Robbinsville’s Joanne Ferrara, senior director of Research, Quality & Innovation at ConAgra Foods, was named the recipient of the 2016 Dr. Richard L. Hall Distinguished Service Award (Hall Award) during the Flavor and Extract Manufacturers Association of the United States’ (FEMA) Annual Convention on May 3 in Clearwater Beach, Florida.
The Hall Award was established in 1995 to honor Dr. Richard L. Hall’s commitment and service to the flavor industry. Since its foundation, the award has been presented only to the most prominent leaders whose work has advanced FEMA and the flavor industry as a whole.
Ferrara has been active in the association for nearly 30 years, including serving a term as FEMA president from 2009-10, the first female to hold the position.
“For 28 years, Joanne has held numerous positions within FEMA, including nine years of active involvement with the International Organization of the Flavor Industry (IOFI), including serving on the IOFI Board,” said FEMA President Kevin J. Renskers, Ph.D. “She approached her responsibilities as a governor, committee chair, liaison and president with passion and a keen appreciation for what the association means to individuals and their careers.”
Among her roles in the association, Ferrara has been a long-time leader of FEMA’s Flavor Labeling Committee, serving as both chair and board liaison. She is also active in FEMA’s Consumer Product Companies Forum and Science Committee.
“Ms. Ferrara represents the best of FEMA — a willingness to always help your colleagues and to dedicate oneself to the advancement of the association’s critical objectives,” Renskers said. “Her extensive contributions and dedication to FEMA will have a lasting impact on the association and the flavor industry.”
