“Sowing Seeds of Compassion”
Compassionate Houston’s 2024 Annual Luncheon presents
Dr. Bob Randall, Co-Founder Urban Harvest
Dr. Bob Randall is a food systems anthropologist and permaculture designer with a deep passion for sustainable agriculture. With over five decades of experience in food systems, Dr. Randall has made significant contributions as a researcher, educator, and activist. He has taught at multiple universities, including a part-time role as a community agriculture lecturer in the ecology department at Rice University.
In 1987, Dr. Randall made the decision to leave academia and pursue a career as a professional food activist.
He began his journey as a community gardens specialist at a hunger-fighting agency and later co-founded Urban Harvest, Inc., a non-profit organization. During his 14-year tenure as Executive Director, Urban Harvest experienced remarkable growth, with its budget reaching $800K by the time Dr. Randall retired in 2008.
Throughout his career, Dr. Randall has played a pivotal role in the development of community gardens, school gardens, farmer's markets, and organic landscaping in the area. His expertise and dedication have been invaluable in promoting sustainable and environmentally friendly practices in the food industry.
In addition to his practical work, Dr. Randall is also an accomplished author. His bestselling book, "Year Round Vegetables, Fruits, and Flowers for Metro Houston - A Natural Approach Using Ecology," is now in its 12th edition. This comprehensive guide provides valuable insights and strategies for growing a wide variety of produce in the Houston area, incorporating ecological principles.
Dr. Bob Randall's lifelong commitment to sustainable food systems and his extensive contributions to the field make him a highly respected figure in the realm of food activism and permaculture design.