The National Frozen & Refrigerated Foods Association (NFRA) announced 30 participants for its 2026 First Penguin Leadership Program, continuing the organization’s investment in developing the next generation of industry leaders.
The year-long program addresses a growing industry need for structured, cross-sector leadership development that builds strategic perspective, strengthens collaboration and accelerates leadership readiness among rising talent in dairy and frozen foods.
“The First Penguin Leadership Program is about investing in the people who will lead this industry forward,” said Tricia Greyshock, president and CEO of NFRA.
“The inaugural class reinforced the importance of creating space for emerging leaders to think strategically, challenge assumptions, and build the relationships that will shape the future of frozen and refrigerated foods.”
The program takes its name from the “First Penguin” theory, describing those willing to test uncharted waters amid unknown risk and lead others. The initiative recognizes individuals who demonstrate leadership potential, intellectual curiosity and commitment to advancing the frozen and refrigerated foods category.
Program structure
Participants engage in executive-level discussions and workshops, collaborative learning and hands-on projects designed to strengthen strategic thinking and cross-industry perspective.
Program components include leadership development sessions focused on strategic thinking, communication and decision-making; industry and retail immersion centered on supply chain, technology, merchandising and shopper insights; cross-sector collaboration with peers from across the frozen and refrigerated foods ecosystem; and capstone group case study presentations and recognition at the NFRA Convention.
“The First Penguin program created meaningful industry connections while fostering a genuine sense of camaraderie,” said Alyssa Panzarella, director of marketing at Mrs. T’s Pierogies.
“Learning alongside professionals with different backgrounds and perspectives challenged my thinking and expanded how I approach my work. Between the strong peer connections, open collaboration, and diverse viewpoints, I walked away with insights and relationships I’ll carry forward in my career.”
2026 Class
The First Penguin Leadership Class of 2026 includes:
- Thomas Broderick (Mars Ice Cream),
- Anthony Carnevale (Ajinomoto Foods North America),
- Michael Coleman (Jones Dairy Farm),
- Christine Colwell (AWG),
- Ryan DeColli (Bimbo Bakehouse),
- Kylund Facer (RecorGroup),
- Kat Fuson (Pitaya Foods),
- Kali Hill (UNFI),
- Tara Larson (JOH),
- Abby Lucchesi (Amy’s Kitchen),
- Melissa Luther (Land O’Lakes),
- Paige Moore (Daymon),
- Meghan Ozamiz (Rich Products),
- Yuki Palermo (InnovAsian Cuisine),
- Michael Powis (J&J Snack Foods Corp.),
- Sam Raggio (Kraft Heinz),
- Alek Ramoska (Island Way),
- Brittney Ratto (PuraVida Foods),
- Sam Ridenour (KBC Advisors),
- Sydney Rogers (Chobani),
- Lindsey Schickel (Kellanova),
- Daniel Sedgwick (The Coca-Cola Co.),
- Katherine Shaw (Chung’s Gourmet Foods),
- Stephanie Smith (Tru Fru),
- Owen Stehm (Rosina Food Products),
- Ryan Strahs-Lorenc (Nestlé USA),
- Morgan Stulpe (The Campbell’s Co.),
- Jenna Vaccaro (Douglas Sales),
- Lucas Vaccaro (Advantage Solutions); and
- Stewart Windham (Houchens Food Group).
The First Penguin Leadership Program reflects NFRA’s ongoing commitment to strengthening the leadership pipeline that will guide the frozen and refrigerated foods industry. By equipping emerging leaders with industry insights, executive networking access and cross-category collaboration, NFRA helps ensure the long-term vitality of the category.
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