LUNCHBOX Talk: Seeding Relationships: The Philosophy of Giant Pumpkin Growing 
with Randi Byrd, Community Engagement Coordinator, UNC American Indian Center

Date: Thursday, November 30, 2017 from 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM

Join us for an exhilarating and comical journey through competition giant pumpkin growing. Explore the connections between indigenous cultures, ecological relationships, and producing these massive fruit, some up to 2,000 pounds! Learn how a small seed can bring together families, and communities, and inspire future generations with green thumbs.

About LUNCHBOX Talks: Bring your lunch and join us for a free lecture! Pre-registration required.

About the presenter:

Randi R. Byrd is the Community Engagement Coordinator for the American Indian Center at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. She serves as Project Coordinator for the Healthy Native North Carolinians Network. Ms. Byrd works closely with American Indian communities in North Carolina around health and wellness through a holistic community lens, community grassroots organizing that values indigenous ways of knowing and practices, facilitating and promoting tribally-vetted and culturally appropriate curricula on NC American Indians, affirming tribal self-determination in sustainable planning and fostering mutually beneficial partnerships that strategically and meaningfully strengthen communities. Ms. Byrd serves as mentor through the American Indian Center for students and Ambassadors particularly interested in opportunities to give back to their communities through service. In 2016 she was recognized by the university with the C. Knox Massey Distinguished Service Award which celebrates employees who demonstrate “unusual, meritorious or superior contributions.” Her hobbies include growing competition-sized giant pumpkins, fishing, and writing.