Recent Headlines
Inspired at ESF, Leading Change Nationwide: Alumni Earn James Beard Foundation Impact Award
SYRACUSE, N.Y. — June 29, 2026 — The SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry (ESF) proudly celebrates the achievements of alumni and ReFED co-founders, who were recently recognized with a prestigious James Beard Foundation (JBF) Impact Award for their groundbreaking work addressing food waste and advancing sustainable food systems.
Co-founders Betsy and Jesse Fink accepted the award in Chicago, where they were honored alongside an esteemed group of global changemakers and world-renowned chefs. The JBF Impact Awards recognize leadership and innovation in creating a more equitable, sustainable, and resilient food system.
“ESF is very proud of Betsy, Jesse, and the continued impact of ReFED,” said ESF President Joanie Mahoney. “Their work exemplifies the power of ESF’s mission, combining environmental stewardship, innovation, and real-world impact to address some of today’s most pressing global challenges.”
The honorees credit ESF as the foundation of their work.
“Our journey began at ESF, where we met and were inspired to make a difference in the world,” they shared. “We are proud to carry that mission forward through our work in food waste reduction, biodiversity, and broader environmental sustainability initiatives.”
ReFED, a national nonprofit committed to reducing food waste across the United States, has been widely recognized for its data-driven solutions and cross-sector collaboration. More information about ReFED and its work can be found at https://refed.org. Its impact has also been the subject of academic analysis, including a case study developed by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).
This recognition underscores the lasting influence of ESF’s academic community in shaping leaders who are advancing sustainability on a global scale.
About SUNY ESF
The SUNY College of Environmental Science and Forestry (ESF) is dedicated to the study of the environment, developing renewable technologies, and building a sustainable and resilient future through design, policy, and management of the environment and natural resources. Members of the College community share a passion for protecting the health of the planet and a deep commitment to the rigorous application of science to improve the way humans interact with the world. The College offers academic programs ranging from the associate of applied science to the Doctor of Philosophy. ESF students live, study and do research on the main campus in Syracuse, N.Y., and on 25,000 acres of field stations in a variety of ecosystems across the state.