Kansas State University

Food Security Scholars applications open

Submitted by Michaela Forst

Applications for the inaugural cohort of Food Security Scholars are due by 11:59 p.m. Feb. 6. Apply for the program online. 

The Food Security Scholars is a collaborative leadership development program for K-State students who are passionate about addressing food insecurity and the poverty cycle. Housed in the Staley School of Leadership Studies, Food Security Scholars is a two-phase program where a cohort of scholars undergoes a variety of experiences in food security. 

Phase I includes guided learning, community groups and roundtable discussion with the goal of increasing awareness of food insecurity. Phase II is focused on experiential learning through tours and volunteer activities.

In Phase I, scholars will:

• Engage in an eight-week program from March to May.
• Assemble for 90-minute periods once per week for cohort activities.
• Be connected to peers who lead community group reflections outside of program coursework.
• Interact with the Board of Stakeholders made up of local leaders in food security, research and volunteerism through roundtable discussions, forums and volunteer opportunities. 

In Phase II, scholars:

• Meet every other week throughout the semester to reflect on experiences with their cohort.
• Engage in hands-on learning such as volunteering, service learning and witnessing food insecure communities. 
• Connect with professionals in the food security realm in private, public and nonprofit sectors including recent K-State Alumni.
• invest in food security efforts through research, volunteerism and leadership. 

After Phase II, scholars may:

• Lead Food Security Scholars as a member of the Student Advisory Leadership Team.
• Apply for undergraduate research experiences. 
• Connect with Board of Stakeholders for opportunities in food security experiences.
• Utilize skills and network gained from Food Security Scholars to pursue personal projects.

Qualifications and selections:

• Candidates must have two semesters of college remaining and be in good standing with Kansas State University.
• No other GPA, age, grade, major or graduate/undergraduate requirements exist.
• Selection process includes application and interview round.
• Candidates who move to the interview round will participate in two-on-ones, walk and talks and group discussions Feb. 14. 

Email foodsecurityscholars@k-state.edu with any questions. Follow @ksu_fss on Instagram for updates.