Michael Puma Named Interim Director; F4H Launches Three-Pillar Implementation Structure

Michael Puma, Director of the Center for Climate Systems Research at Columbia Climate School, has been appointed Interim Director of the Food for Humanity Initiative following Jessica Fanzo's transition to Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies.

F4H is grateful for Jess's leadership in establishing the Initiative and launching its 2025-2030 strategy. She will continue collaborating with F4H as an external partner.

To build momentum and demonstrate impact from this strategic vision, the Initiative is launching with three foundational pillars that leverage Columbia Climate School's unique strengths: Network Science, Operational Intelligence & Forecasting, and the Living Lab. This structure concentrates initial efforts where F4H creates genuine comparative advantage while positioning the Initiative for expanded partnerships as opportunities develop.

The pillars integrate fundamental climate science research with operational decision support platforms and hands-on student learning experiences spanning campus and city scales. Network Science reveals how climate shocks cascade through global food trade networks. Operational Intelligence & Forecasting translates climate forecasts and network insights into decision support platforms for humanitarian organizations and policymakers. The Living Lab provides experiential research integrating climate science, AI, and food production from Lamont campus to New York City's urban food ecosystem.

Over the coming months, Puma will connect with F4H's collaborative network to share this framework and explore how it supports the diverse food systems work happening across Columbia and with external partners.