2007

Outstanding Alumnus

Dr. Suzanne Case
B.S. 1983, M.S. 1988, Ph.D. 1992

Dr. Case is currently the Section Manager of Ingredient and Process Research for Kraft Foods, Inc.  Suzanne has always conducted herself as an outstanding scientist and proud alumni of N.C State.
After graduation with her B.S. degree she went to work for Hardees Food Systems.  During that time she developed the start of her expertise in carbohydrates.  Realizing that she needed additional education to fulfill her career goal, she returned to NCSU. Her outstanding achievement during her M.S. program was readily apparent and earned her a prestigious USDA National Needs Fellowship for her Ph.D. Program.
Suzanne worked for National Starch for two years before moving to her current employer, Kraft.  Her career at Kraft is full of accomplishments, with a notable major contribution to the successful DeGiorno Pizza brand. 
Throughout Suzanne’s career she has always made it a point to help the Department of Food Science whenever possible.  This could be something as simple as making periodic visits and providing interesting industry insight to faculty, to being a key member of the Departmental Industrial Advisory Board (1997 – 2003).  Whenever asked to contribute, Suzanne is always enthusiastically willing to give her time and wisdom for the benefit of the department.  
 

Outstanding Young Alumnus

Robyn Reynolds Jones
B.S. 1999

Upon completing her undergraduate degree, Magna Cum Laude, in Food Science at NC State, Robyn continued her studies with a study abroad experience in Asia, then on to graduate school at Michigan State University. While in school, Robyn was active in IFTSA, serving as student representative to the Employment Committee and chairing the Student Career Fair.

Robyn is currently a Science Policy Analyst with the Food and Drug Administration in Washington, DC. During her tenure with FDA, Robyn has received numerous awards for her contributions and teamwork.  She also continues her service to the community and profession through active involvement in national and regional IFT committees and events.  Robyn is also active in maintaining and strengthening NCSU Alumni support networks and is an avid Wolf Pack fan, still traveling to attend many home games.  She has served as the Capital Area NC State Alumni co-President for 2005-2007 and co-chaired an event in 2005 to raise money for the NCSU Eric Cranford Memorial Scholarship fund. Robyn has excelled professionally, established herself as a leader and represents NCSU, CALS and the Department of Food Science well.

OUTSTANDING INDUSTRY PARTNER

Mr. Larry Pierce, owner/manager of the Nahunta Pork Center

Mr. Pierce has supported the Food Science Department by allowing students to conduct major portions of their research within his operation.  During the remodeling of Schaub Hall, Larry allowed the Nahunta Pork Center to serve as a temporary “meat lab” while construction continued on campus. Larry has also opened his operation to undergraduate students as they conducted senior design projects.

Larry has served on various advisory committees dealing with the challenges that face the country ham industry in North Carolina and has participated in various workshops put on within the department.  His expertise and willingness to help has been a very valuable asset to researchers at NCSU.