Investing in Regenerative Organic Agriculture
Farm-to-Table Dinner & Fireside Chat:
An Evening Rooted in Connection, Purpose and Possibility
Presented by Rodale Institute
October 9th, 2025 | 6:00 PM
Thistlerock Mead Co. & Farm | Charlottesville, Virginia
Presented in partnership with:
About the Evening
Join Rodale Institute for a thoughtfully curated farm-to-table dinner at Thistlerock Mead Co. & Farm, a regenerative apiary and the nation’s first net-zero meadery.
Set against the foothills of the Blue Ridge Mountains, this evening will bring together a dynamic group of leaders and changemakers to explore the future of regenerative organic agriculture — and its profound implications for human and planetary health.
While enjoying a seasonal meal crafted from local regenerative farms and Thistlerock’s own meadery, guests will take part in a powerful conversation at the intersection of agriculture, land stewardship, and systems transformation.
Tickets: $150 per guest or $275 for a party of 2
Includes farm-to-table dinner, beverage pairings, and evening programming.
Location: Thistlerock Mead Co. & Farm
Charlottesville, Virginia
Exact address will be shared upon RSVP.
Related Events
Farm-to-Institution Symposium
Organic Workshop and Buyer/Seller Mixer
Why Now, Why Here?
With national momentum building and Virginia at an inflection point, this evening offers guests a meaningful opportunity to connect with the people and ideas shaping the regenerative future of food, health, and land.
An Invitation to Connect
This is more than a dinner—it’s a gathering of people who care deeply about the future of our land, our food, and our collective well-being. It is a space for inspiration, grounded dialogue, and the cultivation of a community of changemakers.
Guest Will Enjoy:
- A regionally inspired, multi-course meal highlighting regenerative ingredients
- Curated mead and non-alcoholic pairings
- Intimate conversation with national and local leaders shaping the regenerative movement
- An unforgettable setting under the stars at one of Virginia’s most innovative farms
A Curated Conversation
The evening will feature a fireside-style conversation between Jeff Tkach, CEO, Rodale Institute; Christopher Gergen, CEO, Regenerative Organic Alliance; and Tom McDougall, Founder & CEO, 4P Foods. Moderated by Christine Mahoney, Chief Impact Officer, University of Virginia.
Together, They Will Explore:
- The role of regenerative organic agriculture as a lever for long-term ecological, economic, and community resilience.
- How institutions, leaders, and place-based initiatives are shaping the next chapter of food and health.
- Opportunities to accelerate meaningful change through shared vision and aligned action at international, national, and local scales—and how Virginia is poised to lead.
Registration
Tickets: $150 per guest or $275 for a party of 2 (includes the full farm-to-table dinner, beverage pairings, and evening programming).
Your registration will be processed as a tax-deductible donation to Rodale Institute, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Space is limited. Registration is on a first-come, first-served basis.
About Rodale Institute
Rodale Institute is a global leader in regenerative organic agriculture. For over 75 years, the Institute has driven the science and practice behind farming systems that heal the soil, nourish communities, and bolster climate resilience. Through rigorous research, farmer training, consulting, and advocacy, Rodale Institute is equipping the next generation of farmers, institutions, and policymakers to grow a healthier, more regenerative future.
Proceeds from this event support Rodale Institute’s mission to transform agriculture for the betterment of people and the planet.
About Us
Questions?
For questions, please contact Nadine Clopton, Regenerative Education Program Manager, at nadine.clopton@rodaleinstitute.org.
