2025 VegFest Presenters
See schedule of presenters below in the main pavilion.
11:00 am
Jenney Woodford
Jenney Woodford, former professional vegan chef, has taught cooking classes for St. Louis Community College and Parkway in MO, and Washtenaw Community College, Whole Foods, and Plum Markets in MI. In addition, she has conducted food demonstrations & has professional baking experience in both states. Her education includes nutrition and business classes at Washtenaw Community College, MI. Her focus is on veganizing mainstream/recipe hacks, sugar free, raw food, and, most recently, gluten-free & oil free cooking.
12:00 PM
Bob Baker, MAAL
Bob Baker, Executive Director of the Missouri Alliance for Animal Legislation, has been a leader in the animal welfare movement for more than 40 years. A nationally recognized authority on animal cruelty, Bob has spearheaded groundbreaking investigations, championed landmark legislation, and earned widespread acclaim for his tireless advocacy on behalf of animals. At St. Louis VegFest, Bob will share highlights from the Alliance’s victories during Missouri’s 2025 legislative session and provide an inside look at the top priorities shaping the 2026 session.
1:00 PM
Dr. Niraj Shah
Fellow vegan, Dr. Niraj Shah, M.D. is triple board certified in Family Medicine, Obesity Medicine, & Lifestyle Medicine for BJC Healthcare. He offers consultation virtually as well as in person (Belleville region). He is also a certified Yoga and mindfulness meditation teacher.
Join us in the pavilion as Dr. Shah speaks with us about the many benefits of a plant-based lifestyle!
2:00 PM
Erica Camp
A Chick Chat with Second-Hen'd
Erica Camp is the founder of Second-Hen'd. As a daughter of an immigrant father, Erica grew up on a family farm in Colombia (South America) where she learned the value of hard work. Tasked with daily chores caring for their many animals, as is typical of Erica, a deep attachment to chickens grew quickly – specifically with a meat bird she named Chiquita. Chiquita was purchased at a local market for food, but she ultimately taught Erica the important lesson that "livestock" holds far more value than simply being meant for your plate. After a stint in the military her job brought her to St. Louis. The lower cost-of-living allowed for purchasing a home – with enough space for a coop. Erica's dream of having chickens on HER terms was finally going to become reality. So a plan was hatched & the rest is history!
