ASU celebrates farmers market 5-year anniversary

The Farmers Market @ ASU Tempe is holding a special anniversary recognition ceremony, Jan. 27, to honor the vendors, staff, students and community partners for turning a vision of socially embedded market tradition for ASU and the greater community into reality.

The event will take place at noon, on the Student Services Lawn, on Arizona State University’s Tempe campus.

The farmers market concept at ASU began as an environmental sustainability service learning class project. In September 2009, Chad Williams, former president of the ASU Health and Counseling Student Action Committee, collaborated with multiple ASU departments and university partners to organize a pilot market.

Due to the overwhelming response of the pilot market, a monthly market started being held during the spring 2010 semester. Interest continued to rise, so during fall 2010 the market started being held every other week.

Over the last five years, the market has provided fresh and local food for students, faculty, staff and the Tempe community while raising awareness about healthy eating and sustainability. In April 2012, the Farmers Market @ ASU Tempe received an ASU President’s Award for Sustainability.

During spring 2015, the farmers market will be conducted on the Student Services Lawn from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., on Jan. 27, Feb. 10, Feb. 24, March 24, April 7 and April 21. With approximately 25 vendors, the market features seasonal produce, specialty food items produced in Arizona and ready-to-eat food and beverages. While the event is geared toward ASU students, faculty and staff, the outside community is also encouraged to visit the market. The farmers market is a collaborative effort, sponsored by ASU departments, student groups and community organizations.

“The market contains a wide variety of healthy foods. One can enjoy lunch, buy fruits and vegetables, or pick up a snack on the way to class. The farmers market provides us with opportunities to integrate healthy eating and green living practices into our daily lives,” says Betty Lombardo, manager in the Office of University Sustainability Practices.

For more information about the Farmers Market @ ASU Tempe, visit asu.edu/farmersmarket.