On April 3, 2024, the Walker Institute hosted an event aimed at fostering stronger connections within the Columbia community. Attendees were given the opportunity to engage with one another and learn more about the idea of Blue Zones. Jodi Salter, the Director of Strategic Initiatives and Cyber Degree Program Manager at the Walker Institute, started the event by providing an insightful overview of Blue Zones and their significance. Following her introduction, Mayor Daniel Rickenmann took the stage to share his enthusiasm for Columbia's current positive vibes and expressed the city's readiness to welcome the Blue Zones initiative. Mayor Rickenmann then introduced Margaret Brown, Vice President of Business Development at Blue Zones LLC, who elaborated on the various Blue Zones across the globe, including notable examples in Loma Linda, California, Ikaria, Greece, and the newly added Singapore, Singapore. She highlighted the potential for Columbia to join this distinguished list.

The Walker Institute wants to extend its gratitude to our guests and sponsors who made this event possible and successful:

Guests:

Mayor Daniel Rickenmann of Columbia

Margaret Brown, Vice President of Business Development at Blue Zones LLC

Culinary Partner:

Smoked, for providing delicious cuisine

Community Partners:

Ben Adams, All Good Books

Caroline Crowder, Boyd Innovation Center for providing an excellent event venue

Columbia World Affairs

Hungarian Musicians Zalton Varga and Norbit Lakner

Karen Jenkins, KRJ Consulting