NCSA Honors Candy Hall of Fame Members

On Oct. 25, 11 confectionery industry members were inducted into the 2025 class.

2025 candy hall of fame members — Courtesy of NCSA

The National Confectionery Sales Association (NCSA) recently honored 11 industry leaders who have significantly impacted the confectionery industry during its 54^th Candy Hall of Fame induction ceremony. The event celebrated the Candy Hall of Fame Class of 2025 at the Signia by Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek in Orlando, FL, on Saturday, October 25, during a black-tie banquet.

The 2025 Candy Hall of Fame inductees were:

John Brooks, Jr., Adams & Brooks, Inc.
Jim Dodge, Mars Wrigley
Mike Farley, Goetze’s Candy Co., Inc.
Robin Gutridge, Raley’s Supermarkets
Betsy Harris, HWY Partners
Tom Rosenberger, Sheetz Inc.
Eric Schmoyer, IRCA Group Americas
Sherrill Taylor, Burdette Beckmann Inc. (posthumous)
Lynn Wieland, Spangler Candy Co.
Dennis Williams, National Convenience Distributors
Andrew Young, HWY Partners

“Every year, the Candy Hall of Fame shines a spotlight on individuals who have dedicated their lives to this industry,” says Byard Ebling, NCSA president and CEO. “Each inductee brings a legacy of passion, leadership and innovation that not only strengthens our industry today but also lights the way for its future.”

Since 1971, the Candy Hall of Fame has recognized lifetime career achievements in the confectionery industry. Candy Hall of Fame members come from all disciplines within the confectionery industry, must have at least 20 years of service to the confectionery industry (buyers must have at least 10 years of experience) and must be 50 years of age at the time of nomination. Honorees should demonstrate loyalty to building and supporting the confectionery industry through active participation over and above job requirements.

“The Candy Hall of Fame is more than a celebration of individual achievement–it’s a reminder of what makes this industry so special: the people,” says Teresa Tarantino, executive director, NCSA. “The stories and contributions of these 11 inductees are now a part of the permanent record of our industry, serving as a guidepost for generations to come.”

Nearly 420 representatives from the confectionery industry, along with friends and family members, were present for the event, including more than 60 Candy Hall of Fame members who returned to welcome the new class.