About This Episode

Season 6. Episode 10.

Food insecurity is a growing crisis among college students, forcing many to make impossible choices between meals and their education. In this episode of Education Insight, host Lacey Kendall speaks with Karlen Nurijanyan, founder of The Student LunchBox, a nonprofit dedicated to addressing hunger and basic needs among students in Los Angeles County.

Karlen shares his personal story of experiencing food insecurity as a college student, what inspired him to launch The Student LunchBox, and how the organization has expanded to support thousands of students across multiple campuses. From providing groceries and toiletries to reducing stigma and promoting student well-being, this conversation sheds light on the power of compassion, community, and action in higher education.

Featured Guest

Karlen Nurijanyan

Founder, Student LunchBox

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Education Insight tells the story of education in the Inland Empire through the diverse voices of those in and around the regional education community. The show is produced by Growing Inland Achievement, a collective impact organization in the Inland Empire with a mission to increase economic prosperity in the region by increasing educational attainment. Hosted by 30-year broadcast veteran Lacey Kendall, monthly shows explore topics ranging from education challenges and shortcomings to innovations and groundbreaking ideas that are driving student success.