Cultivate leadership and representatives attended a ceremony where we were awarded the 2024 External Partnership Sustainability Award by the University of Notre Dame’s Office of Sustainability and Procurement Services. This award honors suppliers and other partners who have made sustainability an integral part of their business practices while partnering with the University.
“To receive this honor from such a prestigious institution is humbling,” said Jim Conklin, Co-Founder and Executive Director at Cultivate Food Rescue, “Our success is due, in large part, to the partnership we’ve forged with Notre Dame. From financial support and food donations to volunteers and knowledge sharing, Notre Dame is key to our service in the community.”
Executive Vice President, Shannon Cullinan presented the award to Cultivate Leadership at an award ceremony on May 9, 2024.
Describing the criteria considered in the award, Geory Kurtzhals, Senior Director of Notre Dame Sustainability, said, “Cultivate Food Rescue has demonstrated outstanding commitment to sustainability, stewardship, and community welfare. By rescuing food and delivering it to community members in need, they not only address hunger but also reduce food waste, which is a notable action area in the face of climate change. In the landfill, food would decay and emit greenhouse gases, particularly methane. Cultivate’s approach showcases their innovative thinking and dedication to making a positive impact that exemplifies social, environmental, and economic impacts: all 3 pillars of sustainability.”
Since 2017, Cultivate rescued over 800,000 pounds of food from Notre Dame, including Notre Dame Athletics, Dining Halls, University restaurants and events.