Dr. Becky Sartini, Associate Dean for Academic Programs in the College of the Environment and Life Sciences, recently completed the Food Systems Leadership Institute (FSLI), a prestigious program hosted by the Association of Public and Land-Grant Universities.

A two-year program, FSLI is designed to prepare exceptional leaders to navigate the complexities of 21st century global food systems. Fellows participate in three immersive week-long residential sessions, receive personalized coaching and mentoring, and complete hands-on leadership projects that translate learning into action. 

FSLI Fellows come from across higher education, government, NGOs, and industry, typically serving as provosts, deans, directors, and senior administrators. By the end of the program, they are prepared to advocate for innovative solutions, build cross-sector collaborations, and approach food systems challenges from an integrated perspective that foster tangible impacts on community health, environmental sustainability, and economic and societal well-being.

The program, supported by the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, is led by North Carolina State University in partnership with Ohio State University and Cal Poly San Luis Obispo.

Sartini is only the second representative from URI to graduate from the institute.