The Center for Regional Agriculture, Food, and Transformation at Chatham University works to transform the future of food and agriculture in Western Pennsylvania and beyond. Food systems, which encompass everything that happens from the soil our food is grown in until it reaches our plate and is ultimately disposed of, are the central institutions of our communities, not only because of the number
of people the industry employs, but also because of the central role that food plays in our daily lives - Everybody eats. Vibrant regions are comprised of vibrant communities. We envision a food system that is equitable, fostering fairness and transparency across the value chain. A system that is sustainable, actualizing economic, social, and cultural well-being as part of the food system. And a food system that is inclusive, valuing dignity, sovereignty, and the inherent power of all people. We aim to achieve this mission in concert with community members who live, work, and eat within the region, being intentional to focus our work in areas where there are gaps that we are suited to fill and providing support to other community members and organizations doing the same. We work in four program areas: food system education, research, intervention, and industry support. Within each program area, we take on projects that actualize the power of communities to drive change within our food system as eaters, influencers, food professionals, and food system practitioners. We engage students every step of the way, serving as a training ground for our next generation.
