The NCSA has opened registration for the 55th Candy Hall of Fame, a prestigious event that celebrates and honors 11 industry leaders whose careers have helped shape the confectionery industry. This distinguished class will be formally inducted during the NCSA’s annual gathering, taking place October 22–24 in Orlando, Florida, at the Signia by Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek, with the official induction ceremony held on Saturday, October 24.
“The Candy Hall of Fame is about more than recognizing career achievements; it’s about celebrating the people who have helped shape the future of our industry,” said Byard Ebling, NCSA President. “The Class of 2026 represents decades of leadership, innovation and service, and we’re excited to bring together colleagues, friends and family from across the confectionery community to honor their remarkable contributions this October in Orlando.”
The Candy Hall of Fame Class of 2026 consists of Allison Miazga-Bedrick, Mars Snacking; Dale Buys, The Walt Disney Company; Michael Flynn, Stribbons, Inc.; Juan Gallicchio, Thayer Distribution (posthumous); Tim Galloway, Galloway Company; Debra Harris, Shankman & Associates, Inc.; R. “Taz” Murray, Murray Asset Management; Katherine Phegley, Brown & Haley; Kaye Marie Powell, S. Abraham & Sons, Inc.; Michael Sitarz, Elmer Chocolate; and Alan Yarmaloff, CVS Health.
In addition to honoring the Class of 2026, the NCSA will present its Distinguished Service Award to Michael Rosenberg, President & CEO of PIM Brands, Inc., recognizing his decades of leadership, service and commitment to the association.
The weekend will feature a variety of networking, educational and celebratory events, including the Poolside Kickoff Party on Thursday evening, the Leadership Innovation Program and NCSA General Members Meeting on Friday and Saturday’s Candy Hall of Fame festivities, including the Reception, Dinner & Induction Ceremony and Afterparty.
“The Candy Hall of Fame has always been about recognizing extraordinary careers and the relationships that make this industry so unique,” said Teresa Tarantino, Executive Director of NCSA. “We look forward to welcoming attendees to Orlando as we honor the Class of 2026, recognize Michael Rosenberg and celebrate the shared passion and commitment that continue to drive the confectionery industry forward.”
