The Division of Nutritional Sciences (DNS), housed within the College of Agricultural, Consumer and Environmental Sciences at the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign, has established the “Dr. George C. Fahey Nutritional Sciences Seminar Fund.” Set to launch in the fall of 2025, the new seminar series will serve as a platform for bringing world-renowned experts in the field of nutritional science to campus, contributing to sustained excellence in graduate education and fostering interdisciplinary research discussions.

Established in the name of Professor Emeritus George Fahey — a distinguished animal sciences researcher who reshaped our understanding of carbohydrate nutrition and gastrointestinal health in both humans and animals — the fund will support seminars that continue to explore critical areas of nutritional research, providing the academic community and the public with access to cutting-edge findings. Through these seminars, DNS aims to further strengthen its role as a leader in nutritional innovation, fostering conversations that have a direct impact on health and well-being. 

In his nearly 50-year career as a faculty member in animal sciences and nutritional sciences, Fahey advised nearly 100 graduate students and post-doctoral research associates in his laboratory. He also served on the committees for approximately 150 additional graduate students during that time. Many of the individuals mentored and trained by Fahey now serve as leaders in the human food and animal feed industries, academia, and government.

“We’re excited to launch the George Fahey Seminar Fund, which will bring leading experts in nutritional science to the University of Illinois. This initiative will not only foster collaboration but also advance interdisciplinary research, driving innovation in both human and animal health,” said DNS Director Kelly Swanson, also a professor of animal sciences. 

“We invite contributions to the George Fahey Seminar Fund. Over $50,000 has already been raised, but more is needed to endow the seminar fund fully, so we are hoping for more support from the Illinois faithful. Your generosity will provide dedicated funding for cutting-edge seminars on the topic of nutritional sciences in both human and animal health.”

Contributions can be made online at nutrsci.illinois.edu/give by specifying “George Fahey Seminar Fund #777715” in the “Other” field. To explore other giving opportunities, contact the College of ACES Office of Advancement at 217-333-9355 or acesadvancement@illinois.edu.