Erika Christiansen, Provost's Office of Outreach & Engagement, 319-335-0219

Across the university students, faculty, and staff are discussing, researching, and learning about thousands of topics every day. But what if the tables were turned, focusing a thousand different perspectives on a single topic?
Food for Thought, the first University of Iowa theme semester, offers just that opportunity. Throughout the spring 2015 semester, the university community will focus on food as a vital field of study across disciplines ranging from arts and humanities to environmental and health sciences to business and law. Guest lectures, special events, and community partnerships will offer opportunities to expand the discussion locally and statewide.
To build excitement for the coming semester, a number of “appetizer” events are planned this fall, including an art exhibition, a singer/songwriter performance, and a visiting food writer.
In November, two on-campus conferences offer opportunities for faculty, staff, students, and the public to consider a number of questions related to food.
“The door is wide open for our campus and community members to get involved in this ongoing discussion,” says Linda Snetselaar, associate provost for engagement and a Food for Thought steering committee member. “Our hope is that these fall events really whet people’s appetites, spurring their interest and participation throughout the spring semester.”
For more information on how to get involved, visit the Food for Thought website, foodforthought.uiowa.edu/.
Students are encouraged to consider adding a food-related course to their spring class schedule and attending or initiating events throughout the semester. The Provost Office of Outreach and Engagement will offer limited, supplemental funding for students, faculty, and staff planning events in connection with the Food for Thought semester. Additionally, faculty may submit student work related to the Food for Thought theme for inclusion on the web and in other promotional materials.
Some events already planned for the spring semester include original performances, scholarly symposia, and high-profile speakers.
Looking ahead to 2016 and beyond, the UI Theme Semester will continue to support collaboration that brings diverse perspectives to bear on a topic of importance to Iowa and the world. Grounded in the educational mission of the university, the Theme Semester provides opportunities for teaching, engagement, and learning both on campus and throughout the state of Iowa. The events and activities linked to each theme will help the university to forge new partnerships, promote publicly engaged scholarship, and contribute to communities statewide.
Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to attend all UI-sponsored events. If you are a person with a disability who requires a reasonable accommodation in order to attend any of these “appetizer” events, contact the individual listed with each event in advance.