Celebrating Scholarship and Creativity Day (2018-)

Document Type

Paper

Publication Date

4-30-2026

Disciplines

Food Science | Nutrition | Sociology

Advisor

Dr. Emily Berg Paup

Abstract

Food Insecurity can affect certain groups more than others. At the College of Saint Benedict and Saint John's University we've observed it in international students, student-athletes, and those without transportation. Although CSBSJU offers several dining options, it can still be difficult for students to access meals due to limited availability during breaks, limited dining hours for student-athletes, and transportation barriers. This paper examines how food insecurity and nutrition insecurity impact students’ overall well-being while also exploring how these challenges appear within the CSBSJU community. Research shows that students experiencing food insecurity often report higher stress levels, and lower academic engagement. This paper also goes over the important difference between food insecurity and nutrition insecurity,  where students need access not only to food, but to nutritious food that can support long-term health. At the same time, current efforts are already being made at CSBSJU, including snack packs, expanded meal plans, and the implementation of the 24-hour food market at SJU. To further improve food accessibility, this paper proposes a creation of a 24/7 food pantry at the College of Saint Benedict, where nutritious snacks will be open without cost. This proposal reflects the Benedictine value of respect for persons by contributing to a more inclusive campus environment, and improving food accessibility at CSBSJU would help ensure that all students have the opportunity to succeed academically and personally.

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