Holiday gifts that support local talent and CFANS alumni

LI YAN TAN, STRATEGIC COMMUNICATION, BA '25

This holiday season, give a gift that’s as meaningful as it is special! From fresh, locally sourced treats like Compart Duroc Pork and Autumnwood Farm’s milk to beautiful jewelry and sweet bonbons, these gifts support CFANS alumni and local producers. Whether you’re indulging in something savory or sweet, these thoughtful gifts will bring joy and make a lasting impact!

Share the Gift of Flavor with Compart Duroc Pork

This holiday season, delight the food lovers in your life with Compart Duroc Pork, renowned as “The Black Angus of Pork” for its exceptional marbling, tenderness, and rich flavor. Raised on small family farms, many with CFANS alumni roots, Compart Duroc pork delivers unmatched quality, from juicy Back Ribs to elegant Frenched Loins and savory Apple Smoked Bacon. Visit Compart Duroc to explore their premium offerings and make your celebrations unforgettable!

Autumnwood Farm’s Fresh, Creamy Milk

Treat someone special to the rich, natural flavors of Autumnwood Farm’s milk, bottled fresh from the Daninger family’s hometown dairy. With a rich legacy dating back to 1902, the Daninger family combines modern innovation with a timeless commitment to quality, delivering natural dairy products that’ll convert even the most reluctant milk drinkers. This is a gift that’s sure to delight. 

A Meaningful Gift of Nature-Inspired Jewelry from Jenson Natural Jewelry

Gift a one-of-a-kind piece from Jenson Natural Jewelry, handcrafted with love and inspired by the beauty of natural stones and crystals. Founded by CFANS alum Kristine Jenson, the jewelry collection combines artistry and meaning, while supporting important causes in memory of her niece, Devon Jenson. 

Sweeten Their Day with Local Honey from the Bee Squad

Gift a jar of locally harvested creamed honey, straight from the Bee Squad’s honey bees in the Twin Cities. This smooth, creamy treat supports vital bee research and conservation efforts led by the University of Minnesota's Bee Lab, helping protect pollinators for a healthier, more sustainable future.

Durable & Stylish Lands’ End CFANS Canvas Tote

Give the gift of practicality with the iconic Lands’ End Canvas Tote, designed to last with rugged cotton canvas and reinforced handles. Perfect for everyday use, it offers a water-resistant base, multiple pockets for organization, and comes in medium, large, and extra-large sizes to fit all your essentials. Whether it’s for the beach, the office, or a weekend getaway, this tote has you covered.

Locally Sourced Delights: Curated Gift Boxes from the Meat and Dairy Salesroom

Set the table with delicious, locally produced meat, cheese, and honey from the Department of Animal Science’s Andrew Boss Meat Lab. Choose from curated gift boxes like the “Smokehouse” variety pack or the “Bacon Lovers” special, and don't forget to check out their selection of local honey, cheese, and ice cream during regular salesroom hours. Check out the options and then place your order.

Sip Local: Minnesota Cold-Hardy Wines

Thanks to the Minnesota Hardy breeding program, you can enjoy wines made from cold-hardy grapes that thrive in our winters. Support local wineries by purchasing directly from them, as distribution to large stores can be a challenge for small businesses. Discover the best local cold-climate wines near you.

Cheese Lovers’ Delight: Best-Sellers Gift Box from Redhead Creamery

Enjoy award-winning cheeses from CFANS alumna Alise Sjostrom '09 and her team at Redhead Creamery. Their “Best-Sellers” gift box lets you sample their fan favorites, crafted at Jer-Lindy Farms. Perfect for any cheese enthusiast!

Winter Bonbons from Chocolat Celeste: A Taste of Excellence

Indulge in world-acclaimed bonbons from CFANS alumna Mary Leonard '79, made with fresh local ingredients and imported European chocolate. Chocolat Celeste offers preservative-free confections, perfect for gifting or enjoying yourself. Find her confections at her website or visit her store just off University Avenue at 652 Transfer Road, Suite 16A, St. Paul. for these delightful treats!

From all of us at CFANS, we wish you a joyful and meaningful holiday season, filled with warmth, gratitude, and the spirit of giving!