Panel Discussion TODAY on film exploring food technology, sustainability, diversity & inclusion available to UNL community

Hearts of Glass
September 30, 2020

Lincoln, Neb. — University of Nebraska-Lincoln faculty, students and staff are invited to view the documentary “Hearts of Glass” and participate in a panel discussion with writer, director and producer Jennifer Tennican, employees of Vertical Harvest, and experts from among the UNL faculty.

Click here to access the film through Oct. 2nd.

The panel discussion will take place today, Oct. 1 from 3-4 p.m.(CT). The panel will include:

  • Richard Bischoff, Associate Vice Chancellor for Faculty and Academic Leader Success at UNL (moderator)
  • Amanda Macfarlane, Senior Associate in Packaging Department at Vertical Harvest
  • Jennifer Tennican, Director and Producer of Hearts of Glass
  • Robin VanHouten, Senior Grower at Vertical Harvest
  • Samuel Wortman, Associate Professor in Department of Agronomy and Horticulture at UNL

“Hearts of Glass” follows the first 15 months of operation of Vertical Harvest, a multi-story, state-of-the-art hydroponic greenhouse in Jackson, Wyo. Vertical Harvest grows crops while providing meaningful, competitively paid jobs for people with disabilities. The film addresses a range of issues, including sustainable agriculture, availability of locally grown foods, food technology, diversity & inclusion, disability rights, and workforce development.

“’Hearts of Glass’ touches on many issues central to the UNL community, particularly those related to the future of food production, farm-to-table business models, and diversity and inclusion,” said Rich Bischoff, IANR associate vice chancellor for faculty and academic leader success. “It is a thoughtful and though-provoking film and a wonderful starting point for discussions related to sustainability, local food production, inclusion, and a host of other important issues.”

UNL faculty are invited to incorporate the film and discussion into their fall curriculum. In addition, all UNL students, faculty and staff may watch the film and participate in the discussion. The film’s producer has asked that UNL students, faculty and staff not share the link with individuals or groups outside UNL.

For more information or to view the trailer, visit heartsofglassfilm.com. For information on the panel discussion, film availability, or incorporating the film into a class curriculum, contact Rich Bischoff at rbischoff2@unl.edu or 402-472-5801.


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