JAFSCD Shareholder Commentaries

A JAFSCD Shareholder Privilege

Organizational and individual JAFSCD shareholders are welcome to prepare and submit one commentary each year on a food systems-related topic that will be of interest to our transdisciplinary and transprofessional readership. 

Commentary guidelines

  • Length: between 800 and 2,500 words
  • Style: first person, active voice, accessible language, limited jargon
  • See the Dos and Don'ts of Story-writing on the Voices from the Grassroots for guidance

Examples of topics that can be included in a JAFSCD Shareholder Commentary:

  • Program and/or project update that will be of interest to food systems researchers and professionals around the world.
  • A recommendation regarding a new research effort, policy, or practice.
  • Announcement of a proposed project, with an invitation to engage collaborators.
  • Outline of a best practice in food systems work under development, or a proof of concept.
  • Introduction of a new tool, resource, or publication.
  • A call for action in the development and advocacy of a public policy.
  • A summary of activities going on in your community, state, or region that might inspire others.

Whatever you choose to focus on, first share some details about your institution's food systems-related programing (including any impact metrics if you like). Then spend the remainder of your commentary on the chosen topic, and conclude with a summary and (if you care to) a call for some action by your fellow shareholders in the JAFSCD Shareholder Consortium.

If you have more to say than 2,000 words, consider writing a peer-reviewed paper like a reflective essay, a case study (a third-party qualitative study about another project, organization, or event), or perhaps even a research paper that includes a systematically conducted survey, focus group, or structured interviews. 

Contact Duncan Hilchey with any questions or concerns.