On the evening of September 17th, students and alumni from The American University of Rome’s (AUR) Food Studies MA program were honored to attend an exclusive reception at Villa San Sebastiano, hosted by Jeffrey Prescott, the U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Agencies for Food and Agriculture. The event brought together a wide range of American professionals working in food and agriculture, offering a valuable networking opportunity for emerging talent and seasoned experts.
Ambassador Prescott warmly welcomed the guests and expressed his gratitude for their dedication to upholding the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) mission, which strives to ensure food security for all. In his remarks, Prescott highlighted the vital role the United States plays in promoting global food security, noting that the core mission of FAO—providing regular access to sufficient, high-quality food—aligns closely with American values. On behalf of President Biden and Vice President Harris, he thanked everyone who contributed to this critical effort in Rome.
The event provided AUR Food Studies students with an unparalleled chance to engage with professionals and alumni working in the field. They spent the evening exchanging ideas and experiences with individuals working across various international organizations, including FAO, the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), and prominent non-governmental groups like Slow Grains. These discussions offered a unique window into the diverse career paths available to graduates of AUR’s Food Studies program, ranging from gender equality in food systems to forestry, statistics, and donor relations.
Many students noted the invaluable insight gained from speaking with AUR alumni currently contributing to these important fields. They learned about the practical steps needed to transition from academia to professional roles in food studies and international development. Whether connecting on the courtyards or rooftop terraces of the villa, these conversations expanded their understanding of the impact their future careers could have on global food security.
The American University of Rome extends its gratitude to Ambassador Prescott and the U.S. Mission to the UN Agencies for Food and Agriculture for facilitating such a meaningful and enriching experience. AUR remains committed to preparing the next generation of leaders who will shape the future of food policy and sustainability around the world.
This event highlights the importance of international engagement and hands-on learning experiences offered by AUR’s Food Studies program, strengthening the bond between academia and the real-world challenges of feeding a growing global population.
Thanks to Graduate Student Assistant Nina Adams for contributing to this article.