Sally Henry Memorial Award Winner—2008
Susanne Stark
by Michele McAdoo
The Sally Henry Award is presented in memory of Sally Henry, a memorable Home Economist who had a great enthusiasm for life, and many diverse interests beyond her professional commitments. This year’s worthy recipient is Susanne Stark.
Susanne graduated from the University of British Colombia in 1986 with a B.Sc. in Food and Nutrition. Susanne worked as a caterer for several years before joining Kraft over 15 years ago. At Kraft she has been responsible for a wide variety of brands as well as recipes, packaging, product development, food demonstrations, recipe writing, magazine editing and food styling.
Presently, Susanne manages the execution of What’s Cooking/Food & Family Magazine. Over six million magazines are produced five times a year. Her dedication to Kraft and the kitchens team is evident through the success of the magazine, dedication of her team and her awards such as the Kraft ABCD Award (Above and Beyond the Call of Duty).
Susanne is known in the food industry as one of the Kraft Kitchen Experts (KKE’s). She has participated in numerous media projects such as appearing on TV and radio. Susanne is an accomplished food demonstrator. Last fall Susanne traveled to four US states to present Kraft recipes to audiences with over 1000 people in attendance.
Susanne is hard working, organized, efficient, involved, reliable, resourceful and practical - the embodiment of a Home Economist.
Susanne is always very approachable and willing to share her knowledge. She provides support and guidance to freelance consultants and students. Last year at the OHEIB AGM she approached the Guelph Student Campus Rep, Jessica Donaldson, with a summer part-time job opportunity to work in the Kraft Kitchens. Susanne worked closely with Jessica to give her guidance in starting her career in the food industry.
Outside of Susanne’s professional life, she has a very busy and active family life. Her two daughters, Lauren and Libby, participate in several after school programs. Susanne keeps herself involved in all family projects. She is active in both of their schools; she continuously volunteers time either conducting cooking and nutrition sessions, organizing parent/teacher potlucks or most recently making costumes for Lauren’s school’s rendition of Wizard of Oz. She knows more about Little Munchkins outfits than she cares too.
Susanne is a dedicated member of her community church; she regularly helps with arranging church lunches & social teas as well as summer church picnics.
While doing all of the above, Susanne realizes the importance of taking care of herself. She joined the Running Room 2 years ago to learn how to speed walk and she’s up every morning at 6 am (rain, shine, snow and ice) to walk. She is also an avid downhill skier and has taken ski lessons with former downhill ski Olympic competitors at Panorama Ski Resort.
Susanne is an accomplished pianist, she completed grade 10 (the highest level) with the Royal Conservatory of Music. She is also an avid reader and of course, cook and baker.
The association is pleased to welcome Susanne into the Sally Henry Alumni.