In March, three MPA students, Amanda Newell, Sam Perren, and Sarah Sheehan, took the stage at The National Invitational Public Policy Challenge, hosted by the Fels Institute of Government at the University of Pennsylvania.  With help from SPIA faculty members, Dr. David Bradford and Dr. Grace Bagwell Adams, their proposal, Pack to Plate, earned a spot as a semifinalist from 11 other top public administration and policy schools in the nation, along with New York University, the University of Pennsylvania, and the University of Southern California.  In their presentation, they identify major issues within Athens’ food community and find one unique solution. Pack to Plate will decrease food waste, increase food security, and equip participants with the tools they need to cultivate a healthier lifestyle by rescuing fresh food from local grocers and distributing it in backpacks to kids who need it most.  With their $5,000 winnings, they hope to bring Pack to Plate to full fruition in the Athens community. To watch their full presentation: http://www.fels.upenn.edu/watch-national-finals