John Gerber

John Gerber is a Professor of Sustainable Food & Farming and Program Coordinator for the online Sustainable Food & Farming Bachelor of Science program at the Stockbridge School of Agriculture, University of Massachusetts Amherst. He teaches courses in botany, food justice, and agricultural systems thinking, and provides leadership in sustainability education through innovative online and blended learning formats.

Education:

• Ph.D. in Vegetable Crops Ecology, Cornell University (1978); minors: Agricultural Education, Soil Science
• M.S. in Vegetable Crops Ecology, Cornell University (1976); minor: Soil Science
• B.S. in Botany, University of Rhode Island (1973); minor: Chemistry

John Gerber's research and teaching emphasize sustainability, community engagement, and personal growth through food and farming systems. His work integrates ecological principles with social justice, contemplative practices, and systems thinking. He promotes experiential learning through service, dialogue, and student-led initiatives.

His contributions to sustainability education have been widely recognized, most notably with the University Distinguished Teacher Award in 2008, the highest teaching honor at UMass.

• University Distinguished Teacher Award (2008)

John Gerber has played a pivotal role in mentoring students and launching impactful sustainability projects at UMass, including the Permaculture Initiative, the Student Farm, GardenShare, and the Real Food Challenge. These initiatives reflect his commitment to integrating academic learning with community responsibility and real-world change. He continues to guide the development of the online Sustainable Food & Farming program, expanding access to transformative education.

He is affiliated with the Stockbridge School of Agriculture and teaches courses such as STOCKSCH 100 (Botany for Gardeners), STOCKSCH 172 (Plants in Our World), STOCKSCH 356 (Food Justice and Policy), and STOCKSCH 379 (Agricultural Systems Thinking), all of which emphasize interdisciplinary and holistic approaches to plant and food systems.