Elizabeth J. Taylor

Class of 2015

A Sweets & Snacks Expo, State of the Industry Conference or U.S.A. Pavilion at ISM without Libby is unimaginable. In fact, she cites being part of the team that launched the All Candy Expo in 1997 as the most memorable event in her career, adding: “Every Expo chairman and committee member has taught me so much and inspired me.”

Born May 16, 1957, in Evanston, IL, to Betsy and Ted, Libby grew up with brothers John and Jeff and sister Annie. She attended Groves High School in Birmingham, MI, then Miami University of Ohio, earning a bachelor of arts in Communications in 1980. While in high school, she toured as a cast member of Up With People, and returned as its promotion coordinator after college.

In 1981, she was hired as convention service manager at the Great Smokies Hilton Resort & Conference Center in Asheville, NC, and soon was promoted to sales manager. Three years later, she left Asheville for Washington, DC, as director of member relations & meetings under the leadership of Candy Hall of Famer Larry Graham at the National Food Processors Association, now part of the Grocery Manufacturers Association.

Libby took a one-year hiatus in 1990 to manage the historic Norris House Inn in Leesburg, VA, after which she signed on with the National Telephone Cooperative Association as its manager of meetings from 1991 to 1993.

In 1993, she became director of meetings & membership with the National Confectioners Association (NCA). “What attracted me was the chance to work for an industry representing fun products, and filled with wonderful, positive people — and the chance to work for Larry Graham again,” she says.

Today, as NCA Vice-President of Meetings & Membership, Libby notes: “Some of my closest friends are in this industry. They drive, inspire and motivate me.”

Dedicated to confectionery, she was recognized with a special Distinguished Service Award by the NCA Supplier Advisory Committee in 2010, and awarded an internship in the U.S.A. Pavilion at the Paris Air Show for her work on international trade shows and commitment to helping members export.

A member of the NCSA, Western Candy Conference and Food Industry Meetings Professionals, Libby is NCA staff liaison for the State of the Industry Conference, Supplier Advisory, Young Professionals Network and Exhibitor Advisory committees.

An enthusiastic gardener and cook, Libby enjoys travel and spending time with family and friends. She is a member of the Georgetown Christ Church congregation, and also has served on committees for the National Symphony Orchestra and the DC Salvation Army Gala.

Libby retired from NCA in August 2020.