Dr. Barnard to Speak at Hofstra University

Join us for an engaging evening exploring the critical intersections of food systems, scientific innovation, societal impacts, and sustainable practices. This event will examine how food production, consumption, and policy influence our health, environment, and communities—drawing on interdisciplinary perspectives from science, public health, medicine, nutrition, and sustainability studies.

Special emphasis will be placed on the dual benefits of plant-based foods: as a cornerstone of sustainable food systems that reduce environmental strain (e.g., lower greenhouse gas emissions, biodiversity preservation, and resource efficiency) and as powerful tools in preventive medicine and “food as medicine.” Evidence shows that diets rich in whole plant foods—fruits, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, nuts, and seeds—can lower risks of chronic diseases, including cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, obesity, certain cancers, inflammation, and metabolic disorders, while supporting overall health and longevity.

As part of Hofstra University’s Earth Day celebrations (leading into official Earth Day activities later in April), this program underscores the university’s commitment to environmental leadership, community responsibility, and forward-thinking solutions for a healthier planet and people.

Format

• Featured panel discussion with experts (panelists and full agenda to be confirmed and announced soon)
• Interactive Q&A and networking opportunities
• Light refreshments with a focus on sustainable and healthy, plant-forward options

Sponsors

Jointly presented by:

• Hofstra Northwell School of Nursing and Physician Assistant Studies
• Hofstra Northwell School of Medicine (Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell)

In collaboration with Hofstra’s Office of Sustainability and integrated into the university’s broader Earth Day programming.

Who Should Attend

• Hofstra students, faculty, and staff (especially in health sciences, sustainability, nutrition/food studies, environmental science, preventive medicine, and related fields)
• Community members interested in food security, climate action, public health, nutrition as medicine, and sustainable living
• Professionals in nutrition, agriculture, policy, medicine, lifestyle medicine, and environmental sectors

Registration & Updates

Free and open to all—no formal registration required at this time—but we encourage you to express interest for updates on panelists, agenda, any ticketing/RSVP needs, or last-minute changes.

Stay Connected

• Official event page (forthcoming on Hofstra’s calendar): https://news.hofstra.edu/events (search for the event title)
• Questions? Contact: Yesika Fernandez at Yesika.I.Fernandez [at] hofstra.edu (Yesika[dot]I[dot]Fernandez[at]hofstra[dot]edu).

Why This Matters

Food systems play a pivotal role in addressing intertwined global challenges: climate change, biodiversity loss, resource depletion, nutrition equity, and rising chronic disease burdens. Plant-based approaches offer evidence-based solutions—promoting sustainable agriculture and diets that protect the planet while serving as “medicine” to prevent and manage conditions like heart disease, diabetes, obesity, and more through nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory foods. This event brings together diverse voices to discuss scientific evidence, innovative practices, policy implications, and the essential role of education and collaboration in building healthier individuals and a more sustainable world.

We look forward to welcoming you on April 14, 2026! 

Directions & Parking

• The Zucker School of Medicine is located on the north side of the Hofstra University campus.
• Enter through Hofstra’s main entrance on Hempstead Turnpike (Route 24).
• At the second stop sign after entering, turn right.
• Make the first right down the School of Medicine driveway and proceed through the gate.
• Parking is available in front of and behind the building; additional spots are across from the soccer fields or along the driveway.
• For campus maps and real-time directions, visit: https://medicine.hofstra.edu/ or Hofstra’s interactive map at map.concept3d.com/?id=19 (search for “Zucker School of Medicine”).
• Accessibility: The building is ADA-compliant; contact us in advance for any specific needs.