Georgia Colleges Recognized for Commitment to Local Food and Farms

Supporting Regional Farmers Through Campus Dining

February 4, 2025

Four Georgia colleges—Agnes Scott College, Mercer University, Oglethorpe University, and Spelman College—have been honored with the prestigious Farmer Champion Award by Georgia Organics. This recognition highlights their shared commitment to strengthening local food systems and supporting sustainable agriculture. The awards were presented in conjunction with the SOWTH Conference, a gathering of more than 1,400 farmers and food system leaders dedicated to advancing agricultural sustainability in the South.

Leading the Way in Local Food Procurement

Through partnerships with The Georgia ACRE Collective, The Common Market, and other local food initiatives, these institutions have prioritized sourcing fresh, sustainably grown food while fostering meaningful relationships with regional farmers. Their dedication ensures students receive nutritious, locally sourced meals while directly supporting small and mid-sized farms in Georgia.

In 2024, these four colleges collectively made forward commitments to area farmers through us at The Common Market. This initiative has positively impacted numerous regional farmers and producers, strengthening the connection between campus dining programs and local agriculture.

The Impact of Supporting Local Farmers

“We are thrilled to see these institutions recognized for their leadership in local food sourcing,” said Bill Green, The Common Market Southeast Executive Director. “By prioritizing partnerships with regional farmers, they are setting a powerful example of how higher education institutions can contribute to a more resilient local food system.”

The Farmer Champion Award program, now in its fifth year, works to connect local farmers with the food service community, increasing local purchasing and raising awareness about the importance of sustainable food sourcing. These colleges join a growing list of restaurants, caterers and early care and education centers committed to strengthening regional food networks and promoting farm viability.

The Role of Georgia's Agriculture Commissioner

In conjunction with the SOWTH Conference, Rodale Institute and partners hosted a Buyer/Seller Mixer, providing a valuable platform for farmers, food service professionals, and institutional buyers to connect, exchange ideas, and explore new opportunities for local food sourcing. This event fostered meaningful conversations about strengthening farm-to-institution partnerships and served as a backdrop to honor our four partners in campus dining. During the mixer, Bill Green was joined by Georgia’s Agriculture Commissioner Tyler J. Harper to present the Farmer Champion Awards to these institutions, celebrating their commitment to supporting regional farmers.

Looking Ahead

As these colleges continue to lead in sustainable food procurement, their partnerships with farmers and organizations like The Common Market will serve as models for other institutions across the country. By integrating local food sourcing into their dining services, they are ensuring a healthier, more resilient future for students, farmers, and communities alike.

To learn more about the Farmer Champion Program and Georgia Organics, visit farmerchampion.georgiaorganics.org/localsourcing.