EVENT P GRAM
6:00 PM
WELCOME RECEPTION | Gidwitz Lobby
Menu by UChicago Catering featuring recipes from Jubilee: Two Centuries of African-American Cooking Beer & Wine bars featuring Funkytown Brewery & Love Corkscrew
CHEF’S TABLE FT. CHEF LAMAR J. MOORE | Lower Level
Enjoy a special menu selection by Chef Lamar J. Moore of etc. and learn the importance of farm-to-table dining
7:00 PM
WELCOME & OPENING REMARKS | Performance Hall
Student Hosts
STUDENT PERFORMANCES | Performance Hall
Ankara Magic
PANEL CONVERSATION | Performance Hall
Moderators: Shanice Handley
Panel Members: Dominique Harris, Dakarai Howard, Erika Allen
CLOSING REMARKS | Performance Hall
Student Hosts
8:00 PM
POST RECEPTION | Gidwitz Lobby
Pastries, Coffee & Tea by UChicago Catering featuring Chicago
French Press blends
NERS
This event was planned in partnership with the following groups in a collective effort to highlight the voices and stories of Black Farmers, Chefs, and Artists.
The Organization of Black Students (OBS) at the University of Chicago is a dynamic, student-led community dedicated to empowering Black voices, fostering academic success, and celebrating rich cultural heritage. Through innovative programs, events, and advocacy, OBS creates inclusive spaces for dialogue, support, and the promotion of Black excellence on campus.
The African and Caribbean Student Association (ACSA) at the University of Chicago fosters a vibrant community that celebrates and elevates African and Caribbean cultures, histories, and achievements. Through cultural events, dialogues, and advocacy, ACSA cultivates inclusive spaces for academic, social, and personal growth, uniting students in pride and community empowerment.
The Black Graduate Coalition (BGC) at the University of Chicago is a vibrant network of Black graduate students dedicated to fostering academic excellence, professional development, and social empowerment. Through workshops, networking events, and mentorship programs, BGC fosters strong peer connections and elevates Black voices across campus.
meet the panel
ERIKA ALLEN
Erika Allen is the CEO for Urban Growers Collective, President of Green ERA Educational NFP, and Co-Owner of Green Era Sustainability Partners. Her work exemplifies a strong commitment to sustainability with her dedication to the eradication of environmental injustice and promotion of regenerative, urban agriculture within Chicago. Her commitment to the public sector through the promotion of sustainable agriculture, forging economic opportunities for low-income individuals and creating access to healthy food has made a strong and considerable impact. Erika has dedicated her professional career to public service, developing sustainable community food systems and addressing structural racism and its inherent barriers to justice. Allen has been appointed by Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker for the Illinois Leadership Council for Agricultural Education (ICAE) for a 3 Year term (2022-2024), and was selected in 2022 by the Biden Administration to join the Farm Service Agency (FSA) Committee for Illinois. Allen holds a BFA from the School of the Art Institute of Chicago and her MA in Art Psychotherapy from the University of Illinois at Chicago. She received an Honorary Doctorate Degree in Public Health from the University of Illinois at Chicago in December 2022. Headshot by MicheleMariePhotography.com
Dakarai Howard is an urban farmer, organizer, and passionate food justice advocate dedicated to making food accessible and promoting civic engagement. Over the years, he has worn many hats, blending grassroots activism with expert knowledge in agriculture to create lasting community impact. Dakarai earned his Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Economics from the University of Kentucky, where he was deeply involved in the College of Agriculture, Food and Environment’s Office of Diversity & Inclusion, working to build bridges between communities and agricultural opportunities. Today, he serves as the Senior Policy Advisor for the Illinois Department of Agriculture, where he plays a key role in shaping policies that support sustainable farming practices and local food systems. With a clear vision for the future, Dakarai remains committed to uplifting sustainable agriculture as a means to drive policy reform, promote community economic development, enhance food sovereignty, and ensure responsible land stewardship throughout Illinois. His dedication inspires positive change, creating pathways for a more equitable and resilient food system for all, in every community.
DAKARAI HOWARD
DOMINIQUE HARRIS
Dominique Harris currently serves as the Senior Director in Cargill’s Salt division. Over her twelve-year career at Cargill, Dominique served in numerous positions with experience in sales, strategy, innovation, mergers, acquisitions and government relations. Prior to her role in Salt, Dominique served as the Global Strategy and Business Development Lead for Alternative Proteins, where she led the team’s engagement with start-ups, incubators, and the venture capitalist community. Ms. Harris started her Cargill career in the company’s Washington, DC office where she served as government relations lead for Cargill’s Africa, Asia-Pacific and international trade portfolio.
Before joining Cargill, she held positions in both government and in the non-profit sector. A native of Chicago, IL, Dominique earned a Bachelor of Applied Science in Bioengineering from the University of Pennsylvania and a MPA from The George Washington University’s Trachtenberg School of Public Policy and Public Administration.
DER OR
Shanice Handley (she/her) is a dedicated second-year student at the University of Chicago, double majoring in Race, Diaspora and Indigeneity, and Public Policy while minoring in Education and Society. On campus, she actively contributes as the co-action Chair of OBS and as a committed member of ‘Kinda Sorta Brown’ and WYSE. In her role as Action Chair, Shanice works to bridge the gap between the Black student community and the greater South Side community. She organizes events such as the Community Conversations Series and plays a key part in planning the annual Black Conference—initiatives that foster dialogue on issues central to the Black experience. Outside of her academic and leadership responsibilities, Shanice enjoys exploring Black culture in Chicago, whether by visiting local coffee shops, browsing independent bookstores, or attending art exhibits. Her commitment to social justice and community engagement is evident in every initiative she undertakes, empowering voices and building bridges.
SHANICE HANDLEY
COABOR S
Chef Lamar Moore was born and raised in the South Side of Chicago. Growing up in a large family, Moore learned the importance of cooking with love, taking care of people, and giving back to those less fortunate. He honed his craft from San Jose seafood kitchens to Chicago Bears’ sidelines and TV competitions. He currently serves as the Executive Chef of his new Southern American restaurant, etc.
Funkytown Brewery, proudly born in a family garage, merges Chicago’s craft scene with 90’s Hip Hop and R&B energy. Founded in 2021, it aims to demystify beer appreciation and serve underserved communities. Fueled by innovation and representation, Funkytown offers brews in over 100 Chicago locations, inviting everyone to savor diversity.
Love Cork Screw is a Black-owned, woman-owned wine brand with a fresh take on what wine for this generation should be – fun, inclusive, simple and delicious. Their unique selection of award-winning premium red, white, and rosé varietals are more than wine, they’re a whole mood.
Ankara Magic is the University of Chicago’s premier African dance team celebrating African culture through dynamic performances. Founded by passionate students, the group blends traditional and contemporary dance styles, performing at campus events and community gatherings. Their mission is to inspire, educate, and connect through dance, fostering cultural appreciation and inclusivity.
ANK YOU!
Thank you for joining us, celebrating with us, and most
Tonight’s menu was brought to life by UChicago Catering! Elevate your next event with our exceptional service, top-tier quality, and innovative culinary creations. From elegant receptions to casual gatherings, we design diverse menus to impress and satisfy every palate. Ready to make your event unforgettable? Call UChicago Catering at (773) 947-6600 to book today!
