Emma Scott Joins Vermont Law and Graduate School as Director of Food and Agriculture Clinic: A Bold Step for Food System Equity

Vermont Law and Graduate School (VLGS) has taken an exciting leap forward with the appointment of Emma Scott as the new director of the Food and Agriculture Clinic. With a stellar background in food law, policy, and social justice, Scott brings a wealth of experience to this role. She’s not just stepping into a position; she’s here to make a lasting impact, and the timing couldn’t be better.

A Trailblazer in Food Law and Equity

Scott is no stranger to food systems advocacy. Her work at Harvard Law School’s Food Law and Policy Clinic (FLPC) speaks for itself. She was at the forefront of advancing food system equity and sustainability, tackling some of the most pressing issues in food law. From advocating for farm bill policy reforms to ensuring equity for food system workers and those relying on USDA programs, Scott’s contributions have been both bold and transformative.

One of the standout aspects of her work at FLPC was her leadership in the Mississippi Delta Project, where she supported student initiatives while managing key partnerships in this historically under-resourced region. This experience is going to be pivotal as she takes on her new role at VLGS, where rural food systems and equity are also central.

A Champion for Farmworkers and Immigrant Communities

Before her work at FLPC, Scott’s advocacy didn’t slow down. She worked as an attorney-fellow with the California Rural Legal Assistance Foundation in the Labor and Civil Rights Litigation Unit, focusing on representing workers from immigrant communities. Her work with farmworkers under the H-2A visa program exemplifies her commitment to justice for marginalized populations in the food system. This background makes her particularly well-suited to lead a clinic that’s designed to tackle the challenges faced by rural communities and the agricultural sector.

A New Vision for the Food and Agriculture Clinic

Laurie Beyranevand, director of the Center for Agriculture and Food Systems (CAFS) at VLGS, summed it up perfectly: “Her knowledge of food law and policy, dedication to equity, and passion for creating impactful hands-on learning opportunities make her an invaluable addition to our faculty.” Scott’s arrival at VLGS signals a new chapter for the Food and Agriculture Clinic. Under her guidance, the clinic will continue to offer vital experiential learning opportunities, allowing students to roll up their sleeves and engage in real-world legal challenges.

Scott’s focus on experiential learning underscores her belief that hands-on experience is key to shaping future leaders. “Experiential learning is essential for preparing future lawyers,” Scott said. “While the classroom is incredibly important, nothing compares to hands-on experience.” With her at the helm, students will be immersed in the complexities of food systems law and come out ready to make real-world changes.

Guiding the Next Generation of Changemakers

Beyond leading the clinic, Scott will also teach courses on farmworkers and the law, deepening students’ understanding of the intersection between labor rights and agricultural policy. Her teaching will undoubtedly inspire students to see the broader social justice implications of food law and encourage them to become advocates for change.

A Well-Rounded Advocate for Change

Emma Scott’s journey to VLGS is impressive, to say the least. After earning her B.S. in Social Sciences with a focus on Cross-Cultural Studies and International Development from California Polytechnic State University, she went on to graduate cum laude from Harvard Law School. She then served as a law clerk in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of California, rising to senior law clerk in her second year.

Her extensive background, combined with her passion for equity and sustainability, makes her the perfect leader to drive the Food and Agriculture Clinic forward. VLGS students will undoubtedly benefit from her mentorship and expertise as they work to create more equitable food systems.

A Bright Future for Food and Agriculture at VLGS

Emma Scott’s appointment is a game-changer, not just for Vermont Law and Graduate School but for the future of food law and policy. Her deep understanding of the challenges faced by marginalized communities and her commitment to sustainability and justice make her an ideal leader for the Food and Agriculture Clinic. It’s an exciting time for VLGS, and with Scott at the helm, the future of food and agriculture law looks brighter than ever.

The Food and Agriculture Clinic is set to be a hub of innovation and justice under her leadership, shaping a new generation of lawyers ready to tackle the world’s most pressing food system challenges. Buckle up—it’s going to be an inspiring ride!