The National Frozen & Refrigerated Foods Association (NFRA) concluded its First Penguin Next Generation Leadership Program, a year-long initiative that equipped 30 rising professionals from across the frozen and refrigerated supply chain with leadership training, industry insight and cross-company collaboration.
Launched in January, the program was designed to fast-track leadership development and create space for forward-thinking perspectives from across the industry. Participants engaged in a structured curriculum that included immersive workshops, store tours, mentorship sessions, webinars and team-based projects designed to stretch their skills, deepen cross-category understanding and build industry connections.
The program culminated during the Monday Breakfast Session at the 2025 NFRA Convention, where participants delivered six-minute team presentations showcasing data-driven strategies addressing pressing industry challenges – including increasing household penetration, strengthening supply chain resilience, redefining retail innovation, engaging Gen Z and Millennials and balancing private label and national brand growth.
“This program was designed to accelerate the next generation of industry leadership,” said Tricia Greyshock, NFRA president and CEO.
“These participants didn’t just meet the moment – they brought forward real, actionable strategies that can move our categories forward. Their work reflects the kind of bold, collaborative thinking our industry thrives on.”
The First Penguin Program reinforces NFRA’s long-term commitment to investing in future leaders who will shape the direction of the frozen and refrigerated foods industry. More than a leadership workshop, it serves as a platform for emerging talent to gain cross-functional experience, strengthen industry connections and contribute new thinking to challenges and opportunities impacting the entire supply chain.
Congratulations to the First Penguin Class of 2025:
- Samantha Beam, Nestlé USA Inc.
- Cody Besgrove, Associated Wholesale Grocers (AWG)
- Eddy Birth, Mars Ice Cream
- Navi Bola, Albertsons Cos.
- Stevie Bryk, Our Home
- Ryan Busse, Palermo Villa Inc.
- Tony Caloroso, Schraad Sales & Marketing
- Conor Carpenter, Kellanova
- Paula Colatriano, JOH
- Michael Crawford, Rich’s Consumer Brands
- Grace Donnelly, formerly with Acosta
- Jeremiah Freeman, Babbs Supermarket
- Peter Fulton, Lactalis American Group
- Armin Hadziomerovic, Houchens Food Group
- Tyler Harvey, Dairy Farmers of America
- Lisa Heard, InnovAsian Cuisine
- Jasmine Herazo, Quirch Foods
- Alexis Herbert, Daymon
- Casey Hom, Coca-Cola North America
- Sandra Horn, CA Ferolie
- Shane Jacobson, Associated Food Stores LLC
- Natalie Larson, United States Cold Storage Inc.
- Kim Larsson, Painterland Sisters
- Daniel Menkens, RecorGroup LLC
- Anne Wallis Nelson, The Pictsweet Co.
- Kristin Niles, Kraft Heinz Co.
- Alyssa Panzarella, Ateeco Inc./Mrs. T’s Pierogies
- Isabelle Steiner, Rosina Food Products Inc.
- Peggy Warning, Simek’s
- Jamie Yobbi, Giant Eagle Inc.
Applications for the 2026 First Penguin class will open in early December. The program is open to early- and mid-career professionals under 40 who demonstrate leadership potential and a commitment to advancing the frozen and refrigerated categories.
[RELATED: 2 Leaders To Be Inducted Into 2025 NFRA Refrigerated Food Hall Of Fame]