April 9, 2020
How IFSL Broadened Her Approach to Combat Global Hunger and Advanced Her Career
Kristin Harner has spent her whole life in agriculture. She grew up raising pigs on her family’s farm in Minnesota and has dedicated her career to researching, creating educational programming, and communicating about agriculture. After serving as communications director for the Minnesota Farm Bureau for 19 years, Kristin was eager for a chance to grow in her career and leadership skills—and learn more about ending global food insecurity.
She was drawn to the Integrated Food Systems Leadership (IFSL) Program, particularly for its manageable format for working parents and professionals. Since enrolling, Kristin has deepened her understanding of how to address challenges in our global food system—and advanced in her career to become the director of agriculture communication for North Dakota State University. Learn more about Kristin, who also runs a community-supported farm (CSA) with her family while participating in IFSL.
How did you discover the IFSL program, and what compelled you to enroll?
I had been aware of the IFSL program when it launched in 2019, and the idea of a master’s-level program was very intriguing to me. I’ve always been interested in growing in my career and learning, especially about leadership. So when I had a job change this year and one of the program’s advisors, Steve Olson, who is also one of my Minnesota Agriculture and Rural Leadership classmates, suggested I look into the program, it felt like good timing. I also knew it would be a fascinating time in history to do a deep dive into our food system during the COVID-19 pandemic.
How have you applied the learnings or assignments to your work?
My work experiences, especially during the pandemic, have highlighted the challenge of siloed communication within agriculture. IFSL re-emphasized the importance of applying an integrated food systems approach to address the critical issues facing our food system.
The diversity of my cohort has exposed me to different approaches that could be taken to address larger issues too, while also helping me see personal strengths I had taken for granted. Overall, the program has helped me be more introspective about my leadership style. After each of our leadership class guest presenters, I would reflect on my takeaways and note how I could apply them. I continue to reflect on them as it’s so easy to learn in the moment and move on. Reflection is important for personal growth. I also used our assignment "Why would anyone be led by me?" as part of my interview for my current role so they could see if I fit into their work culture.
IFSL demonstrated to potential employers my desire for continual learning and personal growth, and helped me reach my current job as director of agriculture communication for North Dakota State University.
What are you hoping to learn and take away from the program?
I will take away an in-depth knowledge and a broader approach to address global hunger and food insecurity challenges.
My classmates and professors are helping me see the food system from different perspectives, which in turn helps me identify areas where we need stronger communication between production agriculture and the rest of the food chain.
My classmates and professors are helping me see the food system from different perspectives, which in turn helps me identify areas where we need stronger communication between production agriculture and the rest of the food chain. Many communication gaps lead to unproductive outcomes that do not address the larger picture that everyone is working toward: ending global hunger and food insecurity. We are falling short on so many levels, and it is unacceptable if we want to overcome local and world hunger. Former United States Department of Agriculture Secretary Sonny Perdue said it best: “Do right and feed everyone.”
What would you share with another food system professional who’s considering the IFSL program?
The IFSL program is unique; it is like no other in the U.S. I have appreciated the University of Minnesota’s approach to IFSL in harnessing the expertise of three colleges, the College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences, the College of Veterinary Medicine, and the School of Public Health, and setting the program up in a way that’s achievable for a working parent and working professional. I can listen to my courses on walks or on the way to work, and I can work on homework before my kids' activities. IFSL is a great opportunity to grow as a leader and expand your network while learning how to be more impactful in the global food system.
Integrated Food Systems Leadership (IFSL) Program
Designed for professionals interested in accelerating their careers, the IFSL program is a unique, online, graduate certificate program that fosters leadership, collaboration, and innovation across the food system.
Applications are being accepted through July 15, 2021 for the September cohort. Download a program brochure or schedule a consultation call for more information.