When you meet Jack Bobo, definitely bring up Star Wars. This fun-loving expert once helped create the official seven forms of lightsaber combat. A friend at Lucasfilm knew about Bobo’s passion for fencing and reached out for his expertise. He even has a spot on Wookieepedia, which he chuckles about.
But Bobo’s real adventure is right on campus as the first executive director of the UCLA Rothman Family Institute for Food Studies (RFI). Founded by the Rothman family, who have been supporting UCLA for over 90 years, the RFI is designed to be a hub for everything related to food, from science to education and innovation.
Bobo sees food as a way to unite people. “Food brings people together and breaks down barriers,” he says. It’s a powerful tool that can help build connections beyond just sharing a meal.
Most recently, Bobo was the director of the University of Nottingham’s Food Systems Institute in the U.K. His career has taken him to nearly 60 countries as a senior advisor for global food policy at the U.S. State Department. He even wrote the 2021 book Why Smart People Make Bad Food Choices after volunteering with the Peace Corps in Central Africa.
His interest in food started in his childhood in Indiana. His family had a large garden where they grew and canned a wide variety of fruits and vegetables. While he didn’t enjoy working in the garden at the time, he gained a deep appreciation for the effort it takes to produce food.
Now, as Bobo leads the RFI, he plans to tap into L.A.’s vibrant food scene. This city is known for its diverse culinary culture, which creates endless possibilities for exploration and study.
Though he focuses on food, Bobo still has a playful side. He admires Han Solo for his problem-solving creativity. “The best way to tackle challenges, whether they are on Earth or in a galaxy far, far away, is to think outside the box,” he jokes.
Jack Bobo’s journey is a blend of fun and purpose, combining his passion for food and his desire to foster connections across the globe. With his background and vision, he aims to make the UCLA RFI a leader in food studies. Food isn’t just a necessity; it’s a way to connect and engage with the world.
Check out this related article: Combating Food Insecurity in Northeast Wisconsin: How Civic Media is Making a Difference
Source linkUCLA Magazine, Quick Takes, food
