The Student Food Security Council (SFSC) at Baylor University is spearheading an ambitious initiative to combat student food insecurity while reducing waste. Forming within the Baylor Collaborative on Hunger and Poverty, this council aims to establish a comprehensive food recovery network in collaboration with Chartwells Higher Education and the national non-profit, Food Recovery Network. The project seeks to repurpose leftover dining hall food for redistribution to students in need, ensuring that nutritious meals reach those who require them most. This effort underscores the university’s commitment to addressing social issues and fostering a supportive community environment.
Initiated by Waco junior Bella Burns, the SFSC has been actively engaging with key stakeholders to develop strategies that tackle food insecurity head-on. Weekly meetings bring together passionate students and dedicated staff members to brainstorm solutions and implement effective plans. A primary focus of the council is to establish a system where surplus food from campus dining facilities can be efficiently cooled, packaged, and delivered to The Store, Baylor’s student food pantry. By doing so, they aim to prevent valuable resources from going to waste and ensure every student has access to nourishing meals.
Marcus Franklin, the marketing and communications specialist for the Baylor Collaborative, plays a pivotal role in guiding the SFSC. He emphasizes the importance of involving more student voices in addressing this critical issue. “We want to create a platform where students feel heard and supported,” Franklin notes. The council’s efforts extend beyond just food distribution; they are committed to raising awareness about food insecurity and promoting discussions that challenge existing stigmas. Starting with Penland Crossroads, the plan is to gradually expand the network to cover all dining halls across the campus.
Moreover, the SFSC aspires to extend its impact beyond the university grounds by transporting meals to local food pantries and shelters in Waco. Recognizing that many students face barriers such as lack of transportation or financial constraints, the council believes that small collective efforts can make a significant difference. They advocate for prioritizing food recovery over composting whenever possible, ensuring that usable food reaches those in need first. Ultimately, the SFSC envisions a future where no student has to worry about accessing sufficient, nutritious meals, thereby enhancing their overall collegiate experience.
The SFSC’s initiatives not only address immediate food security concerns but also contribute to broader environmental sustainability goals. By transforming surplus food into much-needed meals, the council fosters a culture of resourcefulness and community care. Through these efforts, Baylor University demonstrates its dedication to nurturing both academic excellence and social well-being, ensuring that every student can thrive without the burden of food insecurity.
Spring is the perfect time to refresh your home, diet, and outdoor lifestyle. Sam’s Club has a variety of seasonal must-haves to help you make the most of the season. Here are five top shopping recommendations:
Fresh Spring Produce
Spring brings an abundance of fresh fruits and vegetables, and Sam’s Club has a fantastic selection. Stock up on juicy strawberries, blueberries, and oranges, along with fresh greens like spinach, asparagus, and broccoli to add vibrant flavors to your meals.
Outdoor Living & Grilling Essentials
With warmer weather, it’s time to enjoy outdoor activities. Sam’s Club offers a great selection of grills, patio furniture, and gardening supplies to enhance your backyard experience. Whether you're hosting a BBQ or setting up a cozy outdoor lounge, you’ll find everything you need.
Healthy & Convenient Food Options
Spring is a great time to reset your diet. Sam’s Club carries a range of organic snacks, protein-packed meals, and nutritious pantry staples to support a healthier lifestyle. Look for meal prep essentials and grab-and-go options to make eating well easier.
Home Cleaning & Organization
Spring cleaning is a must! Stock up on bulk cleaning supplies, storage bins, and organization tools at Sam’s Club to keep your home fresh and clutter-free. With multipurpose cleaners and high-quality paper products, tackling deep cleaning has never been easier.
Spring Wardrobe Refresh
Update your closet with stylish and comfortable spring fashion. Sam’s Club offers lightweight jackets, athleisure wear, and casual outfits perfect for the season. Get great deals on high-quality apparel for the whole family.
Head to Sam’s Club this spring for unbeatable deals on fresh food, home essentials, and everything you need to embrace the season!
As holistic healthcare gains momentum across the United States, the Pacific College of Oriental Medicine (PCOM) stands at the forefront of training skilled acupuncturists through its accredited acupuncture programs. With campuses in New York, Chicago, San Diego, and an online hybrid platform, PCOM addresses the growing demand for licensed practitioners in integrative medicine. Combining ancient traditions with modern science, these programs prepare students to bridge gaps in pain management, mental health, and chronic disease care.
Why Choose PCOM’s Acupuncture Programs?
PCOM, a pioneer in Oriental medicine education since 1986, aligns its curriculum with the National Certification Commission for Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine (NCCAOM) standards and evolving healthcare needs. Key advantages include:
- Accredited Excellence: Programs are accredited by the Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine (ACAHM), ensuring compliance with national educational benchmarks.
- Flexible Learning Models: Choose from on-campus, hybrid, or online tracks with clinical hours completed at affiliated community clinics.
- Career-Focused Training: Graduates qualify for NCCAOM certification exams, with job placement support in hospitals, private practices, and wellness centers.
Program Structure & Curriculum
PCOM’s Master of Science in Acupuncture (MSAc) and dual-degree programs (e.g., Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine) blend theory, hands-on practice, and interdisciplinary learning.
- Core Didactic Training (2–3 Years)Foundational Theory: Courses in Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) principles, meridian systems, and diagnostic techniques (e.g., pulse and tongue analysis).Biomedical Integration: Anatomy, physiology, and pathophysiology to align TCM with Western medical practices.Specialized Modules: Pain management, fertility support, oncology acupuncture, and psychiatric wellness strategies.
- Clinical Practicum (600+ Hours)Students treat patients under licensed supervisors at PCOM’s teaching clinics, which serve diverse communities. Rotations emphasize:Needle Technique Mastery: Safe and precise acupuncture application.Herbal Prescription Training: Customizing formulas for conditions like migraines or gastrointestinal disorders.Interprofessional Collaboration: Shadowing MDs, chiropractors, and physical therapists in integrative settings.
- Research & InnovationCapstone projects explore evidence-based applications of acupuncture, such as opioid-alternative pain protocols or stress reduction in corporate wellness programs.
Licensure & Career Pathways
Graduates meet educational requirements to sit for the NCCAOM certification exams, a prerequisite for state licensure. PCOM’s 2023 alumni survey highlights:
- 92% First-Time Pass Rate on NCCAOM exams.
- 85% Employment Rate within 6 months of graduation.
- Salary Range: 60,000–60,000–90,000 annually, depending on specialization and location.
Career Opportunities Include:
- Private acupuncture clinics.
- Integrative hospitals (e.g., Mayo Clinic, Cleveland Clinic).
- Veteran Affairs (VA) centers addressing PTSD and chronic pain.
- Corporate wellness programs and sports medicine teams.
Exclusive Program Features
- Bilingual TCM Training: Spanish or Mandarin tracks available to serve multilingual populations.
- Veteran-focused Scholarships: Partnerships with organizations like Acupuncturists Without Borders support veterans entering the field.
- Global Externships: Clinical rotations in China (e.g., Shanghai University of TCM) or community health projects in Mexico.
Admission Requirements
Applicants must:
- Hold a bachelor’s degree (any discipline) with a 3.0 GPA minimum.
- Complete prerequisite courses in biology, psychology, and chemistry.
- Submit letters of recommendation and a personal statement outlining their commitment to integrative care.
Alumni Impact & Success Stories
- Dr. Elena Torres, LAc (San Diego, CA): “PCOM’s emphasis on biomedical integration helped me collaborate seamlessly with oncologists at Scripps Health.”
- James Kim, Clinic Owner (Chicago, IL): “The business mentorship I received now allows me to run a thriving practice focused on athletic recovery.”
How to Apply
- Attend a Virtual Info Session: Explore program details via PCOM’s admissions portal.
- Submit Materials: Transcripts, essays, and proof of prerequisites.
- Interview: A faculty panel assesses alignment with PCOM’s mission.
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Conclusion
The Pacific College of Oriental Medicine’s acupuncture courses empower students to become leaders in a $4.2 billion U.S. holistic healthcare market. By merging rigorous academics, community-centered clinical training, and a commitment to accessibility, PCOM not only advances individual careers but also expands integrative care access for underserved populations. In an era where 14% of Americans use acupuncture annually (NIH 2023), PCOM graduates are poised to redefine 21st-century healthcare.