Speakers
Fatma Ali, FMA Consulting, LLC
For the past 30 years, Fatma Ali has served Electrical Engineering, Quality Management Systems of Oil and Gas, Electronics, Research Equipment and Medical Device. For the past 12 years, her focus was concentrated in developing quality management systems for class I, II and II for medical devices.
As a Director of Quality and Regulatory, she submitted successful 510Ks to the FDA and CE Mark approval to Notified Bodies. She served different type of medical devices such as cochlear implants, cardiovascular catheters, patient temperature management devices, and software for infusion pumps.
Her knowledge of standards and regulations made her the quality and regulatory advisor for new product development teams. This led her to start her own company FMA consulting, LLC in 2012 to help start-up companies evaluating their quality systems for the readiness of ISO 13485 certification and product submissions.
Fatma Ali is an ASQ CQA and CQM/OE certified by the American Society for Quality. She is also an Exemplar Global certified for Lead Auditor of ISO 13485:2016 and ISO 9001:2015.
Last year, she joined The Notified Body, DNV Nemko Presafe, DNV GL Business Assurance USA as a Lead Auditor for ISO 13485 and 9001. Her passion for safety and efficacy of medical device drives her steps to building a high quality and compliant medical devices quality management systems.
For the past 30 years, Fatma Ali has served Electrical Engineering, Quality Management Systems of Oil and Gas, Electronics, Research Equipment and Medical Device. For the past 12 years, her focus was concentrated in developing quality management systems for class I, II and II for medical devices.
As a Director of Quality and Regulatory, she submitted successful 510Ks to the FDA and CE Mark approval to Notified Bodies. She served different type of medical devices such as cochlear implants, cardiovascular catheters, patient temperature management devices, and software for infusion pumps.
Her knowledge of standards and regulations made her the quality and regulatory advisor for new product development teams. This led her to start her own company FMA consulting, LLC in 2012 to help start-up companies evaluating their quality systems for the readiness of ISO 13485 certification and product submissions.
Fatma Ali is an ASQ CQA and CQM/OE certified by the American Society for Quality. She is also an Exemplar Global certified for Lead Auditor of ISO 13485:2016 and ISO 9001:2015.
Last year, she joined The Notified Body, DNV Nemko Presafe, DNV GL Business Assurance USA as a Lead Auditor for ISO 13485 and 9001. Her passion for safety and efficacy of medical device drives her steps to building a high quality and compliant medical devices quality management systems.
Jeremy Applen, Vice Charman, ASTM International Cannabis Standards Committee
Jeremy Applen entered the cannabis arena with a background in pharmaceutical research and development, including experience gained at Pfizer and the Department of Veterans Affairs Cooperative Studies Program Clinical Pharmacy Coordinating Center.
Founding Page Analytical, New Mexico’s first state-approved Medical Cannabis Testing Facility, Jeremy worked with the New Mexico Department of Health, Medical Cannabis Program, in drafting regulatory guidelines and improving alignment with regulations utilized by the US Food and Drug Administration for analogous products. Since that time, he has worked closely with government regulators and numerous cannabis organizations both nationally and internationally, to resolve significant issues related to regulations, product quality and product safety.
Jeremy currently serves as the Vice Chairman of the ASTM International Cannabis Standards Committee and has spoken throughout the US on topics such as the practical and technical issues faced by cannabis laboratories.
Jeremy Applen entered the cannabis arena with a background in pharmaceutical research and development, including experience gained at Pfizer and the Department of Veterans Affairs Cooperative Studies Program Clinical Pharmacy Coordinating Center.
Founding Page Analytical, New Mexico’s first state-approved Medical Cannabis Testing Facility, Jeremy worked with the New Mexico Department of Health, Medical Cannabis Program, in drafting regulatory guidelines and improving alignment with regulations utilized by the US Food and Drug Administration for analogous products. Since that time, he has worked closely with government regulators and numerous cannabis organizations both nationally and internationally, to resolve significant issues related to regulations, product quality and product safety.
Jeremy currently serves as the Vice Chairman of the ASTM International Cannabis Standards Committee and has spoken throughout the US on topics such as the practical and technical issues faced by cannabis laboratories.
Christine Applewhite, Certified Inspection/Training Officer & FDA Commissioned Officer, Food and Drug Administration
Christine Applewhite is a 1997 graduate of the University of North Carolina-Wilmington, majoring in Biology. Her career began as a microbiologist, working for various biotech and pharmaceutical companies until joining the public sector in 1999 as an employee for USDA at Plum Island Animal Research Center, Plum Island, NY. Christine left USDA and began a career with the State of Connecticut, first as a Microbiologist and then as an Environmental Sanitarian within the Food Protection Program. Christine also spent almost 5 years working for a local health department conducting foodservice inspections. She has been involved with countless foodborne outbreak investigations, is noted as a contributing author on multiple posters, abstracts, and journal articles, and is considered to be the “traceback guru” for Connecticut cases during multi-state outbreak investigations. Christine is a 2011 graduate of the CDC Environmental Public Health Leadership Institute, is recognized by FDA as a Certified Inspection/Training Officer, as well as a FDA Commissioned Officer.
While not working, Christine has a passion for cooking, gardening, drinking good wine, and camping with her family in their travel trailer. She continues to attend school part-time, pursuing a degree in Histology.
Christine Applewhite is a 1997 graduate of the University of North Carolina-Wilmington, majoring in Biology. Her career began as a microbiologist, working for various biotech and pharmaceutical companies until joining the public sector in 1999 as an employee for USDA at Plum Island Animal Research Center, Plum Island, NY. Christine left USDA and began a career with the State of Connecticut, first as a Microbiologist and then as an Environmental Sanitarian within the Food Protection Program. Christine also spent almost 5 years working for a local health department conducting foodservice inspections. She has been involved with countless foodborne outbreak investigations, is noted as a contributing author on multiple posters, abstracts, and journal articles, and is considered to be the “traceback guru” for Connecticut cases during multi-state outbreak investigations. Christine is a 2011 graduate of the CDC Environmental Public Health Leadership Institute, is recognized by FDA as a Certified Inspection/Training Officer, as well as a FDA Commissioned Officer.
While not working, Christine has a passion for cooking, gardening, drinking good wine, and camping with her family in their travel trailer. She continues to attend school part-time, pursuing a degree in Histology.
Dr. Kevin L. Armbrust, Professor and Chairman, Louisiana State University
Dr. Kevin L. Armbrust is a professor and is the current chairman of the department of Environmental Sciences in the College of the Coast and Environment at Louisiana State University. He received both his B.S. degree in Environmental Toxicology and his Ph.D. in Agricultural and Environmental Chemistry from the University of California at Davis. He was employed by DuPont Agricultural Products as a regulatory scientist and has held faculty positions at the University of Georgia and at Mississippi State University as well an appointed position as the State Chemist of Mississippi. He has chaired the division of Agrochemicals of the American Chemical Society and has also served in leadership positions on the board of directors of the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) and as an AAFCO board liaison to the Association of Food and Drug Officials (AFDO) board. He currently holds an appointment on FDA’s Food Advisory Committee and sits on the Seafood Committee and Laboratory Science and Technology committee for AFDO. His research interests include assessments of the fate and effects of pesticides and other chemicals in and upon Louisiana watersheds, wetlands and coastal areas especially as they impact the regulatory sciences, as well as risks associated with chemical contaminants in manufactured and retail food.
Dr. Kevin L. Armbrust is a professor and is the current chairman of the department of Environmental Sciences in the College of the Coast and Environment at Louisiana State University. He received both his B.S. degree in Environmental Toxicology and his Ph.D. in Agricultural and Environmental Chemistry from the University of California at Davis. He was employed by DuPont Agricultural Products as a regulatory scientist and has held faculty positions at the University of Georgia and at Mississippi State University as well an appointed position as the State Chemist of Mississippi. He has chaired the division of Agrochemicals of the American Chemical Society and has also served in leadership positions on the board of directors of the Association of American Feed Control Officials (AAFCO) and as an AAFCO board liaison to the Association of Food and Drug Officials (AFDO) board. He currently holds an appointment on FDA’s Food Advisory Committee and sits on the Seafood Committee and Laboratory Science and Technology committee for AFDO. His research interests include assessments of the fate and effects of pesticides and other chemicals in and upon Louisiana watersheds, wetlands and coastal areas especially as they impact the regulatory sciences, as well as risks associated with chemical contaminants in manufactured and retail food.
John Avellanet, Director, Cerulean Associates LLC
Managing Director of Cerulean Associates LLC, is an award-winning data integrity compliance expert known for his business-savvy, pragmatic consulting advice and friendly, engaging speaking style. Mr. Avellanet was the industry expert reviewer for the international standard, Evidential Weight and Legal Admissibility of Electronic Information (BSI 10008), co-authored the book, Pharmaceutical Regulatory Inspections (2014) along with several current and former regulatory agency officers from Health Canada, WHO, MHRA, and EMA, and from 2011-2016 served on behalf of the US Department of Justice and the HHS Office of Inspector General to oversee a multi-million-dollar corporate integrity agreement (CIA). Mr.
Avellanet’s industry classic book, Get to Market Now! Turn FDA Compliance into a Competitive Edge, was featured at BIO 2011. And in both 2009 and 2011, Mr. Avellanet won the “Best of Business” award from the US Small Business Commerce Association. Over the past 10 years, he has been interviewed on public radio programs, in numerous industry magazines, and multiple international news outlets.
Managing Director of Cerulean Associates LLC, is an award-winning data integrity compliance expert known for his business-savvy, pragmatic consulting advice and friendly, engaging speaking style. Mr. Avellanet was the industry expert reviewer for the international standard, Evidential Weight and Legal Admissibility of Electronic Information (BSI 10008), co-authored the book, Pharmaceutical Regulatory Inspections (2014) along with several current and former regulatory agency officers from Health Canada, WHO, MHRA, and EMA, and from 2011-2016 served on behalf of the US Department of Justice and the HHS Office of Inspector General to oversee a multi-million-dollar corporate integrity agreement (CIA). Mr.
Avellanet’s industry classic book, Get to Market Now! Turn FDA Compliance into a Competitive Edge, was featured at BIO 2011. And in both 2009 and 2011, Mr. Avellanet won the “Best of Business” award from the US Small Business Commerce Association. Over the past 10 years, he has been interviewed on public radio programs, in numerous industry magazines, and multiple international news outlets.
Dennis E. Baker, Retired, U.S. Food and Drug Administration
Mr. Baker began his distinguished career with the Texas Department of Health, Division of Food and Drugs, as an Investigator in the Dallas/Fort Worth area. As his career progressed he was ultimately appointed the Bureau Chief, Bureau of Food and Drug Safety. In that capacity he developed model laws, and presided over statewide regulatory programs that included all foods (including meat safety), drugs, and medical products. It also included the regulation of narcotic treatment programs, body art facilities, and tanning salons. Dennis retired from the State of Texas with his selection as the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) Associate Commissioner for Regulatory Affairs (ACRA) in March 1999.
As the ACRA, FDA’s “Top Cop,” he provided oversight to all FDA Regulatory and Law Enforcement Activities nationally and internationally. He was also responsible for regulatory policy development, and worked with the Centers, other Federal Agencies, and the States to ensure uniformity of regulation and law enforcement.
Following his service as ACRA, Mr. Baker became the Regional Food and Drug Director (RFDD) for FDA’s Southwest Region in January 2003. In that capacity, he managed all FDA programs within that 11 state Region. This included four District Offices and three Regional Laboratories. Dennis retired from FDA on October 31, 2015 after 42 years of public service.
Dennis has served and continues to serve on the boards, committees or councils of several organizations involved in the development of laws, regulations, policies, and procedures in the areas of foods, drugs, medical devices and cosmetics. He is a past president of the Association of Food and Drug Officials and a recipient of the prestigious Harvey W. Wiley Award. Mr. Baker has also been honored with numerous HHS and FDA Awards during his service, and was also honored by induction into the Texas Food Processors Association Hall of Fame. He has also received numerous Military Awards during his thirty years of Active and Reserve service in the U.S. Air Force.
Mr. Baker is a graduate of Texas State University, receiving a Bachelor’s degree in Biology and a Master’s degree in Public Administration.
Dennis and his wife, Missy, have two daughters and two grandchildren residing in Austin, Texas.
Mr. Baker began his distinguished career with the Texas Department of Health, Division of Food and Drugs, as an Investigator in the Dallas/Fort Worth area. As his career progressed he was ultimately appointed the Bureau Chief, Bureau of Food and Drug Safety. In that capacity he developed model laws, and presided over statewide regulatory programs that included all foods (including meat safety), drugs, and medical products. It also included the regulation of narcotic treatment programs, body art facilities, and tanning salons. Dennis retired from the State of Texas with his selection as the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) Associate Commissioner for Regulatory Affairs (ACRA) in March 1999.
As the ACRA, FDA’s “Top Cop,” he provided oversight to all FDA Regulatory and Law Enforcement Activities nationally and internationally. He was also responsible for regulatory policy development, and worked with the Centers, other Federal Agencies, and the States to ensure uniformity of regulation and law enforcement.
Following his service as ACRA, Mr. Baker became the Regional Food and Drug Director (RFDD) for FDA’s Southwest Region in January 2003. In that capacity, he managed all FDA programs within that 11 state Region. This included four District Offices and three Regional Laboratories. Dennis retired from FDA on October 31, 2015 after 42 years of public service.
Dennis has served and continues to serve on the boards, committees or councils of several organizations involved in the development of laws, regulations, policies, and procedures in the areas of foods, drugs, medical devices and cosmetics. He is a past president of the Association of Food and Drug Officials and a recipient of the prestigious Harvey W. Wiley Award. Mr. Baker has also been honored with numerous HHS and FDA Awards during his service, and was also honored by induction into the Texas Food Processors Association Hall of Fame. He has also received numerous Military Awards during his thirty years of Active and Reserve service in the U.S. Air Force.
Mr. Baker is a graduate of Texas State University, receiving a Bachelor’s degree in Biology and a Master’s degree in Public Administration.
Dennis and his wife, Missy, have two daughters and two grandchildren residing in Austin, Texas.
Colin Barthel, policy analyst, FDA's Food Defense and Emergency Coordination Staff in the Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition
Colin Barthel is a policy analyst with FDA’s Food Defense and Emergency Coordination Staff in the Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition. Mr. Barthel has been working in food defense for over 10 years and has been intimately involved in FDA’s vulnerability assessment program since 2006. Colin serves as a major contributor for the Food Safety Modernization Act Intentional Adulteration rule and the development of guidance. He is also a lead for the development of the implementation strategy for the IA rule.
Colin Barthel is a policy analyst with FDA’s Food Defense and Emergency Coordination Staff in the Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition. Mr. Barthel has been working in food defense for over 10 years and has been intimately involved in FDA’s vulnerability assessment program since 2006. Colin serves as a major contributor for the Food Safety Modernization Act Intentional Adulteration rule and the development of guidance. He is also a lead for the development of the implementation strategy for the IA rule.
JoAnna Beck, Food Safety Farm Consultant, Indiana State Department of Health
JoAnna Beck is currently employed by the Indiana State Department of Health as a Food Safety Farm Consultant. She earned a Bachelor's of Science in Agriculture Business from Northwest Missouri State University and is currently pursuing a Master of Public Administration from the University of Southern Indiana. JoAnna has extensive knowledge and experience in fresh produce from working in the private sector for a large produce firm and currently she consults with and educates produce growers in Indiana on the best food safety practices for their operation. She enjoys cycling and spending time with her husband and two children. Mentor: Steve Steinhoff
JoAnna Beck is currently employed by the Indiana State Department of Health as a Food Safety Farm Consultant. She earned a Bachelor's of Science in Agriculture Business from Northwest Missouri State University and is currently pursuing a Master of Public Administration from the University of Southern Indiana. JoAnna has extensive knowledge and experience in fresh produce from working in the private sector for a large produce firm and currently she consults with and educates produce growers in Indiana on the best food safety practices for their operation. She enjoys cycling and spending time with her husband and two children. Mentor: Steve Steinhoff
Byron Beerbower, Investigator, Consumer Safety Officer Produce Safety Network
Byron Beerbower, Investigator – Consumer Safety Officer Produce Safety Network. He started with the FDA in November 2016, after a 29-year career with the Michigan Dept. of Agriculture and Rural Development. His current duties are focused on the development and implementation of the structure needed to support the Produce Safety Rule at the state, federal and international level. In his first few months specifically he has been working on the development of training for regulatory staff and issues surrounding the development of an inventory of farms under the jurisdiction of the rule.
Byron Beerbower, Investigator – Consumer Safety Officer Produce Safety Network. He started with the FDA in November 2016, after a 29-year career with the Michigan Dept. of Agriculture and Rural Development. His current duties are focused on the development and implementation of the structure needed to support the Produce Safety Rule at the state, federal and international level. In his first few months specifically he has been working on the development of training for regulatory staff and issues surrounding the development of an inventory of farms under the jurisdiction of the rule.
Karen Blickenstaff, Team Leader, Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Coordinated Outbreak Response and Evaluation Network (CORE)
Karen Blickenstaff is a Response Team Leader with the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) Coordinated Outbreak Response and Evaluation Network (CORE). In this role, she supervises a multidisciplinary team as they coordinate the agency’s response to foodborne outbreaks. The team is responsible for coordinating information flow across organizations during an outbreak response, evaluating incoming data (environmental, epidemiologic, and laboratory) to help inform response strategies, and conducting traceback investigations. Prior to her role with CORE, Karen held positions in FDA’s Center for Veterinary Medicine, Office of Research and FDA’s Office of Regulatory Affairs, Office of Regulatory Science. Karen received both her B.S. (Biology) and M.S. (Food Science) from University of Maryland, College Park.
Karen Blickenstaff is a Response Team Leader with the Food and Drug Administration’s (FDA) Coordinated Outbreak Response and Evaluation Network (CORE). In this role, she supervises a multidisciplinary team as they coordinate the agency’s response to foodborne outbreaks. The team is responsible for coordinating information flow across organizations during an outbreak response, evaluating incoming data (environmental, epidemiologic, and laboratory) to help inform response strategies, and conducting traceback investigations. Prior to her role with CORE, Karen held positions in FDA’s Center for Veterinary Medicine, Office of Research and FDA’s Office of Regulatory Affairs, Office of Regulatory Science. Karen received both her B.S. (Biology) and M.S. (Food Science) from University of Maryland, College Park.
Tamas Borsai, Division Manager of Non-Active Medical Devices, TUV SUD America Inc
Tamas Borsai is a Division Manager of Non-Active Medical Devices at TUV SUD America Inc. Tamas has over 20 years of experience in auditing medical devices manufacturers in the US, Europe and in Asia. In the past he held positions as lead auditor, technical certifier and country manager. Much of his technical expertise is focused on active medical devices as a graduated electric engineer and IT expert.
Tamas Borsai is a Division Manager of Non-Active Medical Devices at TUV SUD America Inc. Tamas has over 20 years of experience in auditing medical devices manufacturers in the US, Europe and in Asia. In the past he held positions as lead auditor, technical certifier and country manager. Much of his technical expertise is focused on active medical devices as a graduated electric engineer and IT expert.
Camille E. Brewer, M.S., R.D, Director, International Affairs Staff, Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition (CFSAN) and Office of Food and Veterinary Medicine (OFVM), Office of the Commissioner, U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
Ms. Brewer joined FDA in 1992 as a nutritionist and regulatory writer. She was quickly promoted to Team Leader for Regulations Policy Development at CFSAN’s former Office of Food Labeling. Ms Brewer is the principal author of numerous regulations regarding Nutrition Facts labeling, label claims, and dietary supplement claims. In 1996, she joined FDA’s Food Safety Staff as International Activities Coordinator for Food Safety. In this capacity, she developed and implemented an aggressive international outreach, education, and capacity building strategy on food safety by developing strong partnerships with organizations such as the World Bank, the InterAmerican Development Bank, the Foreign Agricultural Service and the United States Agency for International Development. She was promoted to the position of Deputy Director of the Office of Nutrition, Labeling, and Dietary Supplements in 2004. Ms. Brewer was appointed Director of the International Activities Staff in September 2008. Ms. Brewer provides executive leadership for a variety of international activities including Codex Alimentarius, capacity building, equivalence and recognition programs, and public health and trade pertaining to foods, nutrition, labeling, and cosmetics. In 2010, she assumed additional duties as the Senior Advisor for International Affairs for the Office of Foods, within the Office of the Commissioner at FDA. Currently, she enjoys a dual title as Director for International Affairs for CFSAN as well as for the newly named Office of Foods and Veterinary Medicine.
Ms. Brewer is the recipient of the 1998 United States Public Health Service Award for Dietitian of the Year. She is a two-time winner of FDA’s Award of Merit, the agency’s highest honor award, for her work in international food safety and food defense.
Before joining FDA, Ms. Brewer served as corporate dietitian for Central Park Lodges, a chain of retirement facilities owned by Trizec Corporation and earlier, as Administrator for Nutrition Services at United Cerebral Associations of New York State.
Ms. Brewer earned her Masters Degree in Public Health Nutrition at the Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio and she is a registered dietitian. She has a Bachelor's degree in political science from Lincoln University in Oxford, Pennsylvania.
Ms. Brewer joined FDA in 1992 as a nutritionist and regulatory writer. She was quickly promoted to Team Leader for Regulations Policy Development at CFSAN’s former Office of Food Labeling. Ms Brewer is the principal author of numerous regulations regarding Nutrition Facts labeling, label claims, and dietary supplement claims. In 1996, she joined FDA’s Food Safety Staff as International Activities Coordinator for Food Safety. In this capacity, she developed and implemented an aggressive international outreach, education, and capacity building strategy on food safety by developing strong partnerships with organizations such as the World Bank, the InterAmerican Development Bank, the Foreign Agricultural Service and the United States Agency for International Development. She was promoted to the position of Deputy Director of the Office of Nutrition, Labeling, and Dietary Supplements in 2004. Ms. Brewer was appointed Director of the International Activities Staff in September 2008. Ms. Brewer provides executive leadership for a variety of international activities including Codex Alimentarius, capacity building, equivalence and recognition programs, and public health and trade pertaining to foods, nutrition, labeling, and cosmetics. In 2010, she assumed additional duties as the Senior Advisor for International Affairs for the Office of Foods, within the Office of the Commissioner at FDA. Currently, she enjoys a dual title as Director for International Affairs for CFSAN as well as for the newly named Office of Foods and Veterinary Medicine.
Ms. Brewer is the recipient of the 1998 United States Public Health Service Award for Dietitian of the Year. She is a two-time winner of FDA’s Award of Merit, the agency’s highest honor award, for her work in international food safety and food defense.
Before joining FDA, Ms. Brewer served as corporate dietitian for Central Park Lodges, a chain of retirement facilities owned by Trizec Corporation and earlier, as Administrator for Nutrition Services at United Cerebral Associations of New York State.
Ms. Brewer earned her Masters Degree in Public Health Nutrition at the Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland, Ohio and she is a registered dietitian. She has a Bachelor's degree in political science from Lincoln University in Oxford, Pennsylvania.
Sean Brown, Director, Republic Tattoo Supply
Sean Brown is an entrepreneur and tattoo artist based out of Austin, Texas. He specializes in reconstructive tattooing for mastectomy patients. Sean is a former Army Medic and is an OSHA Authorized Outreach Trainer. Sean is the director of Republic Tattoo Supply providing tattooing supplies to professional tattoo studios.
Sean Brown is an entrepreneur and tattoo artist based out of Austin, Texas. He specializes in reconstructive tattooing for mastectomy patients. Sean is a former Army Medic and is an OSHA Authorized Outreach Trainer. Sean is the director of Republic Tattoo Supply providing tattooing supplies to professional tattoo studios.
Barbara Cassens, Director, Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Office of Regulatory Affairs (ORA), Office of Partnerships (OP)
Barbara Cassens is the Director for, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Office of Regulatory Affairs (ORA), Office of Partnerships (OP). In her role as the Director of OP, she is responsible for the oversight, strategic planning, collaboration and integration with our federal, state, local, tribal, territorial and, global partners, supporting enhanced investments for manufactured human and animal food safety standards. Barbara also manages the team that is responsible for supporting the federally mandated, Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA).
Barbara began her career with the FDA in 1990 as a field investigator and then assumed the role as Director of the Pacific Region Cooperative Programs and San Francisco District Director. Prior to joining the FDA, she worked in the private sector for Nestle, Dole Packaged Foods, and John Labatt, LLC.
Ms. Cassens holds a Bachelor of Science Degree from Iowa State University. She is the former president of the Western Association of Food and Drug Officials, (WAFDO) and is active in the parent organization, the Association of Food and Drug Officials (AFDO). Also, she is an active member of the Institute of Food Technologists (IFTs) and the International Association for Food Protection (IAFP).
Barbara Cassens is the Director for, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Office of Regulatory Affairs (ORA), Office of Partnerships (OP). In her role as the Director of OP, she is responsible for the oversight, strategic planning, collaboration and integration with our federal, state, local, tribal, territorial and, global partners, supporting enhanced investments for manufactured human and animal food safety standards. Barbara also manages the team that is responsible for supporting the federally mandated, Food Safety Modernization Act (FSMA).
Barbara began her career with the FDA in 1990 as a field investigator and then assumed the role as Director of the Pacific Region Cooperative Programs and San Francisco District Director. Prior to joining the FDA, she worked in the private sector for Nestle, Dole Packaged Foods, and John Labatt, LLC.
Ms. Cassens holds a Bachelor of Science Degree from Iowa State University. She is the former president of the Western Association of Food and Drug Officials, (WAFDO) and is active in the parent organization, the Association of Food and Drug Officials (AFDO). Also, she is an active member of the Institute of Food Technologists (IFTs) and the International Association for Food Protection (IAFP).
Todd Cato, District Director, Southwest Import District - Food and Drug Administration
Todd Cato received a Bachelors degree in Biology from Trinity University in San Antonio, TX in 1987. He continued his education and received a Master’s of Science in Entomology from the University of Wisconsin in 1989. He began his career with FDA in 1990 as an entomologist with the former Dallas District Laboratory. In 1994, he accepted a position as a compliance officer within the import section of the Dallas District Investigations Branch. While a compliance officer, he had the opportunity to participate in several precedent setting cases including the importation of potentially dangerous human tissue and the enforcement of a corporate wide consent decree related to the importation of contaminated dialysis blood lines. With the implementation of OASIS, Mr. Cato coordinated an effort by the Southwest Region to provide import coverage for the entire region from the Dallas Import office. The successful completion of this project provided a starting point for the eventual formation of the Southwest Import District. In 2001, he accepted a position as the Director of Compliance for the newly formed Southwest Import District. In 2010, Mr. Cato was selected as the District Director for the Southwest Import District, the position he currently holds.
Todd Cato received a Bachelors degree in Biology from Trinity University in San Antonio, TX in 1987. He continued his education and received a Master’s of Science in Entomology from the University of Wisconsin in 1989. He began his career with FDA in 1990 as an entomologist with the former Dallas District Laboratory. In 1994, he accepted a position as a compliance officer within the import section of the Dallas District Investigations Branch. While a compliance officer, he had the opportunity to participate in several precedent setting cases including the importation of potentially dangerous human tissue and the enforcement of a corporate wide consent decree related to the importation of contaminated dialysis blood lines. With the implementation of OASIS, Mr. Cato coordinated an effort by the Southwest Region to provide import coverage for the entire region from the Dallas Import office. The successful completion of this project provided a starting point for the eventual formation of the Southwest Import District. In 2001, he accepted a position as the Director of Compliance for the newly formed Southwest Import District. In 2010, Mr. Cato was selected as the District Director for the Southwest Import District, the position he currently holds.
Ruth Clay, Health Director, City of Melrose
Ruth Clay has been the Health Director for the City of Melrose for 20 years and both Melrose and the Town of Wakefield for 9 years. She has also been the Health Director in Reading, MA and Vail, Colorado. The programs in her department include not only food protection but also public health nursing, school nurses, housing and nuisance complaints, substance abuse prevention, tobacco control, anti-obesity and animal control. She has a Masters Degree in Public Health from the Harvard School of Public Health and an undergraduate degree from Tufts University.
Ruth Clay has been the Health Director for the City of Melrose for 20 years and both Melrose and the Town of Wakefield for 9 years. She has also been the Health Director in Reading, MA and Vail, Colorado. The programs in her department include not only food protection but also public health nursing, school nurses, housing and nuisance complaints, substance abuse prevention, tobacco control, anti-obesity and animal control. She has a Masters Degree in Public Health from the Harvard School of Public Health and an undergraduate degree from Tufts University.
Erik Coleman, Health Scientist (Informatics), National Center for Environmental Health (NCEH) at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
Erik Coleman is a Health Scientist (Informatics) with the National Center for Environmental Health (NCEH) at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). He holds a BS in Health Science with a minor in Information Technology from George Mason University (Fairfax, VA) and a Masters of Public Health degree from Howard University (Washington, DC). In 2005, Erik entered the public health arena functioning as an Environmental Health Specialist with the Fairfax County Health Department, Food Safety Section. In 2008, he functioned as a Salmonella Database Manager with PulseNet USA within CDC’s National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases (NCEZID). Currently, Erik supports the Environmental Health Specialists Network (EHS-Net) within NCEH whose mission is to improve environmental health practice. He serves as a Health Scientist (Informatics) supporting the National Environmental Assessment Reporting System (NEARS), the e-Learning on Environmental Assessment of Foodborne Illness Outbreaks and other related activities that aid in understanding and preventing environmental causes of foodborne illness outbreaks.
Erik Coleman is a Health Scientist (Informatics) with the National Center for Environmental Health (NCEH) at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). He holds a BS in Health Science with a minor in Information Technology from George Mason University (Fairfax, VA) and a Masters of Public Health degree from Howard University (Washington, DC). In 2005, Erik entered the public health arena functioning as an Environmental Health Specialist with the Fairfax County Health Department, Food Safety Section. In 2008, he functioned as a Salmonella Database Manager with PulseNet USA within CDC’s National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases (NCEZID). Currently, Erik supports the Environmental Health Specialists Network (EHS-Net) within NCEH whose mission is to improve environmental health practice. He serves as a Health Scientist (Informatics) supporting the National Environmental Assessment Reporting System (NEARS), the e-Learning on Environmental Assessment of Foodborne Illness Outbreaks and other related activities that aid in understanding and preventing environmental causes of foodborne illness outbreaks.
Matthew Coleman, Environmental Manager, Manufactured Food Program, Division of Food Safety with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS)
Matthew Coleman is working as an Environmental Manager in the Manufactured Food Program, Division of Food Safety with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). He obtained his Bachelor of Science in Environmental Studies in December 1998. In July 2005, he earned his Registered Sanitarian(RS) and continues to maintain this credential through National Environmental Health Association (NEHA). In 2016, Matthew, earned his Certified Professional in Food Safety (CP-FS) through NEHA.
In May of 1999, Matthew found his passion for Public Health after he began his career with the Florida Department of Health (FDOH) working as a field inspector in multiple programmatic areas: food, onsite wastewater(septic), group care, public pools and bathing area, rabies prevention, healthy beaches, tanning, mobile home and RV parks, and onsite drinking water. In 2004, Matthew became an Environmental Supervisor managing both programs and field personnel in multiple Public Health programs. In 2005, while working for FDOH, Matthew began working with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to create and present presentations for the Environmental Health Training in Emergency Response (ETHER) courses. Matthew presented the Wastewater module at: CDC, Department of Homeland Security (DHS), National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), 2007 NEHA conference, and several Florida County Health Departments. Matthew continued this partnership work until 2012 and coming aboard with FDACS. For his 18-year Public Health career, Matthew has over 700 Continuing Education training hours in Public Health.
In his current role with the Division of Food Safety, Matthew is responsible for the recruiting, hiring and training of field inspectors to work in our now further specialized Manufactured Food Program. During program maintenance, he is continually advising and further developing the senior inspectors that are the “boots on the ground” trainers for new Manufactured Food trainees and inspectors. Matthew acts as both a manager and, due to his broad Public Health knowledge and experience, a technical advisor to industry, field inspectors, supervisors, other managers and administration.
Matthew has developed and maintained networks with sister agencies, other state and federal agencies, and industry. He continues to prove himself as a leader in Public Health and eagerly seeks out increased responsibility and training. Mentor: Cameron Smoak
Matthew Coleman is working as an Environmental Manager in the Manufactured Food Program, Division of Food Safety with the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (FDACS). He obtained his Bachelor of Science in Environmental Studies in December 1998. In July 2005, he earned his Registered Sanitarian(RS) and continues to maintain this credential through National Environmental Health Association (NEHA). In 2016, Matthew, earned his Certified Professional in Food Safety (CP-FS) through NEHA.
In May of 1999, Matthew found his passion for Public Health after he began his career with the Florida Department of Health (FDOH) working as a field inspector in multiple programmatic areas: food, onsite wastewater(septic), group care, public pools and bathing area, rabies prevention, healthy beaches, tanning, mobile home and RV parks, and onsite drinking water. In 2004, Matthew became an Environmental Supervisor managing both programs and field personnel in multiple Public Health programs. In 2005, while working for FDOH, Matthew began working with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to create and present presentations for the Environmental Health Training in Emergency Response (ETHER) courses. Matthew presented the Wastewater module at: CDC, Department of Homeland Security (DHS), National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), 2007 NEHA conference, and several Florida County Health Departments. Matthew continued this partnership work until 2012 and coming aboard with FDACS. For his 18-year Public Health career, Matthew has over 700 Continuing Education training hours in Public Health.
In his current role with the Division of Food Safety, Matthew is responsible for the recruiting, hiring and training of field inspectors to work in our now further specialized Manufactured Food Program. During program maintenance, he is continually advising and further developing the senior inspectors that are the “boots on the ground” trainers for new Manufactured Food trainees and inspectors. Matthew acts as both a manager and, due to his broad Public Health knowledge and experience, a technical advisor to industry, field inspectors, supervisors, other managers and administration.
Matthew has developed and maintained networks with sister agencies, other state and federal agencies, and industry. He continues to prove himself as a leader in Public Health and eagerly seeks out increased responsibility and training. Mentor: Cameron Smoak
Liz Cook, Rebel Muse Tattoo
Liz Cook is a leading tattoo artist. Her color application features heavy saturation and dynamic color contrasts. Cook mixes realism with rendered illustrative elements to bring deeper meaning to her imagery. She earned a BFA in studio painting and drawing giving her the formal training to build upon in the tattoo studio. Cook has an intuitive understanding of portraiture which allows her the creative freedom to push boundaries without compromising realism. Liz is interested in the development of an internship program with her alma mater, The University of North Texas, for students who want to learn tattooing. She continues to work from her studio, Rebel Muse Tattoo, in Lewisville, Texas. Liz Cook has numerous awards for her tattoos throughout the country and is currently featured on The Learning Channel series, Tattoo Girls.
Liz Cook is a leading tattoo artist. Her color application features heavy saturation and dynamic color contrasts. Cook mixes realism with rendered illustrative elements to bring deeper meaning to her imagery. She earned a BFA in studio painting and drawing giving her the formal training to build upon in the tattoo studio. Cook has an intuitive understanding of portraiture which allows her the creative freedom to push boundaries without compromising realism. Liz is interested in the development of an internship program with her alma mater, The University of North Texas, for students who want to learn tattooing. She continues to work from her studio, Rebel Muse Tattoo, in Lewisville, Texas. Liz Cook has numerous awards for her tattoos throughout the country and is currently featured on The Learning Channel series, Tattoo Girls.
Deanna Copeland, RS/REHS ,Manager, Food & NNA Programs, Harris County Public Health, Environmental Public Health Division
Deanna Copeland graduated from the University of Southern Colorado with a Bachelor’s of Science, cum laude, in Environmental Biology, and has worked for Harris County Public Health, serving as a Field Food & Neighborhood Nuisance Abatement (NNA) Investigator, a Supervisor of Food & NNA programs, and Manager of Food & NNA. In her time with Harris County, she has assisted in overseeing food safety and environmental health programs through developing program policy, procedure, planning, and strategy, supervising field surveillance and compliance programs, leading teams to improve the effectiveness of the plan review program and to host the annual Food Safety Summit, a one day educational conference aimed at educating local food establishment owners for best food safety practices. She has maintained her Registered Environmental Health Specialist certification with the National Environmental Health Association since 1999 and serves on the governing council of the Gulf Coast Chapter of the Texas Environmental Health Association.
Deanna Copeland graduated from the University of Southern Colorado with a Bachelor’s of Science, cum laude, in Environmental Biology, and has worked for Harris County Public Health, serving as a Field Food & Neighborhood Nuisance Abatement (NNA) Investigator, a Supervisor of Food & NNA programs, and Manager of Food & NNA. In her time with Harris County, she has assisted in overseeing food safety and environmental health programs through developing program policy, procedure, planning, and strategy, supervising field surveillance and compliance programs, leading teams to improve the effectiveness of the plan review program and to host the annual Food Safety Summit, a one day educational conference aimed at educating local food establishment owners for best food safety practices. She has maintained her Registered Environmental Health Specialist certification with the National Environmental Health Association since 1999 and serves on the governing council of the Gulf Coast Chapter of the Texas Environmental Health Association.
Candace Da Silva, Food Establishment Inspector, St. Louis City Department of Health
Ms. Da Silva earned her B.S. in Biology in 2010, from Saint Louis University. She earned a Masters in Public Health in 2012 from the same institution with a dual concentration in epidemiology and behavioral science.Candace has worked at the Health Communication Research Laboratory at the Brown School of Social Work at Washington University in St.Louis. She is a Certified Professional in Food Safety (CP-FS) through the National Environmental Health Association and currently serves as a food establishment inspector for the St. Louis City Department of Health.
Ms. Da Silva earned her B.S. in Biology in 2010, from Saint Louis University. She earned a Masters in Public Health in 2012 from the same institution with a dual concentration in epidemiology and behavioral science.Candace has worked at the Health Communication Research Laboratory at the Brown School of Social Work at Washington University in St.Louis. She is a Certified Professional in Food Safety (CP-FS) through the National Environmental Health Association and currently serves as a food establishment inspector for the St. Louis City Department of Health.
Lane Drager, Consumer Protection Program Coordinator, Boulder County Public Health
Lane Drager works for Boulder County Public Health and serves as the Consumer Protection Program Coordinator overseeing the Food Safety, Body Art, and Vector programs. Lane has worked for BCPH for 13 years. Prior to that Lane worked for the Illinois Department of Public Health for 5 ½ years and the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency for 2 ½ years. Lane is a graduate of the University of Illinois’ Civil Engineering program. Lane is on the executive committee of the Colorado Integrated Food Safety Center of Excellence. Lane is a member of the Jefferson County Board of Health. Lane formerly served on the executive board and as President of the Colorado Environmental Health Association.
Lane Drager works for Boulder County Public Health and serves as the Consumer Protection Program Coordinator overseeing the Food Safety, Body Art, and Vector programs. Lane has worked for BCPH for 13 years. Prior to that Lane worked for the Illinois Department of Public Health for 5 ½ years and the Illinois Environmental Protection Agency for 2 ½ years. Lane is a graduate of the University of Illinois’ Civil Engineering program. Lane is on the executive committee of the Colorado Integrated Food Safety Center of Excellence. Lane is a member of the Jefferson County Board of Health. Lane formerly served on the executive board and as President of the Colorado Environmental Health Association.
Daniela Drago, PhD, Assistant Professor of Clinical Research and Leadership, and the Director of the Regulatory Affairs Programs, George Washington University’s School of Medicine and Health Sciences
Dr. Daniela Drago is an Assistant Professor of Clinical Research and Leadership, and the Director of the Regulatory Affairs Programs, at The George Washington University’s School of Medicine and Health Sciences. Prior to joining academia, she held senior positions in global regulatory and medical affairs at F. Hoffman-La Roche, Vifor Pharma, Reckitt Benckiser, and Bausch & Lomb. She contributed to more than 100 global regulatory submissions, and provided regulatory advice to companies ranging from start-ups to Fortune 500 firms. She speaks Italian, German, and French. Presently she serves on the board of directors of the Association of Graduate Regulatory Educators. Daniela received her PhD in Chemistry from the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH Zurich).
Dr. Daniela Drago is an Assistant Professor of Clinical Research and Leadership, and the Director of the Regulatory Affairs Programs, at The George Washington University’s School of Medicine and Health Sciences. Prior to joining academia, she held senior positions in global regulatory and medical affairs at F. Hoffman-La Roche, Vifor Pharma, Reckitt Benckiser, and Bausch & Lomb. She contributed to more than 100 global regulatory submissions, and provided regulatory advice to companies ranging from start-ups to Fortune 500 firms. She speaks Italian, German, and French. Presently she serves on the board of directors of the Association of Graduate Regulatory Educators. Daniela received her PhD in Chemistry from the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (ETH Zurich).
Bob Ehart, Senior Policy & Science Advisor, NASDA
Bob Ehart joined NASDA in 2003 as the Animal and Plant Health Safeguarding Coordinator; he subsequently became Director of Public Policy and in 2010 moved into a position as the Senior Policy & Science Advisor for NASDA so he could focus on food safety issues. He has expertise in agricultural and food science, policy and communications. He has worked on a wide array of agricultural policy including: food safety, environmental management issues, animal and plant health, pesticide and other environmental issues affecting agriculture, biotechnology, and the farm bill in a variety of settings—academic, government, industry and consulting—domestically and internationally. Prior to joining NASDA, he ran an environmental monitoring firm focusing on identifying and mitigating risk, particularly on farms. He spent several years working for the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, where he started as a technical expert and was later appointed the Department’s Executive Assistant, similar to an assistant secretary in other states. Bob also worked for the cooperative extension service in North Dakota and for a multinational chemical company, Syngenta, covering issues management and public affairs for the plant protection, animal health and biotechnology businesses. He taught in a veterinary school in Iran. He was an International Farm Youth Exchange delegate to Peru and has worked in international programs areas, establishing cultural and agricultural exchange programs between the US and several foreign countries. Bob has degrees in biology, entomology and ecology. He completed his course work for a PhD in Land Resources in the Institute for Environmental Studies at the University of Wisconsin. His research focus was on the roles and limits of science in food and agricultural policy.
Bob Ehart joined NASDA in 2003 as the Animal and Plant Health Safeguarding Coordinator; he subsequently became Director of Public Policy and in 2010 moved into a position as the Senior Policy & Science Advisor for NASDA so he could focus on food safety issues. He has expertise in agricultural and food science, policy and communications. He has worked on a wide array of agricultural policy including: food safety, environmental management issues, animal and plant health, pesticide and other environmental issues affecting agriculture, biotechnology, and the farm bill in a variety of settings—academic, government, industry and consulting—domestically and internationally. Prior to joining NASDA, he ran an environmental monitoring firm focusing on identifying and mitigating risk, particularly on farms. He spent several years working for the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, where he started as a technical expert and was later appointed the Department’s Executive Assistant, similar to an assistant secretary in other states. Bob also worked for the cooperative extension service in North Dakota and for a multinational chemical company, Syngenta, covering issues management and public affairs for the plant protection, animal health and biotechnology businesses. He taught in a veterinary school in Iran. He was an International Farm Youth Exchange delegate to Peru and has worked in international programs areas, establishing cultural and agricultural exchange programs between the US and several foreign countries. Bob has degrees in biology, entomology and ecology. He completed his course work for a PhD in Land Resources in the Institute for Environmental Studies at the University of Wisconsin. His research focus was on the roles and limits of science in food and agricultural policy.
Jessica Egan, Research Scientist, New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH)
Jessica Egan is a Research Scientist in the Food Protection section of the Bureau of Community Environmental Health and Food Protection (BCEHFP) at the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH). Jessica received her Master of Public Health (MPH) in Epidemiology at the University at Albany State University of New York in 2008.
While completing her MPH, Jessica served as a consultant with the Hospice and Palliative Care Association of New York State to write the Pandemic Flu plan for hospice programs across the state.
In 2007, Jessica began her career with the NYSDOH, working under the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Environmental Health Specialists (EHS-Net) grant on special studies to identify environmental factors that contribute to foodborne illness. In 2012, Jessica shifted to her current position as a food safety regulator. Jessica coordinates the NYSDOH Food Service Inspection Officer (FSIO) training program, which provides standardization training to food service inspectors across the state. She works closely with the NYS Education Department on food safety aspects of the childhood summer feeding program, and is working on the NYS adoption of the FDA Model Food Code. Jessica maintains and analyzes environmental health program data, and has worked on several projects to implement Lean Management practices into the area of food safety. Jessica also continues to participate in foodborne disease outbreak investigations. Jessica is a member of the Central Atlantic States Association of Food and Drug Officials (CASA) and the Northeast Food and Drug Officials Association (NEFDOA). Mentor: Charlene Bruce
Jessica Egan is a Research Scientist in the Food Protection section of the Bureau of Community Environmental Health and Food Protection (BCEHFP) at the New York State Department of Health (NYSDOH). Jessica received her Master of Public Health (MPH) in Epidemiology at the University at Albany State University of New York in 2008.
While completing her MPH, Jessica served as a consultant with the Hospice and Palliative Care Association of New York State to write the Pandemic Flu plan for hospice programs across the state.
In 2007, Jessica began her career with the NYSDOH, working under the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Environmental Health Specialists (EHS-Net) grant on special studies to identify environmental factors that contribute to foodborne illness. In 2012, Jessica shifted to her current position as a food safety regulator. Jessica coordinates the NYSDOH Food Service Inspection Officer (FSIO) training program, which provides standardization training to food service inspectors across the state. She works closely with the NYS Education Department on food safety aspects of the childhood summer feeding program, and is working on the NYS adoption of the FDA Model Food Code. Jessica maintains and analyzes environmental health program data, and has worked on several projects to implement Lean Management practices into the area of food safety. Jessica also continues to participate in foodborne disease outbreak investigations. Jessica is a member of the Central Atlantic States Association of Food and Drug Officials (CASA) and the Northeast Food and Drug Officials Association (NEFDOA). Mentor: Charlene Bruce
Becky Elias, Food & Facilities Section Manager in the Environmental Health Division for Public Health, Seattle & King County
Becky Elias is the Food & Facilities Section Manager in the Environmental Health Division for Public Health – Seattle & King County. Becky and her team permit nearly 12,000 food businesses and 1,800 water recreation facilities, and work to ensure residents of King County have safe food to eat and places to play. The team strives to provide an equitable and educational approach toward regulatory compliance. Prior to joining Public Health in 2013, Becky worked for the Washington State Department of Agriculture and has over 10 years of experience working in local food systems.
Becky Elias is the Food & Facilities Section Manager in the Environmental Health Division for Public Health – Seattle & King County. Becky and her team permit nearly 12,000 food businesses and 1,800 water recreation facilities, and work to ensure residents of King County have safe food to eat and places to play. The team strives to provide an equitable and educational approach toward regulatory compliance. Prior to joining Public Health in 2013, Becky worked for the Washington State Department of Agriculture and has over 10 years of experience working in local food systems.
Ted Elkin, M.E.E., M.P.H., Deputy Director, Regulatory Affairs
Ted Elkin is the Deputy Director for Regulatory Affairs of FDA’s Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition (CFSAN). He joined FDA in August 2009. He has earned post graduate degrees in Environmental Engineering and Public Administration. Prior to coming to FDA, he worked for the Maryland Department of Health and Mental
Hygiene as Chief of Staff to the Deputy Secretary of Public Health. Ted was also the Deputy Director, of the Office of Food Protection and Consumer Health Services: There he was responsible for overseeing a variety of public health regulatory programs including food regulatory programs, and regulatory programs related to product safety. Ted is an environmental sciences and public health administration expert with over 35 years of experience and extensive organizational, communication, training, administrative and program development skills. He has supervised the operations and administration of the food protection, food security, milk protection and community services program in Maryland. Ted has conducted epidemiological investigations into foodborne human diseases to determine the appropriate regulatory response action, as well as leading investigations of various public health programs. He had demonstrated leadership in disseminating knowledge on food protection and security and community services programs to the general public and industry. He has communicated policy and interpretation to members of Congress, Pentagon officials, and other Federal Agencies. Ted has extensive experience in developing, strategic planning and implementation of a variety of public health regulatory programs, including food regulatory programs; and regulatory programs related to product safety and food defense programs.
Ted Elkin is the Deputy Director for Regulatory Affairs of FDA’s Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition (CFSAN). He joined FDA in August 2009. He has earned post graduate degrees in Environmental Engineering and Public Administration. Prior to coming to FDA, he worked for the Maryland Department of Health and Mental
Hygiene as Chief of Staff to the Deputy Secretary of Public Health. Ted was also the Deputy Director, of the Office of Food Protection and Consumer Health Services: There he was responsible for overseeing a variety of public health regulatory programs including food regulatory programs, and regulatory programs related to product safety. Ted is an environmental sciences and public health administration expert with over 35 years of experience and extensive organizational, communication, training, administrative and program development skills. He has supervised the operations and administration of the food protection, food security, milk protection and community services program in Maryland. Ted has conducted epidemiological investigations into foodborne human diseases to determine the appropriate regulatory response action, as well as leading investigations of various public health programs. He had demonstrated leadership in disseminating knowledge on food protection and security and community services programs to the general public and industry. He has communicated policy and interpretation to members of Congress, Pentagon officials, and other Federal Agencies. Ted has extensive experience in developing, strategic planning and implementation of a variety of public health regulatory programs, including food regulatory programs; and regulatory programs related to product safety and food defense programs.
Lezli Engelking, Founder and President, Foundation of Cannabis Unified Standards (FOCUS)
Lezli is Founder and President of Foundation of Cannabis Unified Standards (FOCUS). FOCUS is an international, non-profit, cannabis standards development & third-party certification organization created to protect public health, consumer safety and safeguard the environment. Lezli possesses more than two decades of professional experience across pharmaceutical, mental health, non-profit, and cannabis industries. More than twelve years with Eli Lilly Pharmaceuticals laid the perfect foundation for Lezli’s role as Executive Director of the first chain of vertically integrated medical cannabis operations in Phoenix, Arizona. Lezli’s proven success in the highly regulated pharmaceutical industry combined with her firsthand experience working in the unregulated cannabis industry, place her in an ideal position to lead the company creating the first, international, quality and safety based, voluntary consensus cannabis standards and third party certification platform.
Lezli is Founder and President of Foundation of Cannabis Unified Standards (FOCUS). FOCUS is an international, non-profit, cannabis standards development & third-party certification organization created to protect public health, consumer safety and safeguard the environment. Lezli possesses more than two decades of professional experience across pharmaceutical, mental health, non-profit, and cannabis industries. More than twelve years with Eli Lilly Pharmaceuticals laid the perfect foundation for Lezli’s role as Executive Director of the first chain of vertically integrated medical cannabis operations in Phoenix, Arizona. Lezli’s proven success in the highly regulated pharmaceutical industry combined with her firsthand experience working in the unregulated cannabis industry, place her in an ideal position to lead the company creating the first, international, quality and safety based, voluntary consensus cannabis standards and third party certification platform.
Doug Farquhar, J.D., Director, National Conference of State Legislatures
Doug Farquhar is an attorney with over 25 years experience working with policy makers on environmental and health issues. Primarily working with state legislatures, he has testified 51 times before legislative committees in 31 states, in addition to consulting with state agency staff in every state on enlightening state policy makers. He has written books and articles on state legislative policy, and is a columnist for the National Environmental Health Journal.
For the past 21 years, Mr. Farquhar has directed the Environmental Health Program at the National Conference of State Legislatures. This program performs legislative analysis and outreach on state and federal environmental, health and trade laws; focusing on the delegation and authorization of federal and state laws; and provides legal and technical assistance to state legislators and agency staff on state, federal and international environmental, environmental health, and food policies. He also provides testimony before state legislative committees and task forces; reviews and comments on legislation and regulations, drafts memos, articles and books on state environmental health policies; and represents state interests before federal and international bodies.
As director of Environmental Health he works closely with federal counterparts at the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), and the Commission for Environmental Cooperation (CEC).
Prior to coming to NCSL, Doug worked in the Texas House of Representatives for the Natural Resources and Appropriations Committees and for Congressman Schaefer on Capitol Hill in Washington. He received his law degree from the University of Denver (DU) and undergraduate from the University of Texas in Austin. He is adjunct professor in the DU graduate school of Environmental Policy and Management and at the Colorado School of Public Health.
Doug Farquhar is an attorney with over 25 years experience working with policy makers on environmental and health issues. Primarily working with state legislatures, he has testified 51 times before legislative committees in 31 states, in addition to consulting with state agency staff in every state on enlightening state policy makers. He has written books and articles on state legislative policy, and is a columnist for the National Environmental Health Journal.
For the past 21 years, Mr. Farquhar has directed the Environmental Health Program at the National Conference of State Legislatures. This program performs legislative analysis and outreach on state and federal environmental, health and trade laws; focusing on the delegation and authorization of federal and state laws; and provides legal and technical assistance to state legislators and agency staff on state, federal and international environmental, environmental health, and food policies. He also provides testimony before state legislative committees and task forces; reviews and comments on legislation and regulations, drafts memos, articles and books on state environmental health policies; and represents state interests before federal and international bodies.
As director of Environmental Health he works closely with federal counterparts at the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), and the Commission for Environmental Cooperation (CEC).
Prior to coming to NCSL, Doug worked in the Texas House of Representatives for the Natural Resources and Appropriations Committees and for Congressman Schaefer on Capitol Hill in Washington. He received his law degree from the University of Denver (DU) and undergraduate from the University of Texas in Austin. He is adjunct professor in the DU graduate school of Environmental Policy and Management and at the Colorado School of Public Health.
Allen Gelfius, Trainer, FDA Division of Human Resource Development
Allen Gelfius is a trainer for the FDA Division of Human Resource Development. He develops training courses and educational materials, primarily for state and local regulators, on food safety issues ranging from HACCP principles to the Food Code, Foodborne Illness & Traceback Investigations, Dietary Supplement Good Manufacturing Practice Regulations, and other regulatory and industry initiatives designed to reduce the risk of foodborne illness. He also coordinates the delivery of these training courses in various states across the country and participates in the instruction and presentation of the course materials. In July 2011, Allen helped launch FDA’s Coordinated Outbreak Response & Evaluation Network (CORE) and served as lead for one of the outbreak response teams for six months. His team coordinated the investigation of Listeria monocytogenese in whole cantaloupe from Colorado, one of the largest outbreaks in the U.S. in nearly 70 years.
Prior to joining FDA, Allen completed his B.S. degree in Public Health at Indiana University and then worked for 12 years in the Hawaii State Department of Health’s Food and Drug Branch as a field inspector (for the first 4 years) and then as the Data & Training Manager. His work included management of inspection data; the promulgation of laws and regulations to regulate foods, drugs, cosmetics, and medical devices sold in Hawaii; and the development and implementation of training programs and educational materials on various public health issues. Allen was awarded the 1995 National Achievement Award from the Association of Food & Drug Officials (AFDO) for his efforts in providing training and education to regulators, industry representatives, and the general public on food safety and other public health issues. His training efforts have covered issues such as seafood HACCP principles; food microbiology and foodborne illness investigation; nutrition labeling; dietary supplement safety, leaching lead in ceramics; and safe foodhandling practices, for which he led the Hawaii Food Safety Advisory Council in the development of a training video and education program targeted at newly-hired foodhandlers in retail food and food service operations. Allen has been an active member and served on various boards and committees of the Association of Food and Drug Officials, the Conference for Food Protection, and the Institute of Food Technologists.
Allen Gelfius is a trainer for the FDA Division of Human Resource Development. He develops training courses and educational materials, primarily for state and local regulators, on food safety issues ranging from HACCP principles to the Food Code, Foodborne Illness & Traceback Investigations, Dietary Supplement Good Manufacturing Practice Regulations, and other regulatory and industry initiatives designed to reduce the risk of foodborne illness. He also coordinates the delivery of these training courses in various states across the country and participates in the instruction and presentation of the course materials. In July 2011, Allen helped launch FDA’s Coordinated Outbreak Response & Evaluation Network (CORE) and served as lead for one of the outbreak response teams for six months. His team coordinated the investigation of Listeria monocytogenese in whole cantaloupe from Colorado, one of the largest outbreaks in the U.S. in nearly 70 years.
Prior to joining FDA, Allen completed his B.S. degree in Public Health at Indiana University and then worked for 12 years in the Hawaii State Department of Health’s Food and Drug Branch as a field inspector (for the first 4 years) and then as the Data & Training Manager. His work included management of inspection data; the promulgation of laws and regulations to regulate foods, drugs, cosmetics, and medical devices sold in Hawaii; and the development and implementation of training programs and educational materials on various public health issues. Allen was awarded the 1995 National Achievement Award from the Association of Food & Drug Officials (AFDO) for his efforts in providing training and education to regulators, industry representatives, and the general public on food safety and other public health issues. His training efforts have covered issues such as seafood HACCP principles; food microbiology and foodborne illness investigation; nutrition labeling; dietary supplement safety, leaching lead in ceramics; and safe foodhandling practices, for which he led the Hawaii Food Safety Advisory Council in the development of a training video and education program targeted at newly-hired foodhandlers in retail food and food service operations. Allen has been an active member and served on various boards and committees of the Association of Food and Drug Officials, the Conference for Food Protection, and the Institute of Food Technologists.
Ballard H. Graham, Divisional Vice President of Compliance Oversight, Abbott Laboratories
Ballard H. Graham, former Atlanta District Director, started his FDA career in November 1970 as an inspector technician with the Detroit District, working out of the Indianapolis, IN. resident post, following a four-year U.S. Navy enlistment. His work assignments at the post included establishment inspections, consumer complaint investigations, general investigations, imports, recall effectiveness checks, all types of sample collections domestic and import. He served as an investigator in the Indianapolis resident post also. Served as a resident in charge investigator in the Sioux Falls, SD resident post, Denver District. Served as a supervisor in the New Jersey District for six years. Served as the Director Investigations Branch, Philadelphia District, prior to being selected as the Atlanta District Director.
During his long FDA career, he earned the respect of his colleagues and managers and was afforded the opportunity to take on senior level management roles as Acting, Deputy Association Commissioner for Regulatory Affairs; Acting, Regional Food and Drug Director for the Central, Southeast and Pacific Regions. He retired from FDA in August, 2002.
Following his distinguished FDA career, he joined Abbott Laboratories, North Chicago, IL. as Divisional Vice President Global Compliance. He served in this position for five years, before being selected as the Divisional Vice President of Compliance Oversight for Abbott, which he held until his retirement from Abbott, in June, 2013.
Ballard H. Graham, former Atlanta District Director, started his FDA career in November 1970 as an inspector technician with the Detroit District, working out of the Indianapolis, IN. resident post, following a four-year U.S. Navy enlistment. His work assignments at the post included establishment inspections, consumer complaint investigations, general investigations, imports, recall effectiveness checks, all types of sample collections domestic and import. He served as an investigator in the Indianapolis resident post also. Served as a resident in charge investigator in the Sioux Falls, SD resident post, Denver District. Served as a supervisor in the New Jersey District for six years. Served as the Director Investigations Branch, Philadelphia District, prior to being selected as the Atlanta District Director.
During his long FDA career, he earned the respect of his colleagues and managers and was afforded the opportunity to take on senior level management roles as Acting, Deputy Association Commissioner for Regulatory Affairs; Acting, Regional Food and Drug Director for the Central, Southeast and Pacific Regions. He retired from FDA in August, 2002.
Following his distinguished FDA career, he joined Abbott Laboratories, North Chicago, IL. as Divisional Vice President Global Compliance. He served in this position for five years, before being selected as the Divisional Vice President of Compliance Oversight for Abbott, which he held until his retirement from Abbott, in June, 2013.
Alexis Grolla, Regional Manager, Health Canada's Regulatory Operations and Regions Branch in the Drug GMP Inspection Program
Alexis Grolla is a regional manager for Health Canada's Regulatory Operations and Regions Branch in the Drug GMP Inspection Program (East-West). In this capacity she works with 24 inspectors and two supervisors who plan and conduct GMP Drug Inspections domestically and internationally.
Alexis has a background in Applied Microbiology from the University of Guelph. She has been with the federal government in a variety of inspection related jobs in both the food and health products areas.
Alexis Grolla is a regional manager for Health Canada's Regulatory Operations and Regions Branch in the Drug GMP Inspection Program (East-West). In this capacity she works with 24 inspectors and two supervisors who plan and conduct GMP Drug Inspections domestically and internationally.
Alexis has a background in Applied Microbiology from the University of Guelph. She has been with the federal government in a variety of inspection related jobs in both the food and health products areas.
Tracy Graham, Manager, Regulatory Affairs, Ecolab Inc,
Tracey Graham is the Manager of Regulatory Affairs for QSR and FRS, for Ecolab Inc, the global leader in water, hygiene, and energy technologies and services that protect people and vital resources. With 2015 Sales of $ and greater than 48,000 associates, Ecolab delivers comprehensive solutions and on-site service to promote safe food, maintain clean environment, optimize water and energy use and improve operational efficiencies for customers in the food, healthcare, energy, hospitality, and industrial markets in more than 170 countries around the world.
Tracy began her career in Regulatory Affairs in 1996 with Goulston Technologies, Inc. and in 2007 joined Ecolab’s Regulatory Team. Over the last twenty years, she has had positions of increasing responsibility in Regulatory arena. She is currently responsible for ensuring compliance in hazard communication and product registration in 172 countries around the world, including the United States.
Tracy holds a Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. She also holds a CPFS credential from the National Environmental Health Association Tracy is a member of the Society for Hazard Communication and sits on registered products subcommittee for Canadian Consumer Products Association.
Tracey Graham is the Manager of Regulatory Affairs for QSR and FRS, for Ecolab Inc, the global leader in water, hygiene, and energy technologies and services that protect people and vital resources. With 2015 Sales of $ and greater than 48,000 associates, Ecolab delivers comprehensive solutions and on-site service to promote safe food, maintain clean environment, optimize water and energy use and improve operational efficiencies for customers in the food, healthcare, energy, hospitality, and industrial markets in more than 170 countries around the world.
Tracy began her career in Regulatory Affairs in 1996 with Goulston Technologies, Inc. and in 2007 joined Ecolab’s Regulatory Team. Over the last twenty years, she has had positions of increasing responsibility in Regulatory arena. She is currently responsible for ensuring compliance in hazard communication and product registration in 172 countries around the world, including the United States.
Tracy holds a Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte. She also holds a CPFS credential from the National Environmental Health Association Tracy is a member of the Society for Hazard Communication and sits on registered products subcommittee for Canadian Consumer Products Association.
Patrick Guzzle, Food Protection Program Manager, Division of Public Health in the Department of Health and Welfare (IDHW)
Patrick Guzzle is the Food Protection Program Manager with the Division of Public Health in the Department of Health and Welfare (IDHW). He has held that position since January, 2004. Patrick holds a Bachelors Degree in Spanish and Masters Degrees in Medical Anthropology and Public Health, all from Idaho State University.
Prior to his employment with IDHW, Patrick was employed in the Environmental Health section of Southeastern Idaho Public Health in Pocatello, Idaho. During his time in Pocatello, Patrick held the positions of Food Protection Program Coordinator and also Environmental Health Supervisor.
He is a registered Environmental Health Specialist and is also registered with the National Environmental Health Association as a Food Safety Trainer. He has taught numerous food safety and sanitation courses to managers and staff members associated with all types of retail food establishments. He is a member of the National Environmental Health Association, and the Conference for Food Protection and is the current Chair of the CFP.
Patrick and his wife Dianne were both raised in the mountains of Colorado. They and their children live in Boise.
Patrick Guzzle is the Food Protection Program Manager with the Division of Public Health in the Department of Health and Welfare (IDHW). He has held that position since January, 2004. Patrick holds a Bachelors Degree in Spanish and Masters Degrees in Medical Anthropology and Public Health, all from Idaho State University.
Prior to his employment with IDHW, Patrick was employed in the Environmental Health section of Southeastern Idaho Public Health in Pocatello, Idaho. During his time in Pocatello, Patrick held the positions of Food Protection Program Coordinator and also Environmental Health Supervisor.
He is a registered Environmental Health Specialist and is also registered with the National Environmental Health Association as a Food Safety Trainer. He has taught numerous food safety and sanitation courses to managers and staff members associated with all types of retail food establishments. He is a member of the National Environmental Health Association, and the Conference for Food Protection and is the current Chair of the CFP.
Patrick and his wife Dianne were both raised in the mountains of Colorado. They and their children live in Boise.
Melissa G. Ham, REHS, NCDHHS Environmental Health Regional Specialist, Food Protection Program
Melissa has worked with the state of North Carolina Environmental Health Services Section as a Regional Environmental Health Specialist for almost 16 years. Her territory includes counties in the central and southern regions of North Carolina. She has worked at three local health departments working in food and lodging, on-site waste water and vector control. She worked at the local level for 12 years. Her work prior to public health was microbiology for private food company.
Melissa graduated from University of North Carolina at Pembroke in 1987 with a BS in Biology Minor Medical Sociology. She currently lives in Fayetteville, with both her husband Chad and man child Cameron. Her husband says she is easy to live with, her mother says she is impatient, and her dog, Alfie, thinks she is the best person in the world.
Melissa has worked with the state of North Carolina Environmental Health Services Section as a Regional Environmental Health Specialist for almost 16 years. Her territory includes counties in the central and southern regions of North Carolina. She has worked at three local health departments working in food and lodging, on-site waste water and vector control. She worked at the local level for 12 years. Her work prior to public health was microbiology for private food company.
Melissa graduated from University of North Carolina at Pembroke in 1987 with a BS in Biology Minor Medical Sociology. She currently lives in Fayetteville, with both her husband Chad and man child Cameron. Her husband says she is easy to live with, her mother says she is impatient, and her dog, Alfie, thinks she is the best person in the world.
Dr. Jenine Harris, Associate Professor, Washington University
Dr. Jenine Harris is an Associate Professor teaching biostatistics in the public health program at Washington University in St. Louis. Her recent research focuses on the use of Twitter and other social media platforms as a way to conduct public health surveillance and improve connections between local health departments and their constituents. In the past few years, Jenine has collaborated with the Chicago Department of Public Health and the City of St. Louis Department of Health to evaluate and implement a new Twitter tool create by the HealthMap team at Boston Children’s hospital. The Twitter tool identifies possible foodborne illness and encourages reporting local constituents.
Dr. Jenine Harris is an Associate Professor teaching biostatistics in the public health program at Washington University in St. Louis. Her recent research focuses on the use of Twitter and other social media platforms as a way to conduct public health surveillance and improve connections between local health departments and their constituents. In the past few years, Jenine has collaborated with the Chicago Department of Public Health and the City of St. Louis Department of Health to evaluate and implement a new Twitter tool create by the HealthMap team at Boston Children’s hospital. The Twitter tool identifies possible foodborne illness and encourages reporting local constituents.
Stan Hazan, BSc, MPH, MBA, Sr. Director of Science & Regulatory Affairs, NSF International
Stan Hazan is Sr. Director of Science & Regulatory Affairs for NSF International. He oversees legislative, regulatory and code body issues across local, state/provincial/federal and international jurisdictions in the areas of water quality, food safety, dietary supplements and more. He serves as Secretary of the NSF Council of Public Health Consultants which oversees all NSF standards. He manages the NSF/WHO Collaborating Centers and is the liaison to the Codex Alimentarius. Stan has played a supporting role in the development and implementation of FSMA, including working w GFSI committees. He is a frequent speaker on third party audits and certification. He serves on the Partnership for Food Safety Education Board of Directors as well as the University of Michigan, School of Public Health’s Dean’s Advisory Board. Stan holds degrees in chemistry / biochemistry from the University of Toronto; an MPH and MBA from the University of Michigan; and a Certificate in International Food Laws and Regulations from Michigan State University.
Stan Hazan is Sr. Director of Science & Regulatory Affairs for NSF International. He oversees legislative, regulatory and code body issues across local, state/provincial/federal and international jurisdictions in the areas of water quality, food safety, dietary supplements and more. He serves as Secretary of the NSF Council of Public Health Consultants which oversees all NSF standards. He manages the NSF/WHO Collaborating Centers and is the liaison to the Codex Alimentarius. Stan has played a supporting role in the development and implementation of FSMA, including working w GFSI committees. He is a frequent speaker on third party audits and certification. He serves on the Partnership for Food Safety Education Board of Directors as well as the University of Michigan, School of Public Health’s Dean’s Advisory Board. Stan holds degrees in chemistry / biochemistry from the University of Toronto; an MPH and MBA from the University of Michigan; and a Certificate in International Food Laws and Regulations from Michigan State University.
Cory Hedman, MPH, Vice President, Food Safety & Quality Assurance
Cory has over 30 years of experience within the retail food industry. He has a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology from Eastern Illinois University, and a Master of Public Health Degree from Benedictine University.
He is a member of numerous national, state and international organizations. He was a Founding Member of the Board of Directors for the Global Food Safety Initiative through the Consumer Goods Forum. Meijer was the 2016 recipient of the prestigious Black Pearl Award from the International Association for Food Protection, in recognition of Meijer’s outstanding commitment to and achievement in corporate excellence in food safety and quality.
Cory has over 30 years of experience within the retail food industry. He has a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology from Eastern Illinois University, and a Master of Public Health Degree from Benedictine University.
He is a member of numerous national, state and international organizations. He was a Founding Member of the Board of Directors for the Global Food Safety Initiative through the Consumer Goods Forum. Meijer was the 2016 recipient of the prestigious Black Pearl Award from the International Association for Food Protection, in recognition of Meijer’s outstanding commitment to and achievement in corporate excellence in food safety and quality.
Odeisa Hichez, Food Inspector, New York Department of Agriculture and Markets
Odeisa Hichez was born and raised in the Dominican Republic, where she also graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology in 1993. In that same year, Odeisa moved to the U.S. and pursued a second Bachelor of Science in Biology, minoring in Chemistry, from The City University of New York (CUNY) Hunter College.
In March 2002, Odeisa began working for the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets (NYSDAM) as a Food Inspector 1. During her 15-year career as a food inspector for NYS, Odeisa has conducted numerous inspections at retail and wholesale level, including Seafood and Juice Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points (HACCP), Low-Acid Canned Foods (LACF), acidified, U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) contract, United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) contract, and live poultry custom slaughterhouses. Additionally, she has been involved in traceback of several class one recalls, which were performed jointly with other agencies. Along with these achievements, Odeisa has received several outstanding performance awards at the department’s annual inspector’s update.
Odeisa is an active member of Central Atlantic States Association of Food and Drug Officials (CASA) where she is currently Jr. Vice-President of the New York chapter. In addition to her duties as a Food Inspector, Ms. Hichez enjoys time with her family, photography, and hiking the New York/New Jersey area. Mentors: Steve Steinhoff and Dan Sowards (Deceased March 29, 2017)
Odeisa Hichez was born and raised in the Dominican Republic, where she also graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology in 1993. In that same year, Odeisa moved to the U.S. and pursued a second Bachelor of Science in Biology, minoring in Chemistry, from The City University of New York (CUNY) Hunter College.
In March 2002, Odeisa began working for the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets (NYSDAM) as a Food Inspector 1. During her 15-year career as a food inspector for NYS, Odeisa has conducted numerous inspections at retail and wholesale level, including Seafood and Juice Hazard Analysis Critical Control Points (HACCP), Low-Acid Canned Foods (LACF), acidified, U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) contract, United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) contract, and live poultry custom slaughterhouses. Additionally, she has been involved in traceback of several class one recalls, which were performed jointly with other agencies. Along with these achievements, Odeisa has received several outstanding performance awards at the department’s annual inspector’s update.
Odeisa is an active member of Central Atlantic States Association of Food and Drug Officials (CASA) where she is currently Jr. Vice-President of the New York chapter. In addition to her duties as a Food Inspector, Ms. Hichez enjoys time with her family, photography, and hiking the New York/New Jersey area. Mentors: Steve Steinhoff and Dan Sowards (Deceased March 29, 2017)
Chef Tyler Henderson
At an early age, Chef Tyler Henderson took a liking to cooking. As soon as Chef Tyler was of age to work in a restaurant, he dove right in and literally worked in every position in a kitchen in order for him to acquire knowledge of each position. After two months at Johnny Carinos Italian restaurant, Tyler was able to gain the head chef position before his 17th birthday. Chef Tyler continued his pursuit of culinary arts through working and running the kitchens of multiple Pearland restaurants, and competing in multiple culinary competitions. He was Executive Chef of Haak Winery in Santa Fe, Texas and after two years at Haak Winery, he was offered the Executive Chef position of a new restaurant in Durango Colorado named PLATE, a Farm to table southwest fusion restaurant with a monthly rotating seasonal menu. Chef Tyler graduated his associates’ degree in Culinary Arts and Restaurant Management as a distinguished graduate of Alvin Community College in less than a year after his high school graduation. Chef Tyler is a senior at the Conrad N. Hilton College of Hotel and Restaurant Management of the University of Houston. Chef Tyler has been featured in local magazines and papers for his culinary achievements and his community services, and was recently featured on Food Network's CHOPPED.
At an early age, Chef Tyler Henderson took a liking to cooking. As soon as Chef Tyler was of age to work in a restaurant, he dove right in and literally worked in every position in a kitchen in order for him to acquire knowledge of each position. After two months at Johnny Carinos Italian restaurant, Tyler was able to gain the head chef position before his 17th birthday. Chef Tyler continued his pursuit of culinary arts through working and running the kitchens of multiple Pearland restaurants, and competing in multiple culinary competitions. He was Executive Chef of Haak Winery in Santa Fe, Texas and after two years at Haak Winery, he was offered the Executive Chef position of a new restaurant in Durango Colorado named PLATE, a Farm to table southwest fusion restaurant with a monthly rotating seasonal menu. Chef Tyler graduated his associates’ degree in Culinary Arts and Restaurant Management as a distinguished graduate of Alvin Community College in less than a year after his high school graduation. Chef Tyler is a senior at the Conrad N. Hilton College of Hotel and Restaurant Management of the University of Houston. Chef Tyler has been featured in local magazines and papers for his culinary achievements and his community services, and was recently featured on Food Network's CHOPPED.
Scott Holmes, Environmental Public Health Division Manager, Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department
Scott Holmes is the Environmental Public Health Division Manager with the Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department. Prior to that, Scott served as the Department’s Epidemiologist and was a sanitarian for the North Dakota Department of Health. Scott holds a B.S. in Microbiology from Montana State University and an M.S. in Environmental Health from the University of Minnesota. And, he is a Registered Environmental Health Specialist. Scott has served on advisory committees and boards, including: the Council for Improving Foodborne Outbreak Response; FDA’s Partnership for Food Protection; Nebraska’s Board of Environmental Health Specialists; NACCHO’s Environmental Health Advisory Committee; UL’s Environmental and Public Health Council; and NEHA’s Technical Advisory Group. Scott has presented at several national and state conferences. The Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department’s Food Safety Program was awarded the 2015 Samuel J. Crumbine Award for Consumer Protection.
Scott Holmes is the Environmental Public Health Division Manager with the Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department. Prior to that, Scott served as the Department’s Epidemiologist and was a sanitarian for the North Dakota Department of Health. Scott holds a B.S. in Microbiology from Montana State University and an M.S. in Environmental Health from the University of Minnesota. And, he is a Registered Environmental Health Specialist. Scott has served on advisory committees and boards, including: the Council for Improving Foodborne Outbreak Response; FDA’s Partnership for Food Protection; Nebraska’s Board of Environmental Health Specialists; NACCHO’s Environmental Health Advisory Committee; UL’s Environmental and Public Health Council; and NEHA’s Technical Advisory Group. Scott has presented at several national and state conferences. The Lincoln-Lancaster County Health Department’s Food Safety Program was awarded the 2015 Samuel J. Crumbine Award for Consumer Protection.
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Catherine Hosman, Project Officer, FDA’s Office of Partnerships
Since June, 2013, Catherine Hosman has held the position of Project Officer in FDA’s Office of Partnerships. She is responsible for managing cooperative agreements associated with the Voluntary National Retail Food Regulatory Program Standards (Retail Program Standards), as well as managing the State Contract Audit Program. Prior to joining the Office of Partnerships, she held positions as the Quality Systems Manager and Management & Program Analyst for New England District office, and Support Services Supervisor at the Winchester Engineering and Analytical Center.
Since June, 2013, Catherine Hosman has held the position of Project Officer in FDA’s Office of Partnerships. She is responsible for managing cooperative agreements associated with the Voluntary National Retail Food Regulatory Program Standards (Retail Program Standards), as well as managing the State Contract Audit Program. Prior to joining the Office of Partnerships, she held positions as the Quality Systems Manager and Management & Program Analyst for New England District office, and Support Services Supervisor at the Winchester Engineering and Analytical Center.
Stephen Hughes, Team Leader, CFSAN members of the FDA’s Produce Safety Network
Stephen Hughes is the Team Leader for the CFSAN members of the FDA’s Produce Safety Network. He coordinates the efforts of the Produce Safety Experts – the Produce Safety Experts enable a regional and local perspective on farming conditions and farming practices when FDA develops guidance, conducts outreach, responds to inquiries, and develops training on the Produce Safety Rule. Before joining the Produce Safety Network, Stephen spent five years working in FDA’s Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, in the Office of Food Safety, for the Retail Food Policy Team.
Stephen Hughes is the Team Leader for the CFSAN members of the FDA’s Produce Safety Network. He coordinates the efforts of the Produce Safety Experts – the Produce Safety Experts enable a regional and local perspective on farming conditions and farming practices when FDA develops guidance, conducts outreach, responds to inquiries, and develops training on the Produce Safety Rule. Before joining the Produce Safety Network, Stephen spent five years working in FDA’s Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition, in the Office of Food Safety, for the Retail Food Policy Team.
Courtland Imel, Founder, Owner and CEO,Ceutical Laboratories, Inc
Courtland Imel is the founder (2003), owner and CEO of Ceutical Laboratories, Inc. Mr. Imel has over 30 years’ experience in FDA Regulated Industries and more than 18 years in the Medical Device, Pharmaceutical, Cosmetic, Food, and Nutraceutical Industries. He has served as Director of Quality Assurance, Quality Control and Regulatory Affairs for several major companies. He has held key positions with M&M Mars, Allergan, Inc., ILEX Oncology, Aronex Pharmaceuticals, Mill Biopharmaceuticals, International Isotopes, Avail Medical Products, and Carrington Laboratories, Inc. Mr. Imel holds a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from Baylor University.
Courtland Imel is the founder (2003), owner and CEO of Ceutical Laboratories, Inc. Mr. Imel has over 30 years’ experience in FDA Regulated Industries and more than 18 years in the Medical Device, Pharmaceutical, Cosmetic, Food, and Nutraceutical Industries. He has served as Director of Quality Assurance, Quality Control and Regulatory Affairs for several major companies. He has held key positions with M&M Mars, Allergan, Inc., ILEX Oncology, Aronex Pharmaceuticals, Mill Biopharmaceuticals, International Isotopes, Avail Medical Products, and Carrington Laboratories, Inc. Mr. Imel holds a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from Baylor University.
Dr. Candace Jacobs, DVM, MPH, DACVPM, Assistant Director, Food Safety & Consumer Services Division (FSCS) of the Washington Department of Agriculture (WSDA)
Candace A. Jacobs, DVM, MPH, DACVPM is the assistant director (AD) of the Food Safety & Consumer Services Division (FSCS) of the Washington Department of Agriculture (WSDA), a position she has held since April 2015, as well as from 1994 through 2000. During the interim, she worked in food safety/regulatory/environmental affairs/ quality assurance positions in the food industry. Former employers include The Coca-Cola Company, H-E-B Grocery, Campbell Soup, Niagara Bottling, Starbucks, and Chobani Yogurt. She has also held positions as a policy analyst for WSDA, the State Toxicologist for the Nebraska Department of Health, and as a clinical veterinarian in Wyoming and California. Her Air Force career includes active duty as a research veterinarian for the US Navy, and reserve duty as a public health officer for the US Air Force. Dr. Jacobs retired as a Colonel in the Biomedical Services Corps. She received her veterinary degree from Oklahoma State University, her Master of Public Health from San Diego State University, and her bachelor of science degree from the University of Arkansas.
Candace A. Jacobs, DVM, MPH, DACVPM is the assistant director (AD) of the Food Safety & Consumer Services Division (FSCS) of the Washington Department of Agriculture (WSDA), a position she has held since April 2015, as well as from 1994 through 2000. During the interim, she worked in food safety/regulatory/environmental affairs/ quality assurance positions in the food industry. Former employers include The Coca-Cola Company, H-E-B Grocery, Campbell Soup, Niagara Bottling, Starbucks, and Chobani Yogurt. She has also held positions as a policy analyst for WSDA, the State Toxicologist for the Nebraska Department of Health, and as a clinical veterinarian in Wyoming and California. Her Air Force career includes active duty as a research veterinarian for the US Navy, and reserve duty as a public health officer for the US Air Force. Dr. Jacobs retired as a Colonel in the Biomedical Services Corps. She received her veterinary degree from Oklahoma State University, her Master of Public Health from San Diego State University, and her bachelor of science degree from the University of Arkansas.
Scott Jeansonne, RS, MELP, Supervisor, Food & NNA Programs, Harris County Public Health, Environmental Public Health Division
Scott Jeansonne has been with HCPH for 8-years and holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology & Chemistry from Texas State University along with a Masters in Environmental Law from Vermont Law School. At HCPH, Scott has worked as a field investigator, Compliance Coordinator and currently as a Supervisor to a team of field staff, mobile food unit inspections, temporary events, and disaster response, and is an active member of the Texas Environmental Health Association..
Scott Jeansonne has been with HCPH for 8-years and holds a Bachelor of Science in Biology & Chemistry from Texas State University along with a Masters in Environmental Law from Vermont Law School. At HCPH, Scott has worked as a field investigator, Compliance Coordinator and currently as a Supervisor to a team of field staff, mobile food unit inspections, temporary events, and disaster response, and is an active member of the Texas Environmental Health Association..
Alissa D. Jijon, United States Pharmacopeial Convention (USP)
Alissa Jijon provides counsel to the United States Pharmacopeial Convention (USP) to help ensure the integrity of the organization’s standard-setting process. She also helps articulate the role of USP standards in law and advises the organization on issues related to the regulatory environment. She has held her current position since August 2016.
Ms. Jijon previously worked as an FDA regulatory attorney in private practice in Washington, DC, where she advised companies and trade associations in the food and pharmaceutical industries on issues related to regulatory compliance and enforcement.
Ms. Jijon received a J.D. from Harvard Law School and a B.A. in Psychology from Yale University.
Alissa Jijon provides counsel to the United States Pharmacopeial Convention (USP) to help ensure the integrity of the organization’s standard-setting process. She also helps articulate the role of USP standards in law and advises the organization on issues related to the regulatory environment. She has held her current position since August 2016.
Ms. Jijon previously worked as an FDA regulatory attorney in private practice in Washington, DC, where she advised companies and trade associations in the food and pharmaceutical industries on issues related to regulatory compliance and enforcement.
Ms. Jijon received a J.D. from Harvard Law School and a B.A. in Psychology from Yale University.
Dr. Kaml, Senior Vice President, International Food Protection Training Institute (IFPTI)
Dr. Kaml, International Food Protection Training Institute (IFPTI) Senior Vice President, leads the strategic and operational direction for the Institute’s curriculum design, development, and delivery, as well as the Institute’s information technology and support systems’ requirements. Prior to join IFPTI Dr. Kaml served over seventeen years in high education focusing on the appropriate application of technology to learning and distance education. Prior to joining IFPTI Dr. Kaml served as the Associate Dean, and as the Interim Associate Provost of Extended University Program at Western Michigan University.
Dr. Kaml, International Food Protection Training Institute (IFPTI) Senior Vice President, leads the strategic and operational direction for the Institute’s curriculum design, development, and delivery, as well as the Institute’s information technology and support systems’ requirements. Prior to join IFPTI Dr. Kaml served over seventeen years in high education focusing on the appropriate application of technology to learning and distance education. Prior to joining IFPTI Dr. Kaml served as the Associate Dean, and as the Interim Associate Provost of Extended University Program at Western Michigan University.
Brett L. Koonse, Aquaculture and Pre-processor Seafood Safety Expert, Food and Drug Administration
Brett has been working for thirty five years in seafood safety. After graduating from the University of California at Santa Cruz with a major in Marine Biology in 1980, Brett went directly to work for the State of Texas. He worked for almost ten years there traveling up and down the Gulf of Mexico collecting and analyzing aquatic samples measuring environmental contaminant risk. In 1990 Brett joined the U.S. Food and Drug Administration where has served in a variety of positions including being a Consumer Safety Officer in an FDA field office, the lead National Shellfish Processor Inspector and for 8 years served as the Chief of the Programs and Inspection Branch in FDA’s Office of Seafood where he was an active participant in drafting FDA’s Seafood HACCP implementation policy. For the last 12 years he has been an FDA aquaculture and pre-processor seafood safety expert where he led the development of Good Aquaculture Practices and Good Fishing Vessel Practices and has worked in over 45 countries conducting a variety of aquaculture and fishing vessel food safety activities including research, training, technical assistance, and assessments.
Brett has been working for thirty five years in seafood safety. After graduating from the University of California at Santa Cruz with a major in Marine Biology in 1980, Brett went directly to work for the State of Texas. He worked for almost ten years there traveling up and down the Gulf of Mexico collecting and analyzing aquatic samples measuring environmental contaminant risk. In 1990 Brett joined the U.S. Food and Drug Administration where has served in a variety of positions including being a Consumer Safety Officer in an FDA field office, the lead National Shellfish Processor Inspector and for 8 years served as the Chief of the Programs and Inspection Branch in FDA’s Office of Seafood where he was an active participant in drafting FDA’s Seafood HACCP implementation policy. For the last 12 years he has been an FDA aquaculture and pre-processor seafood safety expert where he led the development of Good Aquaculture Practices and Good Fishing Vessel Practices and has worked in over 45 countries conducting a variety of aquaculture and fishing vessel food safety activities including research, training, technical assistance, and assessments.
Lewis Koski, Co-Founder, Freedman & Koski, Inc
Lewis Koski is a co-founder of Freedman & Koski, Inc., a government consulting company focused on implementing marijuana policy using good approaches to government. Prior to his current role, Lewis was a government executive with a broad range of experience in comprehensively regulated industries to include casino gambling, liquor enforcement, racing, auto industries and marijuana legalization. During the last six and half years, Lewis played a pivotal role in Colorado building the first agency in the world to implement medical and retail marijuana policy.
Lewis is recognized nationally and internationally as an expert in formative marijuana policy. He is among a small group of government executives who have been intimately involved in the development and implementation of marijuana policy from the infancy of medical marijuana through the realization of legalization. Lewis’ leadership contributions and devotion to implementing marijuana policy thoughtfully played an important role achieving what has become one of the most fully developed marijuana regulatory frameworks in the world.
Lewis holds a Master of Business Administration with an emphasis on International Business and is a Doctoral Candidate in Public Administration with a focus on policy analysis and public participation in rulemaking.
Lewis Koski is a co-founder of Freedman & Koski, Inc., a government consulting company focused on implementing marijuana policy using good approaches to government. Prior to his current role, Lewis was a government executive with a broad range of experience in comprehensively regulated industries to include casino gambling, liquor enforcement, racing, auto industries and marijuana legalization. During the last six and half years, Lewis played a pivotal role in Colorado building the first agency in the world to implement medical and retail marijuana policy.
Lewis is recognized nationally and internationally as an expert in formative marijuana policy. He is among a small group of government executives who have been intimately involved in the development and implementation of marijuana policy from the infancy of medical marijuana through the realization of legalization. Lewis’ leadership contributions and devotion to implementing marijuana policy thoughtfully played an important role achieving what has become one of the most fully developed marijuana regulatory frameworks in the world.
Lewis holds a Master of Business Administration with an emphasis on International Business and is a Doctoral Candidate in Public Administration with a focus on policy analysis and public participation in rulemaking.
Julie Larsen, Principal Consultant and Director of Inspection Readiness Services, BioTeknica, Inc
Julie Larsen is a Principal Consultant and Director of Inspection Readiness Services at BioTeknica, Inc., a quality and regulatory compliance and engineering consulting firm in Coral Gables, Florida. Julie is a Certified Quality Manager (CQM), a Medical Technologist (MTASCP) and has more than 25 years experience in quality assurance and compliance in the medical device and pharmaceutical industries.
Julie has extensive experience in strategy development, management and coordination of FDA inspections, quality systems remediation for compliance improvement and constructing responses and corrective action plans for Consent Decree, Warning Letter and Form 483 responses.
Her background includes the facilitation of a successful FDA compliance inspection under Consent Decree where she managed inspection teams and prepared key subject matter experts. Julie has participated in more than 50 FDA inspections, numerous ISO, and other Regulatory Body inspections.
Formerly, Julie held senior management positions including Senior Director, Compliance & Auditing; Director, Quality Commercial Operations at Abbott Diagnostics; Director, Quality for Abbott Hematology; Compliance Auditor, Abbott Corporate Regulatory & Quality Science and GMP Compliance Officer, Abbott Pharmaceutical Products.
Julie earned her Bachelor of Science in Medical Technology from Rush University and a Bachelor of Science in Science and Liberal Arts from Monmouth College.
Julie Larsen is a Principal Consultant and Director of Inspection Readiness Services at BioTeknica, Inc., a quality and regulatory compliance and engineering consulting firm in Coral Gables, Florida. Julie is a Certified Quality Manager (CQM), a Medical Technologist (MTASCP) and has more than 25 years experience in quality assurance and compliance in the medical device and pharmaceutical industries.
Julie has extensive experience in strategy development, management and coordination of FDA inspections, quality systems remediation for compliance improvement and constructing responses and corrective action plans for Consent Decree, Warning Letter and Form 483 responses.
Her background includes the facilitation of a successful FDA compliance inspection under Consent Decree where she managed inspection teams and prepared key subject matter experts. Julie has participated in more than 50 FDA inspections, numerous ISO, and other Regulatory Body inspections.
Formerly, Julie held senior management positions including Senior Director, Compliance & Auditing; Director, Quality Commercial Operations at Abbott Diagnostics; Director, Quality for Abbott Hematology; Compliance Auditor, Abbott Corporate Regulatory & Quality Science and GMP Compliance Officer, Abbott Pharmaceutical Products.
Julie earned her Bachelor of Science in Medical Technology from Rush University and a Bachelor of Science in Science and Liberal Arts from Monmouth College.
Jeff Lawrence, Division Director for the Division of Environmental Health and Sustainability (“Division”), Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment
Jeff Lawrence is the Division Director for the Division of Environmental Health and Sustainability (“Division”) for the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment.
This division is comprised of 13 programs aimed to protect and improve Colorado’s environment and human health. These programs address food safety in retail food establishments, dairy operations from the farm to the production plant, wholesale food manufacturing facilities, environmental conditions in schools, child care facilities, and state correctional facilities, as well as protecting land, water, and air resources affected by the agricultural animal feeding industry; along with protecting and improving Colorado’s environment through programs that conserve and reuse resources, prevent pollution, and advance the principles of sustainable development.
Jeff has been with the Department for 25 years and has degrees in Environmental Health and Microbiology from Colorado State University.
Jeff Lawrence is the Division Director for the Division of Environmental Health and Sustainability (“Division”) for the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment.
This division is comprised of 13 programs aimed to protect and improve Colorado’s environment and human health. These programs address food safety in retail food establishments, dairy operations from the farm to the production plant, wholesale food manufacturing facilities, environmental conditions in schools, child care facilities, and state correctional facilities, as well as protecting land, water, and air resources affected by the agricultural animal feeding industry; along with protecting and improving Colorado’s environment through programs that conserve and reuse resources, prevent pollution, and advance the principles of sustainable development.
Jeff has been with the Department for 25 years and has degrees in Environmental Health and Microbiology from Colorado State University.
Brad Legreid, Executive Director, Wisconsin Dairy Products Association
Brad graduated with honors from University of Wisconsin – Madison and spent 35 years in association management. Since 1990, has been the Executive Director of the Wisconsin Dairy Products Association (WDPA). WDPA was formed in 1973 to represent all segments of the dairy processing industry. The organization represents both proprietary and cooperative dairy companies which manufacture a full range of dairy products. Brad is a member of numerous dairy-related committees, councils and boards and served 10 terms as president of the National Dairy Association Executive Council.
Brad graduated with honors from University of Wisconsin – Madison and spent 35 years in association management. Since 1990, has been the Executive Director of the Wisconsin Dairy Products Association (WDPA). WDPA was formed in 1973 to represent all segments of the dairy processing industry. The organization represents both proprietary and cooperative dairy companies which manufacture a full range of dairy products. Brad is a member of numerous dairy-related committees, councils and boards and served 10 terms as president of the National Dairy Association Executive Council.
Joseph A. Levitt, Partner, Washington, D.C.
As the FDA's former top food regulator, Attorney Joe Levitt brings a true insider's knowledge to helping food industry clients deal effectively with the FDA. Whether influencing policy making or confronting a threatened compliance action, Joe's 25 years of FDA experience puts clients in the best position to succeed.
As the FDA's former top food regulator, Attorney Joe Levitt brings a true insider's knowledge to helping food industry clients deal effectively with the FDA. Whether influencing policy making or confronting a threatened compliance action, Joe's 25 years of FDA experience puts clients in the best position to succeed.
Julie Loera, Food Safety subject matter expert, Division for Regulatory Services within the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS)
Julie Loera serves as the Food Safety subject matter expert for the Division for Regulatory Services within the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) in Austin, Texas. Julie is coordinating Agency efforts to maintain situational awareness regarding the effects of the Food Safety Modernization Act on Texas regulations, regulated industry, and the general public. She is leading the work group to adopt at the State level, the newly released Current Good Manufacturing Practice, Hazard Analysis, and Risk Based Preventive Controls for Human Food. Julie is also responsible for the implementation of the Manufactured Foods Regulatory Program Standards (MFRPS) in the DSHS Manufactured Foods Program as part of a U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) MFRPS Cooperative Agreement.
Julie continues to be an innovative leader in the development of the Texas Rapid Response Team for Foodborne Illness Investigations. Since the inception of the team in 2010, Julie has served in lead response roles during several nationwide outbreak investigations. Julie is an active member of the Partnership for Food Protection (PFP) and currently participates on the PFP IT Working Group.
Julie began her career with DSHS over 27 years ago. In the course of her career she has trained manufactured foods inspectors, drafted State regulations, and issued letters of warning, recommended enforcement actions, and attended informal hearings for firms not in compliance with State regulations. For several years Julie was responsible for overseeing and managing nine (9) Food, Drug, Environmental, and Radiation regulatory compliance programs that ensure the regulated community is compliant with State regulations.
Julie earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Biology from the University of Texas at Austin and a Master of Public Administration degree from Texas State University. Her master’s level Applied Research Project
entitled “A Model Approach to Developing Food Safety Emergency Response Standard Operating Procedures” was awarded the Phi Alpha Alpha National Manuscript Award.
Julie Loera serves as the Food Safety subject matter expert for the Division for Regulatory Services within the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) in Austin, Texas. Julie is coordinating Agency efforts to maintain situational awareness regarding the effects of the Food Safety Modernization Act on Texas regulations, regulated industry, and the general public. She is leading the work group to adopt at the State level, the newly released Current Good Manufacturing Practice, Hazard Analysis, and Risk Based Preventive Controls for Human Food. Julie is also responsible for the implementation of the Manufactured Foods Regulatory Program Standards (MFRPS) in the DSHS Manufactured Foods Program as part of a U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) MFRPS Cooperative Agreement.
Julie continues to be an innovative leader in the development of the Texas Rapid Response Team for Foodborne Illness Investigations. Since the inception of the team in 2010, Julie has served in lead response roles during several nationwide outbreak investigations. Julie is an active member of the Partnership for Food Protection (PFP) and currently participates on the PFP IT Working Group.
Julie began her career with DSHS over 27 years ago. In the course of her career she has trained manufactured foods inspectors, drafted State regulations, and issued letters of warning, recommended enforcement actions, and attended informal hearings for firms not in compliance with State regulations. For several years Julie was responsible for overseeing and managing nine (9) Food, Drug, Environmental, and Radiation regulatory compliance programs that ensure the regulated community is compliant with State regulations.
Julie earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in Biology from the University of Texas at Austin and a Master of Public Administration degree from Texas State University. Her master’s level Applied Research Project
entitled “A Model Approach to Developing Food Safety Emergency Response Standard Operating Procedures” was awarded the Phi Alpha Alpha National Manuscript Award.
Brian Ludovico, Executive Director, MDSAP Regulatory Certification
Brian Ludovico has over 20 years’ experience in medical quality systems and certification requirements. He was formerly with the certification body TUV Rheinland of North America Inc. (TRNA) for 21 years, most recently as the certification manager. He was responsible for the global management the Canadian Medical Devices Conformity Assessment System (CMDCAS) and the Medical Device Single Audit Program (MDSAP). Mr. Ludovico is qualified as a certification officer for quality system standards (EN ISO 13485, ISO 9001), EU directives (Medical Devices Directive and In Vitro Medical Devices Directive) and ISO 13485 under the CMDCAS Program. In addition, Mr. Ludovico performed assessments of medical device manufacturers in accordance with these standards and directives, and was involved in device reviews. His scope of expertise lies in sterilization and biocompatibility requirements and he represented TRNA as a member and Chair of the Health Canada-Registration Body Forum. He was active in issues concerning the Global Harmonization Task Force, the FDA AP (Accredited Persons) and Third Party Review Programs, and the PMAP (Pilot Multipurpose Audit Program) between the USA and Canada. Mr. Ludovico is a member of RAPS (Regulatory Affairs Professionals Society).
Brian Ludovico has over 20 years’ experience in medical quality systems and certification requirements. He was formerly with the certification body TUV Rheinland of North America Inc. (TRNA) for 21 years, most recently as the certification manager. He was responsible for the global management the Canadian Medical Devices Conformity Assessment System (CMDCAS) and the Medical Device Single Audit Program (MDSAP). Mr. Ludovico is qualified as a certification officer for quality system standards (EN ISO 13485, ISO 9001), EU directives (Medical Devices Directive and In Vitro Medical Devices Directive) and ISO 13485 under the CMDCAS Program. In addition, Mr. Ludovico performed assessments of medical device manufacturers in accordance with these standards and directives, and was involved in device reviews. His scope of expertise lies in sterilization and biocompatibility requirements and he represented TRNA as a member and Chair of the Health Canada-Registration Body Forum. He was active in issues concerning the Global Harmonization Task Force, the FDA AP (Accredited Persons) and Third Party Review Programs, and the PMAP (Pilot Multipurpose Audit Program) between the USA and Canada. Mr. Ludovico is a member of RAPS (Regulatory Affairs Professionals Society).
Steven Mandernach, Bureau Chief, Iowa Department of Inspections and Appeals’ Food and Consumer Safety Bureau, President of the Association of Food and Drug Officials
Steven Mandernach is the Bureau Chief for the Iowa Department of Inspections and Appeals’ Food and Consumer Safety Bureau. Mandernach is currently President of the Association of Food and Drug Officials and co-chair of the Association’s Laws and Regulations committee. He has served as the chair and co-chair for the Manufactured Food Regulatory Program Alliance. He is past president of the Mid-Continental Association of Food and Drug Officials.
Mandernach has a Juris Doctorate from Drake University Law School. He is currently pursuing a Master’s of Science in Food Safety from Michigan State University.
Steven Mandernach is the Bureau Chief for the Iowa Department of Inspections and Appeals’ Food and Consumer Safety Bureau. Mandernach is currently President of the Association of Food and Drug Officials and co-chair of the Association’s Laws and Regulations committee. He has served as the chair and co-chair for the Manufactured Food Regulatory Program Alliance. He is past president of the Mid-Continental Association of Food and Drug Officials.
Mandernach has a Juris Doctorate from Drake University Law School. He is currently pursuing a Master’s of Science in Food Safety from Michigan State University.
David R. Margrave, Chairman, Texas Healthcare and Bioscience Institute
David R. Margrave serves as Chairman and a Director of The Texas Healthcare and Bioscience Institute (THBI). He has served as a senior executive in the life science sector for the last two decades, including previous service as President and Chief Administrative Officer of BioNumerik Pharmaceuticals, Inc., focused on advancing innovative cancer therapies. Prior to joining BioNumerik, Mr. Margrave was a partner in the technology group at Andrews & Kurth LLP, a national law firm. Mr. Margrave also serves as Chairman and a Board Member of the State of Texas Product Development & Small Business Incubator Board. He is a past Director of the Texas Technology Transfer Association and a former Board Member of the Stanford Associates Board of Governors. Mr. Margrave received a Bachelor of Arts and Science degree from Stanford University and a J.D. degree from The University of Texas School of Law.
David R. Margrave serves as Chairman and a Director of The Texas Healthcare and Bioscience Institute (THBI). He has served as a senior executive in the life science sector for the last two decades, including previous service as President and Chief Administrative Officer of BioNumerik Pharmaceuticals, Inc., focused on advancing innovative cancer therapies. Prior to joining BioNumerik, Mr. Margrave was a partner in the technology group at Andrews & Kurth LLP, a national law firm. Mr. Margrave also serves as Chairman and a Board Member of the State of Texas Product Development & Small Business Incubator Board. He is a past Director of the Texas Technology Transfer Association and a former Board Member of the Stanford Associates Board of Governors. Mr. Margrave received a Bachelor of Arts and Science degree from Stanford University and a J.D. degree from The University of Texas School of Law.
Mary McGonigle-Martin M.S.
Mary McGonigle-Martin has Bachelor’s degrees in Sociology and Criminal Justice and a Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology. She has worked in education for the past 23 years as a school counselor. In 2006, her son Chris became ill from raw milk, developed Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome and spent two months in the hospital. Mary has become an advocate speaking out against the consumption of raw milk, especially for children. She has testified as an expert witness in 3 states against raw milk bills and has also written articles for Food Safety News.
Mary McGonigle-Martin has Bachelor’s degrees in Sociology and Criminal Justice and a Master’s degree in Counseling Psychology. She has worked in education for the past 23 years as a school counselor. In 2006, her son Chris became ill from raw milk, developed Hemolytic Uremic Syndrome and spent two months in the hospital. Mary has become an advocate speaking out against the consumption of raw milk, especially for children. She has testified as an expert witness in 3 states against raw milk bills and has also written articles for Food Safety News.
Amanda Moir, Director of the Consumer Health Products Modernization team, Natural and Non-Prescription Health Products Directorate, Health Products and Food Branch,
Health Canada
Amanda Moir joined the Natural and Non-prescription Health Products Directorate (NNHPD) at Health Canada in 2015, and is currently the Director of the Consumer Health Products Modernization team responsible for the development of a new framework for self-care products.
Prior to joining NNHPD, Amanda spent six years at Industry Canada (now Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada), where she led the implementation and management of a number of major federal investments supporting research and innovation. Previously, Amanda spent five years working in various policy positions at Health Canada, the Public Health Agency of Canada and the Patented Medicine Prices Review Board.
Amanda has a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) degree and a Master of Public Administration degree from Queen’s University.
Health Canada
Amanda Moir joined the Natural and Non-prescription Health Products Directorate (NNHPD) at Health Canada in 2015, and is currently the Director of the Consumer Health Products Modernization team responsible for the development of a new framework for self-care products.
Prior to joining NNHPD, Amanda spent six years at Industry Canada (now Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada), where she led the implementation and management of a number of major federal investments supporting research and innovation. Previously, Amanda spent five years working in various policy positions at Health Canada, the Public Health Agency of Canada and the Patented Medicine Prices Review Board.
Amanda has a Bachelor of Arts (Honours) degree and a Master of Public Administration degree from Queen’s University.
Angela Montalbano, Supervisor of Food Safety and Inspection, NYS Department of Agriculture
Angela Montalbank graduated with a BS in Biology from State University at Brockport in 1990. She started her career with NYS Department of Agriculture in 1990 where is currently holds the position of Supervisor of Food Safety and Inspection. Angela has received numerous recognition awards from New York State Department of Agriculture, AFDO and other associations. She is an AFDO Retail Food Committee Chairperson, past president of NY CASA Conference and a IFPTI Cohort 1 Fellow.
Angela Montalbank graduated with a BS in Biology from State University at Brockport in 1990. She started her career with NYS Department of Agriculture in 1990 where is currently holds the position of Supervisor of Food Safety and Inspection. Angela has received numerous recognition awards from New York State Department of Agriculture, AFDO and other associations. She is an AFDO Retail Food Committee Chairperson, past president of NY CASA Conference and a IFPTI Cohort 1 Fellow.
Ken Moore, Executive Director, Interstate Shellfish Sanitation Conference
Ken Moore has served as Executive Director of the Interstate Shellfish Sanitation Conference since 1993. The ISSC is a public health organization that fosters and promotes shellfish sanitation through the cooperation of state and federal control agencies, the shellfish industry and the academic community. Mr. Moore has a Master’s Degree in Business Administration and Public Administration and a Bachelor of Science in Biology. Prior to serving as Executive Director he was the ISSC Executive Board Chairman. Mr. Moore came to the ISSC from the SC Department of Health and Environmental Control where he managed that State’s Shellfish Sanitation Program and the State Law Enforcement Unit. His many recognitions in shellfish sanitation include the Cooperative State Research and Education Extension Award for Leadership in HACCP and the United States Department of Agriculture’s Honor Award for Leadership in HACCP.
Ken Moore has served as Executive Director of the Interstate Shellfish Sanitation Conference since 1993. The ISSC is a public health organization that fosters and promotes shellfish sanitation through the cooperation of state and federal control agencies, the shellfish industry and the academic community. Mr. Moore has a Master’s Degree in Business Administration and Public Administration and a Bachelor of Science in Biology. Prior to serving as Executive Director he was the ISSC Executive Board Chairman. Mr. Moore came to the ISSC from the SC Department of Health and Environmental Control where he managed that State’s Shellfish Sanitation Program and the State Law Enforcement Unit. His many recognitions in shellfish sanitation include the Cooperative State Research and Education Extension Award for Leadership in HACCP and the United States Department of Agriculture’s Honor Award for Leadership in HACCP.
Robert J. Morgan, Director of Technical Committee Operations, ASTM International
Bob’s 35 year professional career has been with ASTM International. Bob started out as a staff manger and is currently Director of Standards Development and Membership Promotion. Throughout Bob’s career, he has worked with a variety of industries, supporting their standards development needs. Bob earned his BS in Geoenvironmental Science from Shippensburg University in 1981.
Bob’s 35 year professional career has been with ASTM International. Bob started out as a staff manger and is currently Director of Standards Development and Membership Promotion. Throughout Bob’s career, he has worked with a variety of industries, supporting their standards development needs. Bob earned his BS in Geoenvironmental Science from Shippensburg University in 1981.
Ellen Fitzgerald Morrison, Assistant Commissioner, Medical Products and Tobacco Operations, Office of Regulatory Affairs, Food and Drug Administration
Ms. Morrison is the Assistant Commissioner for Medical Products and Tobacco Operations (ACMPTO) in the Office of Regulatory Affairs (ORA) at the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) leading a team that serves as focal point for coordination and management of ORA’s medical product and tobacco field activities. Ms. Morrison received her B.A. in Biology from Regis College, and completed graduate work in Environmental Health at New York University; she has completed courses in Crisis Management Leadership and National Preparedness Leadership at Harvard University Kennedy School of Government, and also attained a graduate certificate in Terrorism Studies from the University of St. Andrews
In 2002, FDA named Ms. Morrison the Director of Emergency Operations, Office of Crisis Management, where she directed and coordinated FDA’s emergency preparedness and response activities with federal, state, local, and international agencies, becoming the first Director of the Office of Crisis Management in 2003. She returned to ORA first as acting in 2012 and then officially in 2013, as the Assistant Commissioner for Operations. In 2017, she took on the role of Assistant Commissioner for Medical Products and Tobacco Operations for ORA, providing leadership for and management of the program directors for biological products, bioresearch monitoring, medical devices and radiological health, and pharmaceutical quality operations. She has received numerous awards and citations for her public service and embraces her role as a public servant and mentor to the next generation of those seeking to
secure the public’s health.
Ms. Morrison is the Assistant Commissioner for Medical Products and Tobacco Operations (ACMPTO) in the Office of Regulatory Affairs (ORA) at the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) leading a team that serves as focal point for coordination and management of ORA’s medical product and tobacco field activities. Ms. Morrison received her B.A. in Biology from Regis College, and completed graduate work in Environmental Health at New York University; she has completed courses in Crisis Management Leadership and National Preparedness Leadership at Harvard University Kennedy School of Government, and also attained a graduate certificate in Terrorism Studies from the University of St. Andrews
In 2002, FDA named Ms. Morrison the Director of Emergency Operations, Office of Crisis Management, where she directed and coordinated FDA’s emergency preparedness and response activities with federal, state, local, and international agencies, becoming the first Director of the Office of Crisis Management in 2003. She returned to ORA first as acting in 2012 and then officially in 2013, as the Assistant Commissioner for Operations. In 2017, she took on the role of Assistant Commissioner for Medical Products and Tobacco Operations for ORA, providing leadership for and management of the program directors for biological products, bioresearch monitoring, medical devices and radiological health, and pharmaceutical quality operations. She has received numerous awards and citations for her public service and embraces her role as a public servant and mentor to the next generation of those seeking to
secure the public’s health.
Skya Murphy, Program and Policy Analyst and Manufactured Food Regulatory Program Standards Coordinator, Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (WDATCP)
Skya Murphy is a Program and Policy Analyst and Manufactured Food Regulatory Program Standards Coordinator for the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (WDATCP) where she has worked since 2011. Her background is in policy analysis, food service, small scale-agriculture, and tropical ecology. Skya earned Bachelor of Art degrees in Spanish and Biological Aspects of Conservation from the University of Wisconsin, Madison in 1999, and a Master of Science in Environmental Science from Florida International University, Miami, in 2005.
As a certified project manager, Skya coordinates all aspects of implementation, evaluation and reporting for the FDA’s Manufactured Food Regulatory Program Standards in Wisconsin. She is currently working with the Minneapolis District of the FDA to incorporate mutual reliance activities such as inspections planning and avoidance of duplication into WDATCP’s routine practices. Skya routinely uses program data to evaluate the effectiveness of Wisconsin’s regulatory approach and makes recommendations to improve the way WDATCP accomplishes its mission. She has been a member of the Association of Food and Drug Officials (AFDO) since 2012. Ms. Murphy is a world traveler looking forward to a trip to Spain this summer, who also enjoys kayaking, hiking, camping, and literature. Mentor: Joe Corby
Skya Murphy is a Program and Policy Analyst and Manufactured Food Regulatory Program Standards Coordinator for the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (WDATCP) where she has worked since 2011. Her background is in policy analysis, food service, small scale-agriculture, and tropical ecology. Skya earned Bachelor of Art degrees in Spanish and Biological Aspects of Conservation from the University of Wisconsin, Madison in 1999, and a Master of Science in Environmental Science from Florida International University, Miami, in 2005.
As a certified project manager, Skya coordinates all aspects of implementation, evaluation and reporting for the FDA’s Manufactured Food Regulatory Program Standards in Wisconsin. She is currently working with the Minneapolis District of the FDA to incorporate mutual reliance activities such as inspections planning and avoidance of duplication into WDATCP’s routine practices. Skya routinely uses program data to evaluate the effectiveness of Wisconsin’s regulatory approach and makes recommendations to improve the way WDATCP accomplishes its mission. She has been a member of the Association of Food and Drug Officials (AFDO) since 2012. Ms. Murphy is a world traveler looking forward to a trip to Spain this summer, who also enjoys kayaking, hiking, camping, and literature. Mentor: Joe Corby
Dr. Jay Neal, Assistant Provost, University of Houston at Sugar Land Campus
Dr. Jay Neal is the assistant provost at the University of Houston at Sugar Land campus. Prior to his current assignment he served as an associate professor at the Conrad N. Hilton College of Hotel and Restaurant Management at the University of Houston. He received my PhD in Food Microbiology at Texas A&M University. Earlier to his advance degrees he worked as a general manager for a local restaurant chain. Dr. Neal taught undergraduate Food Safety and Sanitation and graduate Food Service Systems for fourteen years. He continues to conduct research and his current research is concerning the development of effective behavior based standard operating procedures for fresh and fresh cut produce in retail and food service operations. Jay serves as a member of the Executive Board for the Conference for Food Protection. He is also the chair of the retail and foodservice professional development group for the International Association of Food Protection.
Dr. Jay Neal is the assistant provost at the University of Houston at Sugar Land campus. Prior to his current assignment he served as an associate professor at the Conrad N. Hilton College of Hotel and Restaurant Management at the University of Houston. He received my PhD in Food Microbiology at Texas A&M University. Earlier to his advance degrees he worked as a general manager for a local restaurant chain. Dr. Neal taught undergraduate Food Safety and Sanitation and graduate Food Service Systems for fourteen years. He continues to conduct research and his current research is concerning the development of effective behavior based standard operating procedures for fresh and fresh cut produce in retail and food service operations. Jay serves as a member of the Executive Board for the Conference for Food Protection. He is also the chair of the retail and foodservice professional development group for the International Association of Food Protection.
Darrell A. Newell, Director of Retail Food Safety and Quality Assurance, CFS
Darrell A. Newell, Director of Retail Food Safety and Quality Assurance has over 16 years of food safety experience. He serves as a food safety consultant, auditor and trainer. He held prominent positions with Pathmark, The Great Atlantic & Pacific Tea Co., Fairfax County Health department (Virginia) and CASA (NY Conference). He helped developed a food safety culture through process improvements. He maintained great working relationships with government and industry partners to help affect change. At CFS, we believe in building food safety culture and that starts with a commitment to food safety.
Darrell A. Newell, Director of Retail Food Safety and Quality Assurance has over 16 years of food safety experience. He serves as a food safety consultant, auditor and trainer. He held prominent positions with Pathmark, The Great Atlantic & Pacific Tea Co., Fairfax County Health department (Virginia) and CASA (NY Conference). He helped developed a food safety culture through process improvements. He maintained great working relationships with government and industry partners to help affect change. At CFS, we believe in building food safety culture and that starts with a commitment to food safety.
Tara Paster, CP-FS, FMP, President, Paster Training, Inc.
Tara Paster, President of Paster Training, Inc., is dedicated to reaching, educating, and positively impacting the food and beverage industry by delivering training excellence to all industry members and regulators. As a Certified Professional in Food Safety (CP-FS) and a Food Management Professional (FMP), Ms. Paster has been leading and cultivating the hospitality industry as a consultant and trainer. She is one of the leading national speakers on food safety and responsible alcohol awareness and is a valued expert witness. She is a Council Member for the Conference for Food Protection in addition to being an influential member to many national organizations.
Tara Paster, President of Paster Training, Inc., is dedicated to reaching, educating, and positively impacting the food and beverage industry by delivering training excellence to all industry members and regulators. As a Certified Professional in Food Safety (CP-FS) and a Food Management Professional (FMP), Ms. Paster has been leading and cultivating the hospitality industry as a consultant and trainer. She is one of the leading national speakers on food safety and responsible alcohol awareness and is a valued expert witness. She is a Council Member for the Conference for Food Protection in addition to being an influential member to many national organizations.
Marla A. Phillips, Ph.D. Director, Xavier Health. Xavier University
Marla joined Xavier University in 2008 as the Director of Xavier Health, where she leads initiatives with FDA officials and Pharmaceutical and Medical Device professionals. Marla began working in the pharmaceutical industry for Merck in 1996 where she took on roles of increasing responsibility, culminating in position of Head of Quality Operations at the Merck North Carolina facility. She holds a B.S. in Chemistry from Xavier University, and a Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry from the University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill.
Marla joined Xavier University in 2008 as the Director of Xavier Health, where she leads initiatives with FDA officials and Pharmaceutical and Medical Device professionals. Marla began working in the pharmaceutical industry for Merck in 1996 where she took on roles of increasing responsibility, culminating in position of Head of Quality Operations at the Merck North Carolina facility. She holds a B.S. in Chemistry from Xavier University, and a Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry from the University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill.
David Plunkett, Senior Staff Attorney to the Food Safety Program, Center for Science in the Public Interest
David Plunkett is an attorney in Virginia who works on consumer food safety issues. From August 2007 to March 2017, he served as Senior Staff Attorney for the food safety program at the Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI) where he worked on reforming federal food safety laws. Prior to joining CSPI, he served as legislative director and counsel to Members of Congress. His publications include articles on regulatory and legal issues affecting food safety published in the Food and Drug Law Institute Update, Food and Drug Law Journal, Food Protection Trends, and Food Traceability Report. He is a frequent panelist and moderator at professional workshops on issues ranging from traceability of food to trade to the role of inspections in Federal food safety efforts. He also represents consumer interests on the executive boards of the Conference for Food Protection and the Equitable Food Initiative. Mr. Plunkett earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Georgia, and holds a Juris Master’s in public policy with an emphasis on law and economics and a Juris Doctor with a specialty in regulatory law from George Mason University School of Law. He is a member of the Virginia State Bar and the American Bar Association.
David Plunkett is an attorney in Virginia who works on consumer food safety issues. From August 2007 to March 2017, he served as Senior Staff Attorney for the food safety program at the Center for Science in the Public Interest (CSPI) where he worked on reforming federal food safety laws. Prior to joining CSPI, he served as legislative director and counsel to Members of Congress. His publications include articles on regulatory and legal issues affecting food safety published in the Food and Drug Law Institute Update, Food and Drug Law Journal, Food Protection Trends, and Food Traceability Report. He is a frequent panelist and moderator at professional workshops on issues ranging from traceability of food to trade to the role of inspections in Federal food safety efforts. He also represents consumer interests on the executive boards of the Conference for Food Protection and the Equitable Food Initiative. Mr. Plunkett earned a bachelor’s degree in journalism from the University of Georgia, and holds a Juris Master’s in public policy with an emphasis on law and economics and a Juris Doctor with a specialty in regulatory law from George Mason University School of Law. He is a member of the Virginia State Bar and the American Bar Association.
Vince Radke , Sanitarian, Environmental Health Services Branch, Division of Emergency and Environmental Services, National Center for Environmental Health/Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Vince Radke has worked at the Environmental Health Services Branch of the National Center for Environmental Health at CDC since 2001. Vince has been a part of the Environmental Health Specialists Network (EHS-Net) and the National Environmental Assessment Reporting System (NEARS) working on a number of research studies and outbreaks looking at contributing factors and antecedents to contributing factors of foodborne illness. Prior to CDC, Vince spent 22 years in the environmental health field at the state and local levels in the states of CT, WV, VA and MN.
Vince Radke has worked at the Environmental Health Services Branch of the National Center for Environmental Health at CDC since 2001. Vince has been a part of the Environmental Health Specialists Network (EHS-Net) and the National Environmental Assessment Reporting System (NEARS) working on a number of research studies and outbreaks looking at contributing factors and antecedents to contributing factors of foodborne illness. Prior to CDC, Vince spent 22 years in the environmental health field at the state and local levels in the states of CT, WV, VA and MN.
Jonathan S. Radtke, Water Sustainability Program Director, Coca-Cola North America
Jon Radtke is the Water Sustainability Program Director for Coca-Cola North America based in Atlanta, GA. In this role, he manages the company’s water stewardship program, which assesses and mitigates water risks facing Coca-Cola operations. Primary areas of focus include water efficiency initiatives, source water protection strategies, community water partnerships and sustainable agriculture initiatives within the supply chain. One goal of the Company is to return to nature and communities an amount of water equivalent to the water used in Coca-Cola’s beverages and their production by 2020. Mr. Radtke’s leadership has helped the Company to reach this goal five years early and to position The Coca-Cola Company as an industry leader in water stewardship.
Jon has a Bachelor degree in Geology and a Masters in Hydrogeology with over 25 years of professional experience managing a wide range of water supply and environmental projects.
Jon Radtke is the Water Sustainability Program Director for Coca-Cola North America based in Atlanta, GA. In this role, he manages the company’s water stewardship program, which assesses and mitigates water risks facing Coca-Cola operations. Primary areas of focus include water efficiency initiatives, source water protection strategies, community water partnerships and sustainable agriculture initiatives within the supply chain. One goal of the Company is to return to nature and communities an amount of water equivalent to the water used in Coca-Cola’s beverages and their production by 2020. Mr. Radtke’s leadership has helped the Company to reach this goal five years early and to position The Coca-Cola Company as an industry leader in water stewardship.
Jon has a Bachelor degree in Geology and a Masters in Hydrogeology with over 25 years of professional experience managing a wide range of water supply and environmental projects.
Mark M. Reed, R.S., MPA, MPH, Project Manager, AFDO
Mark M. Reed is a native of Liberty, Kentucky. He retired on August 1, 2016 after 27 years of service in Food Protection both at the local health department and state Department for Public Health levels. At the time of his retirement, Mr. Reed was the Food Program Manager for the Kentucky Department for Public Health.
Throughout his public health career, he has organized and conducted scores of food safety training classes for the food-service industry, general public, local health department sanitarians, and professional associations. Mark has also appeared on radio and television shows to promote food safety. He was honored for his educational commitment and talent as a trainer in February 2003 with the Kentucky Registered Sanitarian Educational Training Award. Following a high-profile and successful 2013 multi-state Salmonella outbreak investigation involving cantaloupe, his team, together with the Indiana State Department of Health, was awarded the prestigious John J. Guzewich Environmental Health Team Award. Mark was also presented with an FDA Leveraging Collaboration Award in 2013 for his work on the outbreak investigation team.
Mr. Reed received his Master of Public Administration (MPA) degree from Eastern Kentucky University in 2001. Mark also received a Master of Public Health (MPH) degree from EKU in April 2006. From 2007-2010 Mark served as an adjunct professor for EKU’s nationally recognized undergraduate program in Environmental Health Science, teaching both Introduction to Environmental Health Science and Food Hygiene classes for the university. Mark is a Past-President of the Association of Food and Drug Officials of the Southern States (AFDOSS). Following his retirement, Mark joined AFDO in October 2016 as Project Manager for the organization’s National Curriculum Standards (NCS) Cooperative Agreement Grant. Mr. Reed is excited to be working with AFDO and its partners to advance a Nationally Integrated Food Safety System.
Mark M. Reed is a native of Liberty, Kentucky. He retired on August 1, 2016 after 27 years of service in Food Protection both at the local health department and state Department for Public Health levels. At the time of his retirement, Mr. Reed was the Food Program Manager for the Kentucky Department for Public Health.
Throughout his public health career, he has organized and conducted scores of food safety training classes for the food-service industry, general public, local health department sanitarians, and professional associations. Mark has also appeared on radio and television shows to promote food safety. He was honored for his educational commitment and talent as a trainer in February 2003 with the Kentucky Registered Sanitarian Educational Training Award. Following a high-profile and successful 2013 multi-state Salmonella outbreak investigation involving cantaloupe, his team, together with the Indiana State Department of Health, was awarded the prestigious John J. Guzewich Environmental Health Team Award. Mark was also presented with an FDA Leveraging Collaboration Award in 2013 for his work on the outbreak investigation team.
Mr. Reed received his Master of Public Administration (MPA) degree from Eastern Kentucky University in 2001. Mark also received a Master of Public Health (MPH) degree from EKU in April 2006. From 2007-2010 Mark served as an adjunct professor for EKU’s nationally recognized undergraduate program in Environmental Health Science, teaching both Introduction to Environmental Health Science and Food Hygiene classes for the university. Mark is a Past-President of the Association of Food and Drug Officials of the Southern States (AFDOSS). Following his retirement, Mark joined AFDO in October 2016 as Project Manager for the organization’s National Curriculum Standards (NCS) Cooperative Agreement Grant. Mr. Reed is excited to be working with AFDO and its partners to advance a Nationally Integrated Food Safety System.
Nathaniel Rice, Behavioral Toxicologist, ORISE Postdoctoral Fellow, USAMRICD
Nathaniel Rice received his Ph.D. from West Virginia University, where he studied learning and forgetting in timing tasks and developed a slot-machine analogue to evaluate gambling and risk-taking behavior in pigeons. Now a postdoctoral fellow at the United States Army Medical Research Institute of Chemical Defense, he continues to develop animal models to characterize physiological, pharmacological, and behavioral effects of chemical agent exposure and to evaluate the safety and efficacy of traditional and newly developed medical countermeasures. The team Dr. Rice serves on has successfully developed behavioral models for mice, rats, guinea pigs, ferrets, swine, and multiple species of non-human primates in support of studies funded by the Department of Defense and the National Institutes of Health. Recently, Dr. Rice has led the project which developed a voluntary ingestion model for poisons, behaviorally characterize the resulting toxidrome, and test potentially efficacious treatments.
Nathaniel Rice received his Ph.D. from West Virginia University, where he studied learning and forgetting in timing tasks and developed a slot-machine analogue to evaluate gambling and risk-taking behavior in pigeons. Now a postdoctoral fellow at the United States Army Medical Research Institute of Chemical Defense, he continues to develop animal models to characterize physiological, pharmacological, and behavioral effects of chemical agent exposure and to evaluate the safety and efficacy of traditional and newly developed medical countermeasures. The team Dr. Rice serves on has successfully developed behavioral models for mice, rats, guinea pigs, ferrets, swine, and multiple species of non-human primates in support of studies funded by the Department of Defense and the National Institutes of Health. Recently, Dr. Rice has led the project which developed a voluntary ingestion model for poisons, behaviorally characterize the resulting toxidrome, and test potentially efficacious treatments.
Carrie Rigdon, PhD, Response, Training, and Outreach Supervisor, Food and Feed Safety Division of the Minnesota Department of Agriculture.
Carrie Rigdon is the Response, Training, and Outreach Supervisor in the Food and Feed Safety Division of the Minnesota Department of Agriculture. She currently supervises the Department’s response to food and feed-related outbreaks and contamination investigations, and has been with the Minnesota Dept. of Agriculture’s Rapid Response Team, or RRT, since 2009 as part of the FDA’s national RRT program. She earned her MPH in Epidemiology from San Diego State University and her PhD in Environmental Health from the University of Minnesota.
Carrie Rigdon is the Response, Training, and Outreach Supervisor in the Food and Feed Safety Division of the Minnesota Department of Agriculture. She currently supervises the Department’s response to food and feed-related outbreaks and contamination investigations, and has been with the Minnesota Dept. of Agriculture’s Rapid Response Team, or RRT, since 2009 as part of the FDA’s national RRT program. She earned her MPH in Epidemiology from San Diego State University and her PhD in Environmental Health from the University of Minnesota.
Michael C. Rogers, MS, Acting Assistant Commissioner for Human and Animal Food Operations, Office of Regulatory Affairs (ORA)
Michael C. Rogers is the acting assistant commissioner for human and animal food (HAF) operations in the Office of Regulatory Affairs (ORA), focusing on inspection and compliance related issues in the human and animal food programs, overseeing the program directors for east and west HAF operations as well as state cooperative programs. Mr. Rogers joined the FDA in 1991 as a field investigator in the Baltimore District. He then became a supervisory investigator at the Northern Virginia Resident Post, a branch director at FDA headquarters, the director of the Division of Field Investigations, and was later selected as the director of FDA's Latin American Office.
Mr. Rogers has a Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry and zoology from North Carolina State University, and a master’s degree in management from the University of Maryland University College.
Michael C. Rogers is the acting assistant commissioner for human and animal food (HAF) operations in the Office of Regulatory Affairs (ORA), focusing on inspection and compliance related issues in the human and animal food programs, overseeing the program directors for east and west HAF operations as well as state cooperative programs. Mr. Rogers joined the FDA in 1991 as a field investigator in the Baltimore District. He then became a supervisory investigator at the Northern Virginia Resident Post, a branch director at FDA headquarters, the director of the Division of Field Investigations, and was later selected as the director of FDA's Latin American Office.
Mr. Rogers has a Bachelor of Science degree in chemistry and zoology from North Carolina State University, and a master’s degree in management from the University of Maryland University College.
Rogercarole Rogers, President, RcRogers & Associates
Rogercarole Rogers is President of RcRogers & Associates, a diversity and inclusion, human resources consulting organization. The goal of RcRogers & Associates is to enable organizations to fully engage their workforces by increasing both corporate and individual cultural intelligence. Through her work with McDonald’s and the Multicultural Foodservice & Hospitality Alliance, Rogercarole has developed and implemented processes that have increased diversity awareness and improved management of the ever-changing workforce and customer base.
Rogercarole Rogers is President of RcRogers & Associates, a diversity and inclusion, human resources consulting organization. The goal of RcRogers & Associates is to enable organizations to fully engage their workforces by increasing both corporate and individual cultural intelligence. Through her work with McDonald’s and the Multicultural Foodservice & Hospitality Alliance, Rogercarole has developed and implemented processes that have increased diversity awareness and improved management of the ever-changing workforce and customer base.
Pete Salsbury, Project Manager, Food and Drug Administration's (FDA) Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition (CFSAN), Retail Food Protection Staff.
Pete is a project manager for several projects including the Partnership for Food Protection, partnership projects with the Restaurant and Retail Food Store industries, and a Cooperative Agreement with NACCHO to Strengthen and Promote the Role of Local Health Departments in Retail Food Safety Regulation.
Pete previously has worked at CFSAN as a Special Assistant in CFSAN’s Office of the Center Director and a science policy analyst on the Executive Operation Staff.
Pete is a project manager for several projects including the Partnership for Food Protection, partnership projects with the Restaurant and Retail Food Store industries, and a Cooperative Agreement with NACCHO to Strengthen and Promote the Role of Local Health Departments in Retail Food Safety Regulation.
Pete previously has worked at CFSAN as a Special Assistant in CFSAN’s Office of the Center Director and a science policy analyst on the Executive Operation Staff.
Autumn Schuck, Inspection Manager for the Food Safety and Lodging Division, Kansas Department of Agriculture
Autumn Schuck is the Inspection Manager for the Food Safety and Lodging Division within the Kansas Department of Agriculture, a position she has held since January 2016. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Hotel and Restaurant Management from Kansas State University in 2000.
Earlier in her food safety career, she has held positions within the Food Safety Division as an inspector, Field Supervisor, and Contract Supervisor. She also has experience as a third-party auditor. In her role as the Inspection Manager, Autumn serves as a resource to field staff and field supervisors throughout the state. As an extension of her Fellowship project, Ms. Schuck is collaborating with the Confucius Institute on a Culinary Class project focused on proper food safety practices during Chinese cuisine food preparation. After this pilot project, she is hoping to extend the project into different cuisines to provide outreach and improve food safety. Mentor: Cameron Smoak
Autumn Schuck is the Inspection Manager for the Food Safety and Lodging Division within the Kansas Department of Agriculture, a position she has held since January 2016. She earned her Bachelor of Science in Hotel and Restaurant Management from Kansas State University in 2000.
Earlier in her food safety career, she has held positions within the Food Safety Division as an inspector, Field Supervisor, and Contract Supervisor. She also has experience as a third-party auditor. In her role as the Inspection Manager, Autumn serves as a resource to field staff and field supervisors throughout the state. As an extension of her Fellowship project, Ms. Schuck is collaborating with the Confucius Institute on a Culinary Class project focused on proper food safety practices during Chinese cuisine food preparation. After this pilot project, she is hoping to extend the project into different cuisines to provide outreach and improve food safety. Mentor: Cameron Smoak
Kara Sewalk, Program Coordinator, HealthMap
Kara Sewalk is a Program Coordinator at HealthMap, the computational epidemiology lab at Boston Children’s Hospital. She works on several digital health projects by managing the development and/or continued implementation of research tools, data collection and research analysis. She is passionate about controlling and preventing the spread of infectious disease through data-driven interventions. Kara has a diverse background in psychology research, epidemiology research methods and statistical analysis. She received her MPH from the Boston University School of Public Health with a concentration in epidemiology.
Kara Sewalk is a Program Coordinator at HealthMap, the computational epidemiology lab at Boston Children’s Hospital. She works on several digital health projects by managing the development and/or continued implementation of research tools, data collection and research analysis. She is passionate about controlling and preventing the spread of infectious disease through data-driven interventions. Kara has a diverse background in psychology research, epidemiology research methods and statistical analysis. She received her MPH from the Boston University School of Public Health with a concentration in epidemiology.
Kyle Shannon, Rapid Response Team (RRT) Coordinator, Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (MDHMH)
Kyle Shannon joined the Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (MDHMH) in June 2013, and serves as the Rapid Response Team (RRT) Coordinator. Kyle earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Maryland Baltimore County in 1999 and became a Board Certified Licensed Environmental Health Specialist in the State of Maryland in 2003. Prior to coming to MDHMH, Kyle was employed by the Anne Arundel County Department of Health (AACDH). With AACDH, he worked in the Housing and Food Protection Services Program and then as a specialist in the control of Zoonotic and Vector-borne Diseases and was the primary AACDH Emergency Operations Center Representative.
As the MDHMH RRT Coordinator, Kyle is the primary point of contact for the FDA Baltimore District Office Emergency Response Coordinator, and is responsible for coordinating responses to foodborne disease outbreaks, food recalls, and other food emergencies within the Office of Food Protection (OFP) at MDHMH. In addition, he develops and provides training for Maryland RRT members in emergency response and food emergencies, and is an active member of the MDHMH Emergency Management Team which acts as Liaisons for the Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) during all-hazards emergencies. In addition, to completing the Fellowship, as the MDHMH RRT Coordinator, Kyle is preparing to submit a continuation application for the RRT Cooperative Agreement with FDA and will continue to work with MDHMH Center for Food Processing for compliance with the Manufactured Food Regulatory Program Standard, particularly Standard 5, Food-related Illness, Outbreak, and Hazards Response. Mentors: Joe Corby and Dan Sowards (Deceased March 29, 2017)
Kyle Shannon joined the Maryland Department of Health and Mental Hygiene (MDHMH) in June 2013, and serves as the Rapid Response Team (RRT) Coordinator. Kyle earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology from the University of Maryland Baltimore County in 1999 and became a Board Certified Licensed Environmental Health Specialist in the State of Maryland in 2003. Prior to coming to MDHMH, Kyle was employed by the Anne Arundel County Department of Health (AACDH). With AACDH, he worked in the Housing and Food Protection Services Program and then as a specialist in the control of Zoonotic and Vector-borne Diseases and was the primary AACDH Emergency Operations Center Representative.
As the MDHMH RRT Coordinator, Kyle is the primary point of contact for the FDA Baltimore District Office Emergency Response Coordinator, and is responsible for coordinating responses to foodborne disease outbreaks, food recalls, and other food emergencies within the Office of Food Protection (OFP) at MDHMH. In addition, he develops and provides training for Maryland RRT members in emergency response and food emergencies, and is an active member of the MDHMH Emergency Management Team which acts as Liaisons for the Maryland Emergency Management Agency (MEMA) during all-hazards emergencies. In addition, to completing the Fellowship, as the MDHMH RRT Coordinator, Kyle is preparing to submit a continuation application for the RRT Cooperative Agreement with FDA and will continue to work with MDHMH Center for Food Processing for compliance with the Manufactured Food Regulatory Program Standard, particularly Standard 5, Food-related Illness, Outbreak, and Hazards Response. Mentors: Joe Corby and Dan Sowards (Deceased March 29, 2017)
Sherri Sigwarth, Food Safety Specialist, Iowa Department of Inspections and Appeals, Food and Consumer Safety Bureau
Sherri Sigwarth is a Food Safety Specialist for the Iowa Department of Inspections and Appeals, Food and Consumer Safety Bureau, where she has served since 2013. She graduated with an Associate of Science degree (AS) in Dental Hygiene and is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Health Care Leadership Administration at the University of Dubuque. After graduating with her AS, Sherri worked in the dental field for nineteen years. She also has worked in the restaurant industry for twenty-five years in a high-volume, multi-faceted, full-service restaurant.
Currently, Sherri performs retail food inspections in five counties in Northeast Iowa. She is a member of the Association of Food and Drug Officials (AFDO) and the National Environmental Health Association (NEHA). Ms. Sigwarth loves being involved in her hometown of Balltown, Iowa where she is the current mayor and lives with her husband and two children. Mentor: Steve Steinhoff
Sherri Sigwarth is a Food Safety Specialist for the Iowa Department of Inspections and Appeals, Food and Consumer Safety Bureau, where she has served since 2013. She graduated with an Associate of Science degree (AS) in Dental Hygiene and is pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Health Care Leadership Administration at the University of Dubuque. After graduating with her AS, Sherri worked in the dental field for nineteen years. She also has worked in the restaurant industry for twenty-five years in a high-volume, multi-faceted, full-service restaurant.
Currently, Sherri performs retail food inspections in five counties in Northeast Iowa. She is a member of the Association of Food and Drug Officials (AFDO) and the National Environmental Health Association (NEHA). Ms. Sigwarth loves being involved in her hometown of Balltown, Iowa where she is the current mayor and lives with her husband and two children. Mentor: Steve Steinhoff
Umair A. Shah, M.D.. M.P.H., Executive Director and Local Health Authority, Harris County Public Health (HCPH)
Since 2013, Dr. Umair A. Shah has served as Executive Director and Local Health Authority for Harris County Public Health (HCPH) - the county public health agency for the nation's 3ro largest county with 4.5 million people located in Houston.
Dr. Shah earned his B.A. (philosophy) from Vanderbilt University; his M.D. from the University of Toledo Health Science Center; and completed an Internal Medicine Residency, Primary Care/General Medicine Fellowship, and M.P.H. (management), at The University of Texas Health Science Center. During his training, he also finished an
international health policy internship at World Health Organization headquarters in Geneva.
Upon completing his training, Dr. Shah began a distinguished career as an emergency department physician at Houston's Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center. He started his public health work as the Chief Medical Officer at the Galveston County Health District before joining HCPH to oversee its extensive clinical health system and infectious disease portfolio.
Under his leadership, HCPH has won numerous national awards for its transformationalwork including recognition as the Local Health Department of the Year by the National Association of County and City Health Officials (NACCHO) in 2016. Dr. Shah is slated to serve as NACCHO President in July 2017 and currently serves as President of the Texas Association of City & County Health Officials (TACCHO).
Over his career, Dr. Shah has been a clinician, an innovator, an educator, and a leader in public health.
Since 2013, Dr. Umair A. Shah has served as Executive Director and Local Health Authority for Harris County Public Health (HCPH) - the county public health agency for the nation's 3ro largest county with 4.5 million people located in Houston.
Dr. Shah earned his B.A. (philosophy) from Vanderbilt University; his M.D. from the University of Toledo Health Science Center; and completed an Internal Medicine Residency, Primary Care/General Medicine Fellowship, and M.P.H. (management), at The University of Texas Health Science Center. During his training, he also finished an
international health policy internship at World Health Organization headquarters in Geneva.
Upon completing his training, Dr. Shah began a distinguished career as an emergency department physician at Houston's Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center. He started his public health work as the Chief Medical Officer at the Galveston County Health District before joining HCPH to oversee its extensive clinical health system and infectious disease portfolio.
Under his leadership, HCPH has won numerous national awards for its transformationalwork including recognition as the Local Health Department of the Year by the National Association of County and City Health Officials (NACCHO) in 2016. Dr. Shah is slated to serve as NACCHO President in July 2017 and currently serves as President of the Texas Association of City & County Health Officials (TACCHO).
Over his career, Dr. Shah has been a clinician, an innovator, an educator, and a leader in public health.
Nancy Singer, Retired, Naval Reserve
Nancy Singer founded Compliance-Alliance to specialize in the professional development for FDA officials and professionals in the medical products industry. She is on the faculty of George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences. She presently teaches the investigators and compliance officers in FDA District Offices and the reviewers in FDA Staff Colleges. Previously she served as Senior Vice President and Special Counsel for AdvaMed. She began her career as an attorney with the Department of Justice doing litigation for FDA enforcement cases. Subsequently she was a partner at the law firm of Kleinfeld Kaplan and Becker and later served as general counsel for Lansinoh Laboratories. Nancy is a retired Commander in the Naval Reserve.
Nancy Singer founded Compliance-Alliance to specialize in the professional development for FDA officials and professionals in the medical products industry. She is on the faculty of George Washington University School of Medicine and Health Sciences. She presently teaches the investigators and compliance officers in FDA District Offices and the reviewers in FDA Staff Colleges. Previously she served as Senior Vice President and Special Counsel for AdvaMed. She began her career as an attorney with the Department of Justice doing litigation for FDA enforcement cases. Subsequently she was a partner at the law firm of Kleinfeld Kaplan and Becker and later served as general counsel for Lansinoh Laboratories. Nancy is a retired Commander in the Naval Reserve.
Tim Slawinski, Food Safety Modernization Unit Manager, Food and Dairy Division, Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development
Tim Slawinski has 17 years of experience as a food safety professional in the food industry. He joined the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Food and Dairy Division in 2012 to help identify how government and industry can work together to address food safety issues. Tim is on the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA) FSMA Technical Working Group and Produce Safety Implementation Team. He has played a large role in developing Michigan’s feedback to the FSMA proposed rules and implementation plan. Tim has a degree in Microbiology from Michigan State University. Prior to joining MDARD, he worked for several companies in the industry including Cargill and Kellogg’s.
Tim Slawinski has 17 years of experience as a food safety professional in the food industry. He joined the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development in the Food and Dairy Division in 2012 to help identify how government and industry can work together to address food safety issues. Tim is on the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA) FSMA Technical Working Group and Produce Safety Implementation Team. He has played a large role in developing Michigan’s feedback to the FSMA proposed rules and implementation plan. Tim has a degree in Microbiology from Michigan State University. Prior to joining MDARD, he worked for several companies in the industry including Cargill and Kellogg’s.
Shaun Smith, Regional Director, U.S. Department of Agriculture, Food Safety Inspection Service, Office of Investigation, Enforcement, and Audit, Compliance Investigation Division
Shaun Smith is a native of Chicago, Illinois and has been employed with USDA-Food Safety Inspection Service for 25 years. As Regional Director of the Compliance Investigations Division, Shaun manages activites of 36 investigators in 10 states. His investigators document criminal and administrative case files for violations of federal law related to the Federal Meat Inspection Act, Poultry Products Inspection Act, and Egg Products Inspection Act. Shaun has worked in USDA offices located in Dallas, Texas; Houston, Texas and Los Angeles, California.
Shaun served 3 years in the U.S. Army’s 82nd Airborne Division as a Food Safety Auditor. Shaun received his Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration at Jackson State University. Shaun has several food safety certifications from Texas A & M University and Mississippi State University. Shaun completed basic and advance Law Enforcement Training at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center in Artesia, New Mexico.
Shaun Smith is a native of Chicago, Illinois and has been employed with USDA-Food Safety Inspection Service for 25 years. As Regional Director of the Compliance Investigations Division, Shaun manages activites of 36 investigators in 10 states. His investigators document criminal and administrative case files for violations of federal law related to the Federal Meat Inspection Act, Poultry Products Inspection Act, and Egg Products Inspection Act. Shaun has worked in USDA offices located in Dallas, Texas; Houston, Texas and Los Angeles, California.
Shaun served 3 years in the U.S. Army’s 82nd Airborne Division as a Food Safety Auditor. Shaun received his Bachelor of Science Degree in Business Administration at Jackson State University. Shaun has several food safety certifications from Texas A & M University and Mississippi State University. Shaun completed basic and advance Law Enforcement Training at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center in Artesia, New Mexico.
Dan Solis, Director of Import Operations, FDA Imports Office
Mr. Solis started his career with FDA in 1998 and has had positions as Compliance Officer, Supervisor, Headquarters Consumer Safety Officer and Watch Commander. He was a Compliance Officer for 5 years and then spent 2 Years as the Supervisor for Field Operations in the Los Angeles District Imports Branch. Mr. Solis also served as a Watch Commander at the Prior Notice Center, which is now the DFTD (Division of Food Targeting Defense), in 2005. He next took a position with FDA’s Division of Imports Operations, (DIO) which is an FDA HQ position overseeing all FDA Import Offices and Operations, nationally. Mr. Solis was selected to be the Director of the Los Angeles District Imports Operations Branch in November 2009. He now directs one of the largest FDA Import Offices, nationally. Mr. Solis specializes in Imports Operations and gives local, as well as, national training on Imports Investigations.
Mr. Solis started his career with FDA in 1998 and has had positions as Compliance Officer, Supervisor, Headquarters Consumer Safety Officer and Watch Commander. He was a Compliance Officer for 5 years and then spent 2 Years as the Supervisor for Field Operations in the Los Angeles District Imports Branch. Mr. Solis also served as a Watch Commander at the Prior Notice Center, which is now the DFTD (Division of Food Targeting Defense), in 2005. He next took a position with FDA’s Division of Imports Operations, (DIO) which is an FDA HQ position overseeing all FDA Import Offices and Operations, nationally. Mr. Solis was selected to be the Director of the Los Angeles District Imports Operations Branch in November 2009. He now directs one of the largest FDA Import Offices, nationally. Mr. Solis specializes in Imports Operations and gives local, as well as, national training on Imports Investigations.
Denis Stearns, Founding Partner, Marler Clark, LLP, PS
Denis Stearns was a founding partner of the Seattle-based law firm, Marler Clark, LLP, PS, the first law firm in the country to devote itself to the representation of persons injured by unsafe food and drink. He began his involvement in food-related litigation in 1993 as one of the lead defense attorneys handling the cases arising from the historic Jack in the Box E. coli O157:H7 outbreak. Although now again practicing full-time, including at Marler Clark on select cases, as well as a solo-practice focused on consulting with food and agricultural start-up companies, Denis took a break from practice in 2011 to be a full-time law professor at Seattle University School of Law, where he is still an adjunct professor, currently teaching the Food Law & Policy course. He has presented at well over a hundred industry, scientific, and academic conferences in the last decade, and is the author of three peer-reviewed book-chapters, and dozens of published essays and opinion pieces.
Denis Stearns was a founding partner of the Seattle-based law firm, Marler Clark, LLP, PS, the first law firm in the country to devote itself to the representation of persons injured by unsafe food and drink. He began his involvement in food-related litigation in 1993 as one of the lead defense attorneys handling the cases arising from the historic Jack in the Box E. coli O157:H7 outbreak. Although now again practicing full-time, including at Marler Clark on select cases, as well as a solo-practice focused on consulting with food and agricultural start-up companies, Denis took a break from practice in 2011 to be a full-time law professor at Seattle University School of Law, where he is still an adjunct professor, currently teaching the Food Law & Policy course. He has presented at well over a hundred industry, scientific, and academic conferences in the last decade, and is the author of three peer-reviewed book-chapters, and dozens of published essays and opinion pieces.
Steve Steingart, Member on NSF’s Council of Public Health Consultants and member of the Board of Directors of the Pennsylvania Restaurant and Lodging Association (PRLA)
Steve Steingart spent 41 years working at the Allegheny County Health Department in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. His positions included District Environmental Health Administrator, Housing and Community Environment Operations Manager, Food Program Industry Liaison, and culminating as the Division Chief of the Food Safety Program. He was President of the Central Atlantic States Association of Food and Drug Officials in 2004 and served as President of AFDO in 2008. He was the first local regulator to serve as president of AFDO. Steve continues to serve as a member on NSF’s Council of Public Health Consultants. Steve remains a member of the Board of Directors of the Pennsylvania Restaurant and Lodging Association (PRLA). He has received numerous awards from the PRLA culminating in a Lifetime Achievement Award, which was awarded in November 2016.
Steve Steingart spent 41 years working at the Allegheny County Health Department in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. His positions included District Environmental Health Administrator, Housing and Community Environment Operations Manager, Food Program Industry Liaison, and culminating as the Division Chief of the Food Safety Program. He was President of the Central Atlantic States Association of Food and Drug Officials in 2004 and served as President of AFDO in 2008. He was the first local regulator to serve as president of AFDO. Steve continues to serve as a member on NSF’s Council of Public Health Consultants. Steve remains a member of the Board of Directors of the Pennsylvania Restaurant and Lodging Association (PRLA). He has received numerous awards from the PRLA culminating in a Lifetime Achievement Award, which was awarded in November 2016.
Shawn Stevens, Founding Member, Food Industry Counsel LLC,
Shawn Stevens is the founding member of Food Industry Counsel LLC, the only legal consulting firm in the world that represents the food industry exclusively.
As a food industry consultant and lawyer, Mr. Stevens works throughout the U.S. and abroad with food industry clients (including the world’s largest growers, processors, restaurant chains, distributors and grocers) helping them protect their brand by reducing food safety risk, complying with FDA and USDA food safety regulations, managing recalls, and defending high-profile foodborne illness claims.
Mr. Stevens also speaks regularly to audiences on a wide variety of emerging scientific, regulatory and food safety legal trends, authors columns for Meatingplace, The National Provisoner and Food Quality and Safety Magazine, and is quoted regularly by national media publications such as TIME Magazine, the New York Post, and Corporate Counsel. Additional information about Mr. Stevens’ legal and consulting practice can be found at www.foodindustrycounsel.com.
Shawn Stevens is the founding member of Food Industry Counsel LLC, the only legal consulting firm in the world that represents the food industry exclusively.
As a food industry consultant and lawyer, Mr. Stevens works throughout the U.S. and abroad with food industry clients (including the world’s largest growers, processors, restaurant chains, distributors and grocers) helping them protect their brand by reducing food safety risk, complying with FDA and USDA food safety regulations, managing recalls, and defending high-profile foodborne illness claims.
Mr. Stevens also speaks regularly to audiences on a wide variety of emerging scientific, regulatory and food safety legal trends, authors columns for Meatingplace, The National Provisoner and Food Quality and Safety Magazine, and is quoted regularly by national media publications such as TIME Magazine, the New York Post, and Corporate Counsel. Additional information about Mr. Stevens’ legal and consulting practice can be found at www.foodindustrycounsel.com.
Stephen D Stich, Director, New York Department of Agriculture & Markets
Steve started his career with the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets, Division of Food Safety and Inspection in 1987 as a Food Inspector. In 1992 Steve was promoted to a supervisory position in Albany where he progressed through the ranks and was named Director in 2010.
Steve is a current member of several food associations, including the Association of Food and Drug Officials where he is a Past President. Steve also participates in several multi-state and federal food safety working groups and alliances.
Steve started his career with the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets, Division of Food Safety and Inspection in 1987 as a Food Inspector. In 1992 Steve was promoted to a supervisory position in Albany where he progressed through the ranks and was named Director in 2010.
Steve is a current member of several food associations, including the Association of Food and Drug Officials where he is a Past President. Steve also participates in several multi-state and federal food safety working groups and alliances.
Dr. Don Stoeckel, Midwest Regional Extension Associate, Produce Safety Alliance
Dr. Don Stoeckel joined the Produce Safety Alliance in 2015 to serve as the Midwest Regional Extension Associate and he is based in Columbus, Ohio. Don is a Produce Safety Alliance trainer and has past experience as a research scientist at the US Geological Survey and Battelle Memorial Institute. He has authored many peer-reviewed research articles as well as extension publications, government reports, review articles, and book chapters. His speaking and training topics include water quality monitoring methods and data interpretation, risk mitigation, and Good Agricultural Practices.
Dr. Don Stoeckel joined the Produce Safety Alliance in 2015 to serve as the Midwest Regional Extension Associate and he is based in Columbus, Ohio. Don is a Produce Safety Alliance trainer and has past experience as a research scientist at the US Geological Survey and Battelle Memorial Institute. He has authored many peer-reviewed research articles as well as extension publications, government reports, review articles, and book chapters. His speaking and training topics include water quality monitoring methods and data interpretation, risk mitigation, and Good Agricultural Practices.
Renita Stroupe, Health Educator, DeKalb County Board of Health—Georgia Department of Public Health
Renita Stroupe is the Health Educator for the DeKalb County Board of Health—Georgia Department of Public Health. She has served as the Health Educator for three years and served as an Environmental Health Specialist for five years prior to her current position. Renita has a Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience and Behavioral Biology from Emory University. She has been a Registered Environmental Health Specialist since 2014, and a Certified Pool/Spa Inspector, Certified Food Safety Instructor and Proctor (ServSafe and Prometrics), and Certified in Mosquito Larval Identification.
In her current position, Renita seeks to increase the agency’s outreach within the local community, especially to those where English is a second language. She has created and translated educational guides and flyers for distribution and is currently working with other community organizations to provide training information in other languages, including Farsi, Arabic, and Chinese. Renita is a member of Georgia Environmental Health Association and Georgia Board of Registered Environmental Health Professionals (GBREHP). She is a State of Georgia Standardized and Re-Standardized Food Inspector and is currently becoming a member of the Association of Food and Drug Officials of the Southern States (AFDOSS). She is involved in DeKalb County Board of Health Wellness Committee to promote healthy changes at work to improve the health of employees as well as the community.
Renita’s current project is to find more ways to incorporate food safety into culinary arts and engage in making food safety a primary focus instead of secondary to food quality within establishments of all cultural backgrounds. She is working with academic organizations, food manufacturers, and other regulators to find a common, integrated approach to talking about food safety and promote variety of foods that people enjoy and can continue to enjoy safely. Renita enjoys working with the youth in community organizations and in her church, because they have a fresh approach to life, yearn to know more, and can teach us without even trying. Mentor: Charlene Bruce
Renita Stroupe is the Health Educator for the DeKalb County Board of Health—Georgia Department of Public Health. She has served as the Health Educator for three years and served as an Environmental Health Specialist for five years prior to her current position. Renita has a Bachelor of Science in Neuroscience and Behavioral Biology from Emory University. She has been a Registered Environmental Health Specialist since 2014, and a Certified Pool/Spa Inspector, Certified Food Safety Instructor and Proctor (ServSafe and Prometrics), and Certified in Mosquito Larval Identification.
In her current position, Renita seeks to increase the agency’s outreach within the local community, especially to those where English is a second language. She has created and translated educational guides and flyers for distribution and is currently working with other community organizations to provide training information in other languages, including Farsi, Arabic, and Chinese. Renita is a member of Georgia Environmental Health Association and Georgia Board of Registered Environmental Health Professionals (GBREHP). She is a State of Georgia Standardized and Re-Standardized Food Inspector and is currently becoming a member of the Association of Food and Drug Officials of the Southern States (AFDOSS). She is involved in DeKalb County Board of Health Wellness Committee to promote healthy changes at work to improve the health of employees as well as the community.
Renita’s current project is to find more ways to incorporate food safety into culinary arts and engage in making food safety a primary focus instead of secondary to food quality within establishments of all cultural backgrounds. She is working with academic organizations, food manufacturers, and other regulators to find a common, integrated approach to talking about food safety and promote variety of foods that people enjoy and can continue to enjoy safely. Renita enjoys working with the youth in community organizations and in her church, because they have a fresh approach to life, yearn to know more, and can teach us without even trying. Mentor: Charlene Bruce
Dr. Bill Teeter, Retired Executive Director, Ontario Operations, Canadian Food Inspection Agency
Dr. Teeter is a veterinarian and a graduate of the University of Guelph, 1980. After several year in private veterinary practice in Toronto, he joined Agriculture and Agrifood Canada in 1983 and worked in the Meat Hygiene and Animal Health Programs in Winnipeg, Manitoba from 1983-87. In 1987 he moved to Ottawa and assumed the position of Associate Director, National Training from 1987 until 1995. From 1995 to 1998 he was the Director of Human Resource Operations for the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA). In 1999 he was the acting Vice President Human Resources for CFIA. From the fall of 1999 until he retired from CFIA in August 2013 he was the Executive Director for the Ontario Operations Area in Guelph, Ontario. During that time he was responsible for the day to day operational delivery of all sixteen CFIA programs in the province of Ontario including the management of a staff of approximately 1000 CFIA employees. In 2011 he was Acting Vice President of Business Transformation for CFIA. Since 2013 he has been retired, however he presently serves part time as a senior advisor to the Chief Veterinary Officer of Canada.
Dr. Teeter is a veterinarian and a graduate of the University of Guelph, 1980. After several year in private veterinary practice in Toronto, he joined Agriculture and Agrifood Canada in 1983 and worked in the Meat Hygiene and Animal Health Programs in Winnipeg, Manitoba from 1983-87. In 1987 he moved to Ottawa and assumed the position of Associate Director, National Training from 1987 until 1995. From 1995 to 1998 he was the Director of Human Resource Operations for the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA). In 1999 he was the acting Vice President Human Resources for CFIA. From the fall of 1999 until he retired from CFIA in August 2013 he was the Executive Director for the Ontario Operations Area in Guelph, Ontario. During that time he was responsible for the day to day operational delivery of all sixteen CFIA programs in the province of Ontario including the management of a staff of approximately 1000 CFIA employees. In 2011 he was Acting Vice President of Business Transformation for CFIA. Since 2013 he has been retired, however he presently serves part time as a senior advisor to the Chief Veterinary Officer of Canada.
Armin Torres, Principal, Qualified Data Systems Inc.
Mr. Torres is a Principal at Qualified Data Systems Inc. (QDS) headquartered in Coral Gables Florida. QDS is a global information technology consultancy focused on the needs of the Life Science industry.
Mr. Torres has over twenty years of international experience in Engineering, Quality Management, and Software Quality with an emphasis in Information Systems within regulated environments. He has extensive experience in software development, software engineering, and software quality/reliability.
Prior to joining QDS, Mr. Torres was a Manager at BearingPoint (formerly KPMG Consulting) where he lead consulting teams on Life Science projects at fortune 500 companies. Mr. Torres has worked extensively with international clients in the Asian, Pacific Rim, European Union, and Latin American markets.
Today, Mr. Torres spends his time assisting customers in the areas of Data Science, Digital Transformation, Analytics, Verification & Validation, Risk and Cyber Security Engineering.
Mr. Torres is a Principal at Qualified Data Systems Inc. (QDS) headquartered in Coral Gables Florida. QDS is a global information technology consultancy focused on the needs of the Life Science industry.
Mr. Torres has over twenty years of international experience in Engineering, Quality Management, and Software Quality with an emphasis in Information Systems within regulated environments. He has extensive experience in software development, software engineering, and software quality/reliability.
Prior to joining QDS, Mr. Torres was a Manager at BearingPoint (formerly KPMG Consulting) where he lead consulting teams on Life Science projects at fortune 500 companies. Mr. Torres has worked extensively with international clients in the Asian, Pacific Rim, European Union, and Latin American markets.
Today, Mr. Torres spends his time assisting customers in the areas of Data Science, Digital Transformation, Analytics, Verification & Validation, Risk and Cyber Security Engineering.
Melissa Vaccaro, MS, CHO, CP-FS, Vice President of Consulting, PTI Consulting Group, a Division of Paster Training, Inc
Melissa Vaccaro has a Master of Science degree in Biology and Bachelor of Science in Biology and Environmental Education, both from Shippensburg University. Melissa is the Vice President of Consulting for PTI Consulting Group, a Division of Paster Training, Inc. PTI Consulting Group works with top food and alcohol retailers, manufacturers, processors, and operators. As a core member of the management team, Melissa leads, develops, and oversees the PTI Consulting Group throughout the US, as well as provides numerous public health-related presentations and training. Melissa is co-author of the SURE™ HACCP book series. Before joining the PTI team, Melissa was with the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture Bureau of Food Safety and Laboratory Services for nearly 25 years, where she dedicated her career to the service of safe food and the prevention of foodborne illness.
Melissa Vaccaro has a Master of Science degree in Biology and Bachelor of Science in Biology and Environmental Education, both from Shippensburg University. Melissa is the Vice President of Consulting for PTI Consulting Group, a Division of Paster Training, Inc. PTI Consulting Group works with top food and alcohol retailers, manufacturers, processors, and operators. As a core member of the management team, Melissa leads, develops, and oversees the PTI Consulting Group throughout the US, as well as provides numerous public health-related presentations and training. Melissa is co-author of the SURE™ HACCP book series. Before joining the PTI team, Melissa was with the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture Bureau of Food Safety and Laboratory Services for nearly 25 years, where she dedicated her career to the service of safe food and the prevention of foodborne illness.
Thuy Vu, Owner, Thuy Vu Consulting, LLC
Thuy Vu served as the lead foodborne illness, outbreak and marijuana investigator for Denver Environmental Health Public Health Inspections Division from 2010-2015. She spearheaded inspections, investigations and enforcement of the burgeoning marijuana industry, implementing the first five food safety recalls of marijuana infused products and leading the investigation for the first foodborne illness outbreak of a legalized marijuana operation. She collaborated with Denver Fire Department, Denver Public Health, Denver Police Department Vice and Drug Bureau, and the Colorado Department of Revenue Marijuana Enforcement Division. Following her time with the City, she worked in the marijuana industry for two years where she oversaw production and compliance of marijuana extractions, concentrates, edibles and topicals. Her consulting firm is committed to training and educating regulatory agencies on the food safety and life safety concerns of marijuana and industrial hemp operations, in efforts to promote public health and public safety.
Thuy Vu served as the lead foodborne illness, outbreak and marijuana investigator for Denver Environmental Health Public Health Inspections Division from 2010-2015. She spearheaded inspections, investigations and enforcement of the burgeoning marijuana industry, implementing the first five food safety recalls of marijuana infused products and leading the investigation for the first foodborne illness outbreak of a legalized marijuana operation. She collaborated with Denver Fire Department, Denver Public Health, Denver Police Department Vice and Drug Bureau, and the Colorado Department of Revenue Marijuana Enforcement Division. Following her time with the City, she worked in the marijuana industry for two years where she oversaw production and compliance of marijuana extractions, concentrates, edibles and topicals. Her consulting firm is committed to training and educating regulatory agencies on the food safety and life safety concerns of marijuana and industrial hemp operations, in efforts to promote public health and public safety.
Roberta F. Wagner, Assistant Administrator, Office of Policy and Program Development (OPPD) in the Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)
Roberta F. Wagner was named the Assistant Administrator for the Office of Policy and Program Development (OPPD) in the Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) in March 2017. She joined USDA FSIS as the Deputy Assistant Administrator for the Office of Field Operations (OFO) at USDA in January of 2016. Prior to this, she served in the Office of Regulatory Affairs (ORA) and the Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition (CSFAN) at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for over 28 years.
Roberta began her regulatory career at the FDA in the ORA’s Baltimore District Office in 1987, where she worked for nearly 20 years; first as an analytical chemist, specializing in pesticide and industrial chemical analyses and applied research and then as Director of the Baltimore District’s Investigations and Compliance branches. Roberta joined CFSAN in 2006 as the Director of the Division of Communication and Education. She served in this capacity for two years prior to assuming leadership positions in CFSAN’s Office of Compliance (OC). Prior to re-joining CFSAN in February 2013 as the director of the OC, Roberta held the position of Assistant Commissioner for Operations in ORA for two years.In this capacity, she provided leadership to ORA's field force, including investigators, compliance officers, laboratory staff, and the ORA headquarters components that supported and interfaced with the field organization. Roberta later served as CFSAN Deputy Director for Regulatory Affairs and Associate Director for FSMA Operations.
In Roberta’s first role at USDA's FSIS as the Deputy Assistant in OFO, she helped oversee inspection and animal welfare activities conducted every day by nearly 7,800 employees in approximately 6,000 meat, poultry, processed egg, and import facilities. More specifically, she assured the consistent and standardized application of food safety policies by the field employees in the 10 district offices under their purview and places a particular emphasis on providing field inspectors with adequate training so that they can correctly interpret the laws that they are charged with implementing. Now, as the Assistant Administrator in OPPD she, in part, directs the development and makes recommendations concerning all domestic and international policy for FSIS.
Roberta holds a B.S. in Biological Science with a minor in Environmental Science from Hiram College. She also holds a M.S. in Biochemistry from Bowling Green State University. Following graduate school, she was employed briefly at Johns Hopkins Hospital as a research assistant in the Oncology Department before joining the FDA.
Roberta F. Wagner was named the Assistant Administrator for the Office of Policy and Program Development (OPPD) in the Food Safety and Inspection Service (FSIS) at the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) in March 2017. She joined USDA FSIS as the Deputy Assistant Administrator for the Office of Field Operations (OFO) at USDA in January of 2016. Prior to this, she served in the Office of Regulatory Affairs (ORA) and the Center for Food Safety and Applied Nutrition (CSFAN) at the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for over 28 years.
Roberta began her regulatory career at the FDA in the ORA’s Baltimore District Office in 1987, where she worked for nearly 20 years; first as an analytical chemist, specializing in pesticide and industrial chemical analyses and applied research and then as Director of the Baltimore District’s Investigations and Compliance branches. Roberta joined CFSAN in 2006 as the Director of the Division of Communication and Education. She served in this capacity for two years prior to assuming leadership positions in CFSAN’s Office of Compliance (OC). Prior to re-joining CFSAN in February 2013 as the director of the OC, Roberta held the position of Assistant Commissioner for Operations in ORA for two years.In this capacity, she provided leadership to ORA's field force, including investigators, compliance officers, laboratory staff, and the ORA headquarters components that supported and interfaced with the field organization. Roberta later served as CFSAN Deputy Director for Regulatory Affairs and Associate Director for FSMA Operations.
In Roberta’s first role at USDA's FSIS as the Deputy Assistant in OFO, she helped oversee inspection and animal welfare activities conducted every day by nearly 7,800 employees in approximately 6,000 meat, poultry, processed egg, and import facilities. More specifically, she assured the consistent and standardized application of food safety policies by the field employees in the 10 district offices under their purview and places a particular emphasis on providing field inspectors with adequate training so that they can correctly interpret the laws that they are charged with implementing. Now, as the Assistant Administrator in OPPD she, in part, directs the development and makes recommendations concerning all domestic and international policy for FSIS.
Roberta holds a B.S. in Biological Science with a minor in Environmental Science from Hiram College. She also holds a M.S. in Biochemistry from Bowling Green State University. Following graduate school, she was employed briefly at Johns Hopkins Hospital as a research assistant in the Oncology Department before joining the FDA.
Sandra Walker, Program Manager, MDARD’s Food
Sandra Walker earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Animal Science from The Ohio State University, specializing in meat science. She served as a meat commodity grader for the United States Department of Agriculture, Agriculture Marketing Service for 7 years before working for the Michigan Department of Public Health in the virology laboratory. She joined the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, Food and Dairy Division as a field inspector, plan review specialist, food service specialist and later a regional food supervisor. Sandra is currently employed as MDARD’s Food Program Manager and as a long standing AFDO member, serves on the food committee.
Sandra Walker earned her Bachelor of Science degree in Animal Science from The Ohio State University, specializing in meat science. She served as a meat commodity grader for the United States Department of Agriculture, Agriculture Marketing Service for 7 years before working for the Michigan Department of Public Health in the virology laboratory. She joined the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, Food and Dairy Division as a field inspector, plan review specialist, food service specialist and later a regional food supervisor. Sandra is currently employed as MDARD’s Food Program Manager and as a long standing AFDO member, serves on the food committee.
Donna Wanucha, Retail Food Specialist, US Food and Drug Administration
After serving in the US Army Donna received her BS in Microbiology from The Ohio State University. She worked on her Masters Program in Microbiology at UNC Charlotte where she published her work on Vibrio vulnificus.
She has worked in private industry in Food and Pharmaceutical quality assurance settings.
She began her Public Health career with the Mecklenburg County Division of Environmental Health, Food and Lodging Program and continued with Forsyth County Environmental Health in Winston-Salem, NC. She then worked for the North Carolina Division of Environmental Health as a Regional Environmental Health Specialist with Dairy and Food Protection Branch.
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Since 2005 she has worked for the US Food and Drug Administration as a Retail Food Specialist in State Cooperative Programs in the Southeast Region of USFDA. Donna supports state and local regulatory food programs in North Carolina and South Carolina through promotion and interpretation of FDA Food Code and promotion of the National Retail Food Program Standards. She is also a resource for the food industry in regard to best food safety practices and Food Code interpretation.
Donna is a Registered Environmental Health Specialist with the NC State Board of Environmental Health Specialist Examiners and is also a Registered Environmental Health Specialist with NEHA (National Environmental Health Association)
After serving in the US Army Donna received her BS in Microbiology from The Ohio State University. She worked on her Masters Program in Microbiology at UNC Charlotte where she published her work on Vibrio vulnificus.
She has worked in private industry in Food and Pharmaceutical quality assurance settings.
She began her Public Health career with the Mecklenburg County Division of Environmental Health, Food and Lodging Program and continued with Forsyth County Environmental Health in Winston-Salem, NC. She then worked for the North Carolina Division of Environmental Health as a Regional Environmental Health Specialist with Dairy and Food Protection Branch.
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Since 2005 she has worked for the US Food and Drug Administration as a Retail Food Specialist in State Cooperative Programs in the Southeast Region of USFDA. Donna supports state and local regulatory food programs in North Carolina and South Carolina through promotion and interpretation of FDA Food Code and promotion of the National Retail Food Program Standards. She is also a resource for the food industry in regard to best food safety practices and Food Code interpretation.
Donna is a Registered Environmental Health Specialist with the NC State Board of Environmental Health Specialist Examiners and is also a Registered Environmental Health Specialist with NEHA (National Environmental Health Association)
Lisa Weddig, Vice President, Regulatory and Technical Affairs, National Fisheries Institute
Lisa Weddig is the Vice President of Regulatory and Technical Affairs for the National Fisheries Institute in McLean, Virginia. NFI is the leading trade association in the United States advocating for the seafood community, representing the seafood commerce chain from “water to table.” Joining NFI in 2007, she serves as the primary liaison for food regulatory issues and food safety developments for the association members as well as the Secretary for NFI’s Better Seafood Board, an organization formed to address seafood fraud. She earned a B.S. in Food Science from Virginia Tech in Blacksburg, Virginia and a M.S. in Nutrition Education from Hood College in Frederick, Maryland. Ms. Weddig serves on the Executive Committee, Steering Committee and Editorial Committee of the Seafood HACCP Alliance and has accompanied the U.S. Codex Delegation to the Codex Committees on Fish and Fisheries Products and Food Hygiene as an industry advisor.
Lisa Weddig is the Vice President of Regulatory and Technical Affairs for the National Fisheries Institute in McLean, Virginia. NFI is the leading trade association in the United States advocating for the seafood community, representing the seafood commerce chain from “water to table.” Joining NFI in 2007, she serves as the primary liaison for food regulatory issues and food safety developments for the association members as well as the Secretary for NFI’s Better Seafood Board, an organization formed to address seafood fraud. She earned a B.S. in Food Science from Virginia Tech in Blacksburg, Virginia and a M.S. in Nutrition Education from Hood College in Frederick, Maryland. Ms. Weddig serves on the Executive Committee, Steering Committee and Editorial Committee of the Seafood HACCP Alliance and has accompanied the U.S. Codex Delegation to the Codex Committees on Fish and Fisheries Products and Food Hygiene as an industry advisor.
Keith Wegner, Laboratory Services Section Chief, Colorado Department of Agriculture
Keith Wegner has served as the Laboratory Services Section Chief with the Colorado Department of Agriculture since 2007. In this capacity, Keith manages the Biochemistry Laboratory for the Inspection & Consumer Services Division. The Biochemistry Laboratory has been accredited to ISO 17025 since 2009 and includes both Chemical and Biological Scopes of Testing. The laboratory conducts regulatory testing of animal feeds, fertilizers and composts; microbiological testing of food commodities; pesticide residues in marijuana, groundwater, surface water, soil and vegetation; and THC content in industrial hemp. The laboratory also conducts homogeneity testing for Proficiency Samples in support of the Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment’s Marijuana Laboratory Inspection Program.
Keith holds an MS degree in Technical Communication from the University of Colorado and BA degrees in Chemistry and Philosophy from Wittenberg University. He is a Registered Environmental Manager, Certified Quality Auditor, and a Certified Quality Engineer. He is a senior member of the American Society for Quality, Vice-chair of the Magruder Proficiency Sample Testing Program, and serves on the Association of American Plant Food Control Officials and Feed Control Officials Laboratory Services committees.
Keith Wegner has served as the Laboratory Services Section Chief with the Colorado Department of Agriculture since 2007. In this capacity, Keith manages the Biochemistry Laboratory for the Inspection & Consumer Services Division. The Biochemistry Laboratory has been accredited to ISO 17025 since 2009 and includes both Chemical and Biological Scopes of Testing. The laboratory conducts regulatory testing of animal feeds, fertilizers and composts; microbiological testing of food commodities; pesticide residues in marijuana, groundwater, surface water, soil and vegetation; and THC content in industrial hemp. The laboratory also conducts homogeneity testing for Proficiency Samples in support of the Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment’s Marijuana Laboratory Inspection Program.
Keith holds an MS degree in Technical Communication from the University of Colorado and BA degrees in Chemistry and Philosophy from Wittenberg University. He is a Registered Environmental Manager, Certified Quality Auditor, and a Certified Quality Engineer. He is a senior member of the American Society for Quality, Vice-chair of the Magruder Proficiency Sample Testing Program, and serves on the Association of American Plant Food Control Officials and Feed Control Officials Laboratory Services committees.
JoAnn Xiong-Mercado, Food Safety Education & Outreach Specialist, Marion County Public Health Department (MCPHD)
JoAnn Xiong-Mercado is the Food Safety Education & Outreach Specialist with the Marion County Public Health Department (MCPHD) where she has worked for the last six years. In 2007, JoAnn interned with Columbus Public Health in Columbus, Ohio, working in each of the environmental health departments throughout her internship. In 2008, JoAnn earned her Bachelor of Science in Public Health from Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, and then she earned an Associate of Science in Culinology from Ivy Tech Community College, in 2014.
In May 2011, JoAnn began working at MCPHD, in Mosquito Control. Later, in September 2011, she transferred to the Food & Consumer Safety Department as an Environmental Health Specialist. Finally, in February 2017, JoAnn was promoted to her current role as the Food Safety Education & Outreach Specialist. In this role, JoAnn provides food safety classes for the public and internal training for new hires. Additionally, she performs retail food inspections and works toward bringing about standardization. JoAnn is also an adjunct instructor of Sanitation for Ivy Tech's Culinary Program, the Vice President of the Indiana Environmental Health Association, Education Chair for the American Culinary Federation, Greater Indianapolis Chapter, and a kitchen volunteer at Second Helpings, a food rescue organization. Mentor: Charlene Bruce
JoAnn Xiong-Mercado is the Food Safety Education & Outreach Specialist with the Marion County Public Health Department (MCPHD) where she has worked for the last six years. In 2007, JoAnn interned with Columbus Public Health in Columbus, Ohio, working in each of the environmental health departments throughout her internship. In 2008, JoAnn earned her Bachelor of Science in Public Health from Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis, and then she earned an Associate of Science in Culinology from Ivy Tech Community College, in 2014.
In May 2011, JoAnn began working at MCPHD, in Mosquito Control. Later, in September 2011, she transferred to the Food & Consumer Safety Department as an Environmental Health Specialist. Finally, in February 2017, JoAnn was promoted to her current role as the Food Safety Education & Outreach Specialist. In this role, JoAnn provides food safety classes for the public and internal training for new hires. Additionally, she performs retail food inspections and works toward bringing about standardization. JoAnn is also an adjunct instructor of Sanitation for Ivy Tech's Culinary Program, the Vice President of the Indiana Environmental Health Association, Education Chair for the American Culinary Federation, Greater Indianapolis Chapter, and a kitchen volunteer at Second Helpings, a food rescue organization. Mentor: Charlene Bruce