The Alliance to Stop Foodborne Illness has announced its list of the Top 40 Food Safety Professionals Under 40, spotlighting young leaders making significant contributions to the field of food safety. Among this year’s honorees are PFSE board members Ashley Eisenbeiser of FMI – The Food Industry Association and H. Lester Schonberger, Ph.D. of Virginia Tech/Virginia Cooperative Extension.
Launched in 2023, this annual recognition celebrates rising stars who are transforming the landscape of food safety and leaving an enduring impact on the industry, academia, and regulatory bodies. The honorees represent a diverse range of professionals from various sectors, including nonprofit, industry, regulatory agencies, journalism, independent consulting, and academia, all united by their dedication to enhancing food safety.
Ashley Eisenbeiser serves as senior director of food and product safety programs at FMI – The Food Industry Association. She graduated from Virginia Tech with a B.S. in food science and technology, and earned a master’s degree in food science and technology from Virginia Tech. Ashley was elected as vice chair of the PFSE Board of Directors in October 2024 and has served on the board since 2020.
H. Lester Schonberger is an Associate Extension Specialist at Virginia Tech/Virginia Cooperative Extension. He earned a B.S. and Ph.D. in food science and technology from Virginia Tech. Lester’s work centers on increasing everyone’s ability to access and prepare safe, quality food. He does this by contributing to the Extension component of Virginia Tech’s land-grant mission by leading food safety education programs.
The Alliance’s initiative to honor top food safety professionals younger than 40 aligns with its mission to promote safer food practices and reduce the incidence of foodborne illnesses. When nominating candidates, emphasis is placed on their accomplishments, leadership qualities, and their potential to inspire others and drive positive change within the food safety community.
As the food safety landscape continues to evolve, these young professionals, including Ashley and Lester, are at the forefront of safeguarding public health and ensuring the safety of the global food supply.
View all of the Top 40 Food Safety Professionals Under 40 on the Alliance to Stop Foodborne Illness’ website.
