Washington, D.C. (December 6, 2016) — The North American Meat Institute (NAMI) announced that the 2016 Meat Industry Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony and Dinner will take place January 31, 2017, at the Georgia Aquarium in Atlanta, Georgia, as part of the schedule of events at the 2017 International Production and Processing Expo (IPPE). This annual event honors individuals whose vision, skill and dedication have shaped and sustained the meat and poultry industry as the leading sector of North American food production.
This year’s inductees include Dr. Joe Cordray, professor and extension meat specialist, Iowa State University; Chuck Hendryx, vice president, meat, H-E-B Grocery Company; Sam Kane (deceased), founder, Sam Kane Beef Processors; C. Larry Pope, president and chief executive officer, Smithfield Foods; Dr. Joe Sebranek, professor, Iowa State University; Sam Stein (deceased), founder and chairman, Chef’s Pantry and Sam Stein Associates; and Clayton Yeutter, former U.S. secretary of agriculture.
“The incoming Hall of Fame Class of 2016 is a reflection of the talented, innovative and dedicated leaders who have worked tirelessly to ensure the continued strength and growth of the meat and poultry industry,” said NAMI President and CEO Barry Carpenter. “These seven individuals have set the highest standards of service, professionalism and ethics, and their work is an example that other industry professionals should seek to emulate.”
To qualify for nomination to the Hall of Fame, candidates must have contributed significant innovation, achieved notable business success or otherwise positively impacted their organization, institution or larger industry segment. In addition, the nominees chosen for induction must have undertaken noteworthy community service or philanthropy during their careers and upon retirement.