IDDBA lauds emerging and established bakery leaders

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IDDBA lauds emerging and established bakery leaders

3 Jun 2026

Annie Hollon

Annie Hollon is a journalist, copywriter and social media strategist from the Dallas, Texas area. She found a love for magazine writing during her time at the University of Alabama where she graduated with a Bachelor of Arts, double majoring in public relations and English. Beyond writing, you can find her expanding her library, attempting to teach herself the guitar and trying new hobbies.

MADISON, WI — This year’s honorees for the International Dairy Deli Bakery Association (IDDBA)’s Champions of Change program have been unveiled. From early-stage to veteran members, recipients are celebrated for their impact on the industry, their companies and their communities.

Among the cohort of 2026 award recipients, the commercial baking industry is well-represented across the Emerging Champion and Legendary Champion categories. The former elevates early-career professionals, while the latter celebrates senior-level leaders (VP or higher) for their strategic direction and innovation.

The 2026 Emerging Champions recipients include Philip Eberly, R&D technologist for the J.M. Smucker Co.; Puratos‘ Heather Gilroy and Maya Hazanov, director of national accounts and director of UHT and operational excellence, respectively; Megan Joyce, regional sales manager of David’s Cookies; Marissa Mazukelli, national account manager at Gonnella Baking Co.

UNFI boasts three awardees in this category: Christine “Chris” Crace, bakery and deli specialist; Mary Lynn “Mimi” McHugh-Blain, bakery and deli specialist; and Teresa Mohn, senior account manager, bakery/deli.

In the Legendary Champion category, Jim Sposito, senior application specialist manager of Puratos, will be among those honored.

Additionally, IDDBA will honor Anne Marie Cadrin Garrad, director, North America food of Circle K, with the Legacy of Excellence lifetime achievement award. This distinction is given to a Legendary Champion who best exemplifies longevity and leadership and celebrates her work in modernizing and operating the c-store’s bakery and foodservice program, collaboration across teams and her people-first mindset.

All 32 award recipients will be celebrated during IDDBA’s annual convention, taking place June 7-9 in Orlando, FL.

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