SFA Seeks Nominees for Leadership Awards

The Specialty Food Association (SFA) is seeking nominations for its second annual Leadership Awards to recognize association members who are true leaders in the $86 billion specialty food industry. 

The awards are given in three categories: citizenship, business leadership and vision. They honor individuals who are advancing food standards in society by creating social, economic and environmental impact through innovation and vision. 

“The specialty food industry is fueled by passionate entrepreneurs who care not only about bringing great food to market, but about having a positive impact on society. Our Leadership Awards celebrate their outstanding contributions in the workplace, community and beyond,” said Ann Daw, president of the Specialty Food Association. 

Nominations will be accepted through Tuesday, Oct. 22 at specialtyfood.com/leadership awards. Nominations may be made by association members and individuals outside the association. A panel of specialty food professionals and industry influencers will convene at the Specialty Food Association in New York to evaluate the entries and select winners. 

Winners will be honored at a special ceremony at the Winter Fancy Food Show in San Francisco. Jan. 19-21, 2014, at Moscone Center. 

Winners of the 2013 Leadership Awards were: Citizenship: Nasser Abufarha, founder, Canaan Fair Trade, Camas, Wash.; Business Leadership: Shawn Askinosie, founder and owner, Askinosie Chocolate, Springfield, Mo.; and Vision: Karlene Hunter, co-founder and chief executive, Native American Natural Foods, Kyle, S.D.