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Gemma Bastian

Assistant Professor and SDSU Extension Nutrition and Health Specialist

605-688-4046

411 Wagner Hall (SWG)
Box 2275A
Brookings, SD 57007

Gemma Bastian serves as an assistant professor and SDSU Extension Nutrition and Health Specialist based in Brookings. She is a nutrition educator and researcher focused on supporting people experiencing or at risk of food insecurity. Gemma brings extensive experience in developing evidence-based curricula, leading community-based research and partnering with local organizations to improve health and wellness. Her work has impacted several populations, including high school students from low-income communities, tribal wellness coalitions, patients managing diet-related chronic conditions and college students on the autism spectrum.

Areas of Expertise

  • Food security
  • Nutrition education
  • Produce prescription programs
  • Adolescent nutrition
  • Autism spectrum

Programs and Services

State & Regional Offices

SDSU Campus
Also by Gemma Bastian
The front of a building says "Buche Foods"

SDSU Extension partners with Buche Foods to make food dollars go further

September 17, 2026

South Dakota State University Extension is partnering with grocery stores and farmers markets to help Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) dollars go further.

A table display of vegetables at a farmer's market.

Double Up Food Bucks South Dakota

Double Up Food Bucks is designed to help families bring home more fruits and vegetables, supporting healthier food choices and local economies.

a yong man presenting to a group of people

Growing Connections: An Organizational Map of the South Dakota Local Food System

Behind every farmer’s market, community supported agriculture share, or local food event is a network of advocates, educators, and organizations that make it all possible. The South Dakota Local Food System map illustrates the organizations that strengthen local food through a variety of roles and functions.