Nourishing minds and hearts at the Grinnell Community Meal

GRINNELL — Most Grinnell tutorials typically meet in a classroom, but there is one class that often gathers in a unique setting at the heart of the Grinnell College campus — the Marcus Family Global Kitchen.

The Global Kitchen is a dynamic new teaching space in the Institute for Global Engagement within the Humanities and Social Studies Center. It shows students the importance of feeding themselves and others in an ethically grounded and environmentally sustainable way.

This innovative learning environment goes beyond conventional culinary education. It fosters an interdisciplinary study of food, promoting global discovery by exploring food’s central role in the human experience.

Professor of Russian Todd Armstrong teaches the Food Stories tutorial. He takes his students beyond textbooks and lectures, delving into the world of food and its profound cultural significance.

Within the cozy confines of the Marcus Family Global Kitchen, students embark on a journey that combines intellectual discourse with practical, hands-on experience. They discuss and write about food and learn the art of culinary creation.

"In this tutorial, we delve into a culinary journey that extends beyond the classroom, thanks to the dedication of the Global Kitchen Team, led by our Culinary Coordinator, David Stanley,“ said Armstrong.

“The support of our Global Kitchen Peer Mentors adds a unique dimension to this exciting form of teaching. Together, we're not just crafting meals; we're fostering an environment where students explore the rich connections between food, culture, and community,” said Armstrong.

At the end of October, Armstrong and his students prepared and served food for the newly reinvented Grinnell Community Meal. Their efforts addressed the issue of food insecurity and created a connection with the local community.

The Grinnell Community Meal combined Davis Community Meal and Grinnell United Methodist Church’s Blessed Community Meal — both of which operated independently before the pandemic.

Grinnell Community Meal is served weekly at the Grinnell Methodist Church. It’s open to all community members and operates with the assistance and support of community groups.