About Us

The Hunger Solutions Institute (HSI) seeks to share knowledge and best practices in the fight against hunger and malnutrition through multi-sector partnerships at the community, state, and global levels. This is accomplished by emphasizing human sustainability, connecting knowledge with practice, empowering communities, and creating multi-sector partnerships.

Established in 2012 by Dr. Harriet Giles and Dr. June Henton as part of the College of Human Sciences at Auburn University, the Hunger Solutions Institute has leveraged the reach and resources of the university setting to address the issue of hunger at home and abroad. Now a multi-million dollar organization under the leadership of Dr. Alicia Powers, HSI has expanded the work of the institute for greater impact. Through teaching, research, outreach, and student engagement, HSI uses a comprehensive approach to work toward a hunger-free world.

Explore the website to learn more about the various initiatives led by the Hunger Solutions Institute, and reach out to hsi@auburn.edu for additional information.

What is Food Insecurity?

According to the USDA, "food insecurity is a household-level economic and social condition of limited or uncertain access to adequate food."

What is Hunger?

The USDA defines hunger as "a potential consequence of food insecurity that, because of prolonged, involuntary lack of food, results in discomfort, illness, weakness, or pain that goes beyond the usual uneasy sensation"

Research and Reports

Auburn University College of Human Sciences' Hunger Solutions Institute (HSI) engaged more than 135 students in teaching and research activities.

HSI recieved more than $1.3 million to launch or expand four research initiatives in partnership with more than 50 Auburn University partners, external organizations and funders.

Emphasizes Human Sustainability

Founded within the disciplines of the human sciences, the HSI is human-centric, recognizing that the health and well-being of people is truly the foundation for long-term sustainability.

Connects Knowledge with Practice

HSI is dedicated to aggregating and disseminating the latest knowledge, research and best practices to those addressing hunger locally and globally.

Empowers Communities

Although solutions are pursued at every level, the HSI emphasizes those from the frontlines of hunger which can be community owned, operated and sustained.

Creates multi-sector partnerships

HSI's research and outreach strategy is to create knowledge coalitions, representing all academic disciplines, and to connect them with partners from the public and private sectors in the battle against hunger.