Susan Smith

Class of 2006

Susan was born on August 15, 1954, in Bryan, OH, and attended Bowling Green State University and The Ohio State University where she obtained her BA and MBA degrees. In 1978, she married Bryan and they raised two children, Sam and Maggie.

Prior to entering the candy business, Susan worked as a legislative assistant in the Senate and House of Representatives. She was hired by the Chocolate Manufacturers Association in 1984 to be the director of legislative affairs. In 1992, she assumed responsibilities at the National Confectioner Association and later, the World Cocoa Foundation.

At the time of her induction, Susan was senior vice-president of public affairs for the NCA, fostering responsible industry messages based on science. In addition, she serves as the media contact for the chocolate industry’s child labor issues and spearheaded the Halloween Hotline and consumer education program.

In addition to her professional responsibilities, Susan teaches children’s Sunday school and supports a shelter for battered women. She has also worked for Habitat for Humanity and food-delivery charities.

A theater and music enthusiast, Susan enjoys reading, hiking and spending time with her family.