You likely recognize Jodie Huegerich if you have been a frequent College Hill Farmers Market attendee, are a local food producer, and/or have attended the Local Film and Food Festival or the Local Food Dinner. She is the organizer behind these events through her work as the University of Northern Iowa Local Food Program Manager at the Center for Energy & Environmental Education. With such a broad and deep understanding of the local food system, it’s no wonder that Jodie has been a supporter of the Co-op as a member-owner since 2016, and was elected as a board member in November of 2019.
Moving to Cedar Falls with her husband Tony 15 years ago, Jodie has made her mark not only through the local food scene but in several other areas. She chairs the Aldrich Elementary CARE Wellness Committee and volunteers for the Northeast Iowa Food Bank, Boy Scouts Troop 500 and Cub Scouts Pack 179. Her husband, Tony is an engineer for John Deere and, as you might have guessed based upon some of her volunteer roles, they have three boys: Anthony (16), Trevor (14), and Noah (11). When asked what brings her joy, Jodie highlights spending time with family and friends especially when that time can occur outdoors. Her most treasured outdoor activities include walking her dog Bandit, biking, kayaking, and camping.
Not surprisingly, Jodie has immersed herself in the important work for the Rooted Carrot Co-op Board, attending the Up & Coming start-up food co-op conference in early March and also chairing the communications committee. She tells us, “I’m excited for the future of Rooted Carrot Co-op Market. It will be a fantastic place to shop and for local producers to sell their products consistently year-round.” We are fortunate to have Jodie’s insight, knowledge and experience along with the steady, positive energy she brings to this work.