For the past 28 years, Joyce Steet has taken a passion for confectionery and a love of science and developed some of the industry’s most iconic brands. Born on September 12, 1970, in Atlantic City, Joyce’s upbringing was enriched by the profound influence of her parents, both of whom were teachers and avid sailors. From […]
Marlene Stauffer’s 42-year career has been marked by her passion for chocolate and her commitment to sharing her knowledge with others. Born on September 15, 1959, in Grove City, PA, Marlene was raised on a dairy farm in a close-knit family, where her parents, James and Alice, emphasized the importance of hard work, humility, and […]
A distinguished leader in the confectionery industry, with a career spanning nearly three decades, Jeffery Rome, was born on September 26, 1955, in Youngstown, OH. Raised in a close-knit family, Jeff absorbed the values of hard work and integrity from his parents, Manuel and Alice, who ran a local feed store while raising Jeff and […]
Matt Pye’s life is a testament to perseverance, and passion. Raised in a lively household shared with his seven siblings, Matt learned the values of hard work, education, and resilience. Born on August 12, 1967, in Newark, NJ, to Robert and Elizabeth, he says his parents instilled in their children a pursuit of knowledge and […]
Amos Ma’s journey from a small town in Hunan Province to a leading figure in the global confectionery industry is a testament to dedication, vision, and an unwavering commitment to making the world a sweeter place. Born Enduo Ma on March 22, 1970, to Ma Shiguang and Tang Xinhua, Amos grew up in a modest […]
Anybody who has spent time with Patrick Hagerty has heard the phrase “Candy Makes People Happy.” It is what has driven him throughout his career. Born on June 17, 1958, in Denver, to Edward and Claire, and growing up with four siblings, he says his parents’ unconditional love and the shared laughter are some of […]
Georgia Gallicchio attributes her success in the confectionery industry to her capacity to continuously rethink, reimagine, and disrupt. Born on September 21, 1968, in Okinawa, Japan, Georgia is the daughter of Andrew and Paraskeve Barclay, and was raised alongside her brothers James and Louis. Her father’s U.S. Army service and her mother’s deep philosophical insights […]
Edward Dee was known for his generosity, sense of humor, and dedication to his employees, whom he considered part of his extended family. Born in London, England, on October 2, 1924, to Raya and Emanuel, Eddie grew up with a younger brother. He also had a brother and sister from his father’s second marriage, following […]
Sylvia Buxton has been a global confectionery industry executive, leader, innovator, mentor, and volunteer for more than 30 years. Born on July 22, 1965, in Montreal, Quebec and the youngest of nine children, her family life was filled with warmth, fun, and cherished memories. She says her parents’ dedication to family and community deeply influenced […]