Campus Organization Receives $5 Million to Improve Indian Country's Food Access
IFAI recently celebrated its impact on Indian Country through the last decade during IFAI's 10 Year Symposium.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture recently announced 12 finalists for the USDA Regional Food Business Centers, including one tribally-serving center.
The Indigenous Food and Agriculture Initiative at the U of A School of Law looks forward to working with the Intertribal Agriculture Council, Akiptan and the Indian Land Tenure Foundation, as well as the Native American Agriculture Fund as a philanthropic partner, to address Indian Country food security and access through this tribally-serving center.
"The National Intertribal Food Business Center is a historic investment in improving Indian Country's food security and access while also supporting tribal economic development through food and agriculture," said Carly Griffith Hotvedt, IFAI associate executive director. "Under the leadership of our executive director, Erin Parker, IFAI is grateful for the opportunity to collaboratewith IAC and other partners on this project."
IFAI will provide strategic legal analysis, policy research and educational resources to assist with the formation and implantation of the National Intertribal Food Business Center.
"With over 35 years of experience in food and business development work, IAC is excited about this opportunity to expand access to Native food producers and tribal food systems that empower self-determination in Indian Country,"said Kari Jo Lawrence, executive director of the Intertribal Agriculture Council. "Our collaboration with the USDA will heal broken food systems and build sustainable economic growth for our communities."
This project aligns with IFAI's mission to enhance the health and wellness of tribal communities by advancing healthy food systems, diversified economic development and cultural food traditions.
In 2013, IFAI formed within the U of A School of Law to fill an unmet need in Indian Country, serving tribes, tribal producers and tribal citizens with food and agriculture policy and legal research, educational programs and more.
"We are very proud of IFAI's impactful role in assisting in the formation of the National Intertribal Food Business Center," said Cynthia Nance, U of A School of Law dean and Nathan G. Gordon professor. "IFAI's nationally recognized expertise and service is a reflection of our mission as a land grant institution."
Contacts
Mary Belle Zook, communications director
School of Law
580-732-0109,
mzook@uark.edu
Headlines
Peter Ungar Chosen as Member of the National Academy of Sciences
A distinguished professor of anthropology and director of environmental dynamics, Ungar is the first U of A faculty member to be elected to the prestigious Academy.
Ag Technology Students Visit Greenway Equipment, Learn About Advances in Machinery
Members of the U of A's Agricultural Systems and Technology Club recently spent a day at the Greenway Technology Farm in Newport to learn about advances featured in John Deere tractors and machinery.
College of Education and Health Professions WE CARE Everywhere Campaign Kicks Off This Summer
Retractable scroll banners with the phrase "WE CARE Everywhere" are small enough to fit any suitcase and just waiting for your chance to shine in social media posts throughout the summer.
Staff Senators for 2024-25 Elected
Twelve newly elected staff members will begin serving the U of A staff community for three-year terms beginning July 1 on the university's Staff Senate.
Matlock Briefs Congressional Staff Regarding Crop Sustainability Research
Professor Marty Matlock briefed U.S. House of Representative and Senate staff members on research conducted by the U of A regarding the effects of management practices on crop sustainability.