Delaware Valley University is participating in “Unearthing the Future,” a new branded content series presented by The Lexicon of Food and produced by BBC StoryWorks.

The series meets farmers being supported to access and steward land of their own, educators championing seed-to-table learning, and food scientists using experimentation to revive and reimagine traditional practices. DelVal’s strong presence in the agriculture industry and its unique Experience360 program for hands-on learning are what resulted in BBC selecting DelVal as one of only six organizations worldwide to feature in the series.

Food sits at the heart of human existence, sustaining life while shaping culture, community, and identity. Yet, despite its central role, many of us remain disconnected from the complex systems that produce and deliver the food we rely on every day. “Unearthing the Future” explores the challenges surrounding how our food is grown, moved, and consumed and includes stories from individuals, organizations, and communities who are rethinking long-established models and aiming to create more sustainable outcomes.

Dr. Jacqueline Ricotta, Chair of the Department of Plant Science and Landscape Architecture, spearheaded DelVal’s participation in the project and took on a prominent role in the feature itself. In the six-minute video, she and recent graduate Charley Silfee tell the story of DelVal and highlight the unique opportunities for hands-on learning future farmers have on DelVal’s campus.

“It was very meaningful contributing to a project that reflects the work I have dedicated so much time to,” said Dr. Ricotta. “It has been deeply rewarding to help students learn by doing over the years and to see their skills and confidence grow through hands-on experiences. I hope this project inspires future agriculture students to get their hands dirty and seek out experiences like the ones we offer here at DelVal.”

Other participants in the series include The Farmers Land Trust, GEA Group, Chef Ann Foundation, Organic Valley Lexicon of Food, and the Culinary Institute of America.

Watch Delaware Valley University’s video below: