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The Cornucopia Institute has hired Jennifer Hayden as its Communications and Development Director. Hayden holds a Ph.D. in rural sociology from Penn State, where her doctoral research focused on how farmers make soil management decisions. As a rural sociologist, she is concerned with the structure and history of agriculture and with conducting research with, rather than for, farmers.
The Cornucopia Institute is a national non-profit organization, based in Wisconsin, engaged in research and education activities concerning farming and food policy. Cornucopia has earned a reputation as a watchdog over corporate and governmental activities involved with organic food and agriculture. One of Cornucopia’s founding advisors was the late renowned rural sociologist Fred Buttel.
Hayden’s research interests dovetail with her experience in non-profit development and communications, helping to tell the story of the changing landscape of organic agriculture, while ensuring that organic farmers and eaters have the information, networks and support needed to help uphold the integrity of the organic standards.
“I’m excited to be working with Cornucopia because they work to unite solid research with farmer and consumer action to uphold the original spirit and intent of organic agriculture as a true alternative to the conventional model that has devastated landscapes and rural economies,” Hayden says.
Her interest in agricultural issues stems from a deep concern for the relationship between soil health, environmental health and human health. In addition to her academic work at Penn State, Hayden holds an MSc from Oxford University in human geography, where she studied the interconnection between local and global food systems as well as how consumer-members experience CSAs.
Hayden’s prior experience includes consulting and development work for various clients, including organic pioneer Rodale Institute, and Garrison Institute’s Climate, Mind and Behavior program.
“We are very pleased that Jennifer has joined our staff at Cornucopia,” says Will Fantle, the organization’s Codirector. “She brings a sharp mind and strong sense of commitment to issues impacting environmental sustainability, the quality of life in rural America, and the good food movement in general.”
