August 31, 2020
Cohort Spotlight: Sara Denzer
Putting Learnings into Action During Challenging Times
It is often said that we learn the most during challenging times. For the inaugural cohort of the IFSL program, they were able to apply their newly gained knowledge and skills during one of the most challenging times in recent history when COVID-19 caused disruption across our global food system.
We sat down with IFSL program cohort member Sara Denzer, who is the Community Partnership Coordinator at Second Harvest Heartland food bank. Sara shared with us how the pandemic tested her resilience during challenging times and how her program learnings inspired her to present new ideas within her organization.
Can you tell us why you chose to enroll in the IFSL program?
In the summer of 2019, I read an article in the Minneapolis/St. Paul Star Tribune about ‘ugly’ produce and food waste, and it included a quote from Dr. Jennifer van de Ligt. When I read that she was the director of a food system and leadership graduate-certificate program right here in my backyard, it prompted me to research the program.
I’ve always had a curiosity for learning, which has sparked me to keep my education going.
The IFSL program really piqued my interest because of the program’s focus to empower food system leaders to think in new ways and develop a leadership mindset.
How have your learnings from the IFSL program supported your role and responsibilities at Second Harvest Heartland food bank while navigating during COVID-19?
One aspect of the IFSL program that I’m really pleased with is the focus and personal study of our individual leadership styles. Through various assignments and assessments, I was able to learn more about my leadership strengths. Because of COVD-19, I’m able to see how resilient our food bank network is to support everyone, from families in need to farmers to other food banks.
Additionally, at the beginning of the program we learned about the supply chain, which has had me thinking about how at Second Harvest Heartland we could utilize our truck network so that they’re never empty. Pre-COVID-19, we also discussed supply chain disruptions to get us thinking about the many implications and players involved across the food system to solve those problems. When the pandemic took its toll on our food system in March, we were able to discuss and learn from the real-time supply chain disruptions. This expanded knowledge helped me think differently about how to address supply challenges in my role at the food bank.
Were there any learnings from the IFSL program that you were able to put into action during the pandemic?
At Second Harvest Heartland food bank, I’m part of the team that works on a diet-specific food box called ‘FOODRx.’ These are food boxes that are curated with items for those that have diabetes or hypertension, for example. When the pandemic hit, we weren’t able to easily find specific items for the FOODRx boxes, so I had to quickly learn myself, and educate those we support, on how to find different sources for certain items and new ways for storage and transportation.
Thanks to my learnings from IFSL, I’ve been challenged to think outside the box, and the program has given me confidence to sell my ideas to my team. For my IFSL capstone project, I focused on creating a locally sourced produce option for the FOODRx food box. It would be my dream to see this realized at the food bank and a great option for those in need, while also supporting community agriculture.
Is there anything else you'd like to share with food professionals who are considering the IFSL program?
For anyone considering the program, I’d say that you’ll be sure to learn so many aspects of our global food system, and develop personal leadership skills and styles, but you’ll also build a network with other food professionals.
The IFSL program is so unique – it hasn’t felt like school – it’s been a real-time learning experience.
Because everyone in the cohort has different roles in various industries across the food system, we were able to come together to learn from and be inspired by each other, which has been great, particularly in a year like 2020.
Integrated Food Systems Leadership (IFSL) Program
Designed for working professionals, the IFSL program is a unique graduate certificate program that fosters leadership, collaboration, and innovation across the food system. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Download a program brochure or schedule a consultation call for more information.