Events

Reunion

The Friedman School alumni community came together this April for two Reunion celebrations! The week began on Wednesday, April 15, with a virtual program that welcomed alumni from across the globe. Attendees heard opening remarks from Dean Economos, NG96, and Liz Hatzenbuehler, N20, MG20, Reunion & Programs Chair, setting the stage for an engaging evening. The keynote address was delivered by Jimmy Edgerton, E06, whose work in entrepreneurship education and innovation inspired attendees to think boldly about the future of food and nutrition.

A panel of featured alumni highlighted the many ways Friedman graduates are shaping industries in both traditional and unconventional paths. Speakers included:

Emily Steliotes, A15, N17 – Co-Founder, The Job Feed & Executive Director, IC-FOODS Canada
Micah Risk, N13 – Co-Founder, Lighter, Inc.
Lara Hyde, N09, NG12 – Creative Director, Nourishable
Ricardo Moreno, N22 – Program Director, Level Ground Mixed Martial Arts
Daina Trout, N07, MG07 – Founder of Health-Ade + Movie Producer
Katrina Billard, N13 – Owner + Founder, The Empowered Kitchen

The evening concluded with a live Q&A and small breakout sessions, offering space for meaningful conversations and deeper connections.

The celebration continued in person on Saturday, April 25, at More Than Words Bookstore in Boston. Alumni gathered for an evening of reconnection and recognition, beginning with a school update from Dean Economos, NG96, and remarks from Toni Maraglino, N09, President of the Alumni Association Executive Council.

A highlight of the evening was the presentation of the 2026 Alumni Awards by Shveta Taparia, NG04, Awards Chair. Awardees were recognized for their outstanding contributions and meaningful impact in their respective fields.

Rising Star Award - Kenny Westerman, PhD, E14, N16, NG19
Excellence in Nutrition Award - Sung Nim Han, PhD, NG99
Leah Horowitz Humanitarian Award - Hasangani Edema, F21, N21

The event also featured live conversations with alumni speakers Emily Steliotes, Micah Risk, Lara Hyde, and Ricardo Moreno, who shared insights into their career journeys and engaged directly with attendees.

In-Person Reunion Photos

Virtual Reunion Recording

Both the in-person and virtual Friedman School Reunions were a success! The in-person Reunion & Alumni Awards Ceremony celebrated alumni achievements by honoring the Alumni Award recipients, as well as alumni entrepreneurs who returned to showcase their work. Remarks were given from Christina Economos, NG96, Dean, Friedman School; Toni Maraglino, N09, President, Alumni Association Executive Council; and Shveta Taparia, NG04, Awards Chair, Alumni Association Executive Council.

Alumni and the Friedman community also gathered online for a virtual program featuring a panel of alumni entrepreneurs with a Q&A session. Remarks were given by Chris Economos, NG96, Dean, Friedman School; Benny Belvin, Director of Career Services and Liz Hatzenbuehler N20, MG20, Chair, Reunion & Programs Committee.

In-Person Reunion Photos

Virtual Reunion Recording