The Transportation Engineering Seminar Series, jointly hosted by the Nebraska Transportation Center and the UNL Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, will feature a presentation titled "Exporting Abundance, Facing Scarcity: The Nebraska Food Paradox" on Friday, September 25, 2026, from 10:50 to 11:50 a.m. Central Time. The seminar will examine the disconnect between Nebraska's strong agricultural production and the challenges many communities face in accessing locally produced food.
Although Nebraska's economy is heavily rooted in agriculture, much of the food produced in the state does not ultimately reach local consumers. Fragmented regional food systems can make it difficult for farmers and local processors to move products efficiently to market. During the seminar, the speakers will discuss the challenges affecting food access and regional food systems while highlighting opportunities for innovation that can help build and sustain a more vibrant local food economy.
The presentation will be delivered by Mary Emery, Ph.D., Professor in the Agricultural Leadership, Education and Communication Department at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, and Raquel Johnson, Postdoctoral Research Associate in the Agricultural Leadership, Education, and Communication Division.
Mary Emery is a Professor in the Agricultural Leadership, Education and Communication Department whose work focuses on community development, rural prosperity, food systems, and community leadership. She is a published scholar in applied sociology and community development, a past chair of the Community Development Society, and co-author of Guide to Ripple Effect Mapping and Field Guide to Community Coaching. Her work emphasizes connecting research, education, and Extension resources with opportunities that address challenges facing rural communities.
Raquel Johnson is a Postdoctoral Research Associate in the Agricultural Leadership, Education, and Communication Division. Her work focuses on food systems, including the experiences of food and farm producers, business growth, and community vitality. Her research aims to strengthen communities and improve livelihoods through more effective and resilient food systems.
The seminar will be held in person at Kiewit Hall (KH) Room A510 in Lincoln, with a remote viewing location available at Peter Kiewit Institute (PKI) Room 160 in Omaha. Participants may also attend virtually. Attendees will receive one Professional Development Hour (PDH), and seminar materials will satisfy the recordkeeping requirements of the Nebraska Board of Engineers & Architects for continuing education credit.
For complete event details and attendance information, visit the official seminar webpage:
