Model USDA
Example hero paragraph text.
Model USDA invites USDA NextGen scholars and interns to step into the shoes of food policy decision-makers during a multi-day simulation.
Through role playing on timely issues before USDA, students act out real life job functions in a simulated atmosphere. All NextGen programs, including Model USDA, are designed to engage, educate, and empower the next generation of food systems leaders.
Overview and impact of Model USDA
The inaugural Model USDA was held virtually from January 31 to February 2, 2025, bringing together more than 140 students from Arizona State University, Hawai‘i Pacific University, University of Alaska Fairbanks, and the University of Guam for a first-of-its-kind simulation of federal food and agriculture policymaking.
Students stepped into their roles and worked across teams to debate, negotiate, and co-create policy solutions addressing real-world issues — from dietary guidelines and urban agriculture to nutrition education and rural communities. The event exceeded expectations, with over 95% of participants calling it a valuable learning experience and 100% successfully achieving their scenario objectives.
Student reflections
“For us to be able to be a part of [Model USDA] and use that knowledge that we have been learning for the last year and a half, to understand the process, to understand what ways we can collaborate together…it was really enriching. I can’t recommend it enough.”
– Carla Manuel, ASU Master of Science in sustainable food systems student
Hear from more students in this video as they reflect on how Model USDA deepened their understanding of complex policy decision-making, expanded their skill sets, and shaped their career aspirations.
Welcome videos for participants
In these introductory videos, Kathleen A. Merrigan, former Deputy Secretary of Agriculture and current Executive Director of the Swette Center for Sustainable Food Systems, along with Chavonda Jacobs-Young, former Under Secretary for Research, Education, and Economics, and former USDA Chief Scientist, share their insights on the expectations and goals of Model USDA.
Spring 2025 participants
If you are participating in Model USDA in the spring 2025 semester, please use the links below to access important event resources. Note that “Program administrators” refers to event hosts, or anyone playing the role of moderator, assistant moderator or journalist. All other participants should select the “Students” button.
If you have any questions about Model USDA, please email Vanessa Pablo-Jones.
Model USDA partners
This work is supported by the USDA National Institute of Food and Agriculture.
For any Model USDA inquires, contact:
