Spelman College, in partnership with dining partner Bon Appétit, has been recognized with the esteemed Farmer Champion Award by Georgia Organics, celebrating its unwavering commitment to strengthening local food systems and supporting sustainable agriculture. The award was presented in conjunction with the SOWTH Conference, a convening of more than 1,400 farmers and leaders dedicated to building a strong agricultural movement across the South.
Through its partnership with The Georgia ACRE Collective, The Common Market and other local food initiatives, Spelman and Bon Appétit have exemplified leadership in sourcing fresh, sustainably grown food while fostering meaningful relationships with regional farmers. The College was honored with the award for its commitment to serving students local food and its consistent, meaningful purchases of locally sourced foods.
In 2024, Spelman and Bon Appétit made forward commitments to area farmers through the College’s local food distributor, The Common Market. Their purchases supported 9 regional farmers and producers.
“During the request for proposals process, the committee emphasized the importance of selecting a dining partner who values collaboration and prioritizes sourcing food from local farmers to support our community,” said Dr. Darryl Holloman, vice president of student affairs at Spelman. “I am proud that Bon Appétit remains steadfast in that commitment. It is truly an honor to receive the Farmer Champion Award.”
The Farmer Champion Award program, now in its fifth year, works to connect local farmers with the food service community and increase local purchasing. By highlighting businesses that source responsibly, the program aims to raise awareness about local sourcing and help Georgia’s diverse network of small farms thrive. Spelman College joins Agnes Scott College, Mercer University and Oglethorpe University as the inaugural class of college and university awardees. They join a growing list of champions from restaurants, caterers, and early care and education centers working to create a more resilient and equitable food system in Georgia and beyond.
The SOWTH Conference, hosted by Georgia Organics, brings together farmers, educators, policymakers, and food advocates to discuss the future of food in the region. The event serves as a platform for sharing innovative solutions, strengthening partnerships, and celebrating leaders like Spelman College who pave the way for a more sustainable future. Bill Green, Executive Director of The Common Market Southeast, was joined by Georgia’s Agriculture Commissioner Tyler J. Harper to distribute the awards.
For more information on Spelman College’s sustainability initiatives, visit spelman.edu. To learn more about Georgia Organics and the Farmer Champion Program, visit farmerchampion.org.