Food as a Public Good: Agriculture’s Role in Strengthening Communities

9:30 a.m. - 10:20 p.m., Thursday, October 1, 2026
Live Zoom Webinar

Agriculture is not only an industry, but an essential civic infrastructure for communities across the world. Food systems influence public health, economic stability, education, and democratic engagement. Examining agriculture through the lens of public affairs, it highlights how producers, policymakers, researchers, and community leaders share responsibility for building resilience and equitable food systems. Who benefits from and who is left out of our current food systems? How can the agriculture industry intentionally build trust with communities? What does shared responsibility look like in food production and access? How do we create systems that reflect “we,” not just “me”?

Presenters

Outreach Coordinator, Full Circle Gardens Jessica Allen

Jessica Allen

Outreach Coordinator, Full Circle Gardens
Ozarks Food Harvest

Program Specialist Arlene Enderton

Arlene Enderton

Program Specialist
Iowa State University Extension & Outreach