Northern Michigan University is buzzing this week with Peak25, a conference aimed at professional growth, research, and teamwork. It’s a great opportunity for learning and sharing ideas.
This Tuesday, the spotlight was on Bryan Flower and Courtney Gallaher from Northern Illinois University. They delivered an inspiring keynote at the Forest Roberts Theatre, focusing on the concept of an edible campus.
Flower discussed transforming green spaces on campus into areas where food can be grown. “We aim to take back these manicured areas and turn them into productive spaces for our students and the local community,” he explained. The goal is not just to cultivate food but to supply it to campus dining.
Flower, who has experience as a chef around the globe, has been with NIU for ten years. He and his wife even purchased a nearby farm to better understand their food sources. For Flower, the edible campus initiative is deeply personal. As a parent, he feels it’s crucial to provide children with quality food and educate them about where it comes from. “If we engage kids now, it will help them make better choices in the future,” he said.
After the keynote, Flower and Gallaher headed to the Hedgcock Atrium for a student panel discussion. NMU students shared their sustainability projects and participated in a Q&A session. Among them was Jordis Numinen, a sophomore from Keweenaw Bay Ojibwa Community College. She expressed her enthusiasm for learning about local resources. “We’re new to this food sovereignty and sustainability project, and this summit has taught us a lot,” she said.
The NMU panelists, involved in various sustainability groups, have passions that often stem from their families. Graduate student Makaylee Kuhn mentioned her upbringing, saying, “My mom and grandma instilled this love for nature in me. Here at Northern, many students share that same drive to protect our environment and make a difference.”
The Peak25 conference will run through Friday, offering more opportunities for discussion and exploration in sustainable practices. For more details, you can check the schedule online.
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