2020 Speaker | Carter Oswood

Carter Oswood
Executive Director, Feed Iowa First

Carter Oswood is the Executive Director at Feed Iowa First, a grass-roots community of businesses, faith organizations, schools, farmers and volunteers that unite in relationship-based service to help combat food insecurity by growing food and farmers. Leveraging partnerships and underutilized urban land, Feed Iowa First grows and distributes fresh, chemical-free produce direct to communities that struggle with access to nutrient-dense food. 

Born and raised in Cedar Rapids, Carter has a deep passion for food systems and is determined to enact tangible programs to increase equal access to chemical-free produce for all.  With a bachelor’s degree from Drake University and a master’s degree from Charles University in Prague, his prior experience has ranged from business development and management, to photography and journalism.  Prior endeavors led to a life of work and study in Russia, Australia, China, New Zealand, and the Czech Republic.  Years of international experience have generated a love of cross-cultural connection, and a deep appreciation for other ways of life.  He believes that equal access to fresh, healthy produce is a basic human right and is passionate about create a food system that works for everyone in the community.