"By giving students the perspective of working as policymakers within a context that demanded both clear communication and instant collaboration, [Model USDA] was an exercise in coordination and coalition-building unique from any other I've participated in throughout my time as a student at ASU."

"In Litchfield Park, with the roar of jet engines flying overhead out of Luke Air Force Base, sits Arizona’s oldest organic farm. It’s hard to miss. At Blue Sky Organic Farms, rows of dark green collards and kales stretch along the roadside, contrasting starkly with the brand new, grey, industrial developments dotting the surrounding area."

"In the intricate web of our food system, there’s a quiet but essential group ensuring our food’s safety, quality, and availability. Enter the Plant Protection and Quarantine (PPQ) program of APHIS (Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service), where officers are on the frontlines of safeguarding agriculture from invasive pests and diseases."

"Teresa Terroba Rivero’s passion for food systems reform is rooted in lived experience. Born in Mexico and raised across different regions of the country, she witnessed the reality of food insecurity firsthand."

"Sprouts Farmers Market is purpose-driven, with the mission of providing wholesome, better-for-you products to their customers. Sprouts is headquartered in Phoenix, with over 400 stores in 23 states nationwide."

"My colleague represented NPR while I took on the role of Fox News. We both had a front-row seat to the negotiations, tensions, and compromises that defined the discussion."

"This exercise provided students with a first-hand look at how politics, negotiation, advocacy, and the media influence the DGAs, and serve as tools to shape policy."

"As the weekend progressed, crisis emerged, and discontent for buzzwords persisted, many students grew more comfortable in their roles."

"Representing different agencies and stakeholders both within the USDA and outside the federal government, participants collaborated to shape a $1.25 billion budget proposal."

"Their ability to step into unfamiliar roles, articulate opposing viewpoints, and engage in constructive dialogue showcased the kind of leadership that will soon be entering the workforce to help create a sustainable food system."

"What color is a lemon when it’s ripe? The answer may surprise you, but it’s actually green, not yellow. This fun fact was just one piece of knowledge shared by Mark Kuechel on a visit to his farm in Yuma, Arizona."

"Students debated the role of alternative proteins, the economic impact of ultra-processed foods on farmers, and the need for policies that balance public health goals with industry realities."