Through the Lunchbox series, members from across the campus talk to the participants about the interconnectivity between food, science, and culture, and how food shapes our individual experiences.

In 2021, the DEI Task Force established the Lunchbox seminar series with the sponsorship of the Office of the Vice Chancellor for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. In partnership with Bevier Café, the seminar series also featured a dish for every talk. The organizers wanted to create stronger bonds across the campus and the local community and provide opportunities for open dialogue between the researchers and members of the public, adding increased familiarity with others’ perspectives and worldviews, in addition to the educational value.

Who can attend?

The Lunchbox seminars are free and open to all University of Illinois faculty, staff and students.

How can I find the next seminar?

There are 3 seminars in the spring and in the fall. Please check the DEI calendar of events. There will also be posters up around the IGB buildings as well as social media posts on Instagram, X and Facebook @IGBIllinois.

Do I have to register to attend?

Yes. The food is tailored by campus chefs at Bevier Café to pair with the lecture so registration is required. 

Who are the sponsors?

The Lunchbox Series is co-sponsored by the DEI Task Force, along with other campus units. Some of our primary sponsorships have come from Cancer Center at Illinois, Personalized Nutrition Initiative (PNI), and the Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition (FSHN). We have also received sponsorship from industry partners such as Archer Daniels Midland (ADM).