HVCC Professor Peter Sawyer Hosts Public Discussion on Food Security Through SUNY Fellowship

April 14, 2026

Peter Sawyer, a professor in the Education and Social Sciences department at Hudson Valley Community College, was appointed as a fellow for the 2026 SUNY Civil Discourse and Civic Education and Engagement Fellowship Program. He is one of ten fellows selected for the cohort, which aims to advance SUNY’s commitment to civic engagement as an essential outcome of higher education.

As part of his fellowship, Sawyer aims to support SUNY faculty and staff in preparing for the upcoming implementation of a core competency to advance civil discourse in the SUNY General Education Framework. He will also work on projects that promote civic engagement, create resources to support faculty and staff, and help foster a community of practice focused on civil discourse and civic education.

To further his fellowship work, Sawyer organized a public deliberation event, “Food for Thought: Addressing Food Security,” on April 8 at Revolutionary Hall in Troy. The event gathered community leaders, local food business owners, and residents to discuss food security challenges and explore community-driven solutions. Free food was provided for all attendees, creating a welcoming environment for open conversation.

Public deliberation is a structured process where community members come together to discuss pressing issues, share perspectives, and collaborate on solutions. The discussion at “Food for Thought” focused on ensuring everyone has access to nutritious food.

In addition to the public deliberation, Sawyer hosted an informational presentation in February titled “Let’s Eat: Providing Food to All of Our Students,” which introduced students, faculty, and staff to public deliberation and civil discourse on the topic of food insecurity.

“We are thrilled to see Professor Sawyer selected as a SUNY civic fellow and are incredibly proud of the work he’s doing,” said Dr. Michael Brophy, president of Hudson Valley Community College. “These events have been a powerful way to raise awareness about food security in our community, and we look forward to continuing our support of his efforts in the fellowship program.”

"Empowering students to become well-rounded, engaged citizens is an important part of SUNY's commitment to academic excellence," SUNY Chancellor John B. King said. "It is essential for a strong democracy that people are not only civically engaged but are also able to communicate and even disagree in civil and appropriate ways. I offer my heartfelt appreciation and congratulations to the faculty fellows selected for this year's Civil Discourse and Civic Education and Engagement program and thank them for their dedication to building a stronger society for all."