Thomas K. Zucca

Class of 2010

For Thomas K. Zucca, executive vice-president of L.J. Zucca, Inc., success has been the result of a strong work ethic instilled in him by his parents, Louis and Virginia.

Born September 29, 1952, in Vineland, NJ, Tom attended Vineland High School before going on to Franklin & Marshall College, in Lancaster, PA, where he earned a B.A. in business administration in 1974.

His 36-year career in the candy industry began at age 10 when he started working at L.J. Zucca, the family’s convenience store wholesaler business, stocking shelves in the warehouse.

Receiving the title of vice-president of L.J. Zucca from his brother, Louis Jr. in 1980 was the most memorable moment in his career, he says.

In 1998, Tom became executive vice-president of the company, a title he still holds today.

Tom was honored with the Harden E. Goldstein Memorial Award for Outstanding Meritorious Service to the Tobacco & Candy Industry in 1996. He was president of the New Jersey Tobacco & Candy Distributors Association from 1993 to 1994.

Working within his community, Tom represented the board of the Cumberland County Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals as vice-president from 2009 to 2010.

He also sat on the board of directors of the Boys & Girls Club of Vineland from 2007 to 2010, and currently serves on the Arc of Cumberland County board of directors.

Tom has been married to Denice since 1974, and he has a sister, Elizabeth.

Away from the business, Tom’s hobbies include exercise, collecting baseball memorabilia, antiques shopping and collecting, and competitive weightlifting.