Mobile Food Distribution. These experiences enriched Baylee’s time as a scholar, having exposed her to the various initiatives focused on combatting food insecurity both on-campus and in our community.
“I have had the opportunity to connect my academics with my experience in Food Security Scholars in an impactful way, by being exposed to various programs around Manhattan, all fighting for the same cause.”
Scholar Brooklynn Bennett, mentored by Katheryn Gregerson, a master’s student in International Rural Development at UC Davis, served Allen County THRIVE through the Alternative Breaks program. Be it building new bike trails for their bike share program or helping to renovate a new recovery house purchased for those in the community struggling with addiction, Brooklyn served with an open heart, learning what it takes to run a local non-profit.
“My experience with Food Security Scholars has been wonderful. Everyone in this cohort is so passionate about what they do, and I am constantly inspired to think big about the future of our global food system.”
