Eat With Understanding: A UM Student Guide to Food Systems

James Deacon et al.
Fri, 17 Apr 2026 10:40:00 PDT

The industrialized food system creates environmental harm, reduces food sovereignty, and contributes to growing food insecurity – which is oftentimes overlooked in higher education. To address this gap, our project examines how access to sustainable food education and campus-community partnerships can improve well-being and informed decision making amongst students at the University of Montana. This collaborative project has led us to partner with UM Wellness, PEAS Farm, the Missoula Food Bank, and the Big Sky Culinary Institute. Our research includes applied learning with these organizations by hosting a variety of speaker series presentations and coordinating several workshops. Quantitative and qualitative data have been collected through anonymous surveys administered at Wellness Wednesday tabling events, before and after speaker sessions, and at our hands-on workshop. These surveys assessed baseline student experiences with food access, changes in knowledge and attitudes, and anticipated shifts in food-related behaviors. Furthermore, we have scheduled partner interviews, and a collaborative community meeting, to capture organizational perspectives and how their connectivity could lead to a more robust localized food system. By connecting students with the diversity of our food system, emphasizing sustainability, culture, and well-being, our project seeks to deepen food literacy, promote equitable food environments, and strengthen local networks that support student success beyond the classroom.