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NCSA Inducts 11 Industry Leaders into the Candy Hall of Fame
The 54th anniversary of the event took place October 23-25 in Orlando, Florida
ORLANDO, Fla. (Oct. 29, 2025) – This past weekend, the NCSA honored 11 industry leaders who have significantly impacted the confectionery industry during its 54th Candy Hall of Fame induction ceremony. The event celebrated the Candy Hall of Fame Class of 2025 at the Signia by Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek in Orlando, Florida, on Saturday, October 25, during a black-tie banquet.
The 2025 Candy Hall of Fame inductees were: John Brooks, Jr., Adams & Brooks, Inc.; Jim Dodge, Mars Wrigley; Mike Farley, Goetze’s Candy Co., Inc.; Robin Gutridge, Raley’s Supermarkets; Betsy Harris, HWY Partners; Tom Rosenberger, Sheetz Inc.; Eric Schmoyer, IRCA Group Americas;Sherrill Taylor, Burdette Beckmann Inc. (posthumous); Lynn Wieland, Spangler Candy Co.; Dennis Williams, National Convenience Distributors; and Andrew Young, HWY Partners.
“Every year, the Candy Hall of Fame shines a spotlight on individuals who have dedicated their lives to this industry,” said Byard Ebling, NCSA President & CEO. “Each inductee brings a legacy of passion, leadership and innovation that not only strengthens our industry today but also lights the way for its future.”
Since 1971, the Candy Hall of Fame has recognized lifetime career achievements in the confectionery industry. Candy Hall of Fame members come from all disciplines within the confectionery industry, must have at least 20 years of service to the confectionery industry (buyers must have at least 10 years of experience) and must be 50 years of age at the time of nomination. Honorees should demonstrate loyalty to building and supporting the confectionery industry through active participation over and above job requirements.
“The Candy Hall of Fame is more than a celebration of individual achievement – it’s a reminder of what makes this industry so special: the people,” said Teresa Tarantino, Executive Director of NCSA. “The stories and contributions of these 11 inductees are now a part of the permanent record of our industry, serving as a guidepost for generations to come.”
Nearly 420 representatives from the confectionery industry, along with friends and family members, were present for this prestigious event, including more than 60 Candy Hall of Fame members who returned to welcome in the new class.
To learn more about the inductees, click here.
For more details about the NCSA and the Candy Hall of Fame, visit www.candyhalloffame.org or follow them on Facebook and LinkedIn.
Photo caption (left to right): Robin Gutridge, John Brooks, Jr., Lynn Wieland, Jim Dodge, Dennis Williams, Mike Farley, Eric Schmoyer, Andrew Young, Tom Rosenberger, and Betsy Harris.
About the NCSA
The National Confectionery Sales Association (NCSA), formed in 1899, is dedicated to Recognition, Fellowship, Education and Mentoring. The NCSA administers the Candy Hall of Fame and the Kettle Awards. The Candy Hall of Fame was founded in 1971, and recognizes lifetime career achievements in the confectionery industry, with induction based on dedication to the overall betterment of the industry. Established in 1946 by industry publisher Don Gussow, the Kettle Awards annually recognize a deserving individual working within the U.S. confectionery manufacturing industry.
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