Tour
A Visit to Shank’s Extracts
Capturing flavor from nature, Shank’s Extracts is a leading processor of vanilla and botanical extracts. Shank’s sourcing team finds ingredients from all corners of the globe which enable product developers to create natural and organic flavored products. Working closely with confectioners, Shank’s R&D staff has developed a range of oil-soluble vanilla and flavors which compliment chocolate and compound coatings. As a private-label manufacturer from some of the leading grocers in North America, Shank’s can pack liquids in bottles and pouches for almost any need. Shank’s can also deliver colors for retail and industrial purposes. Since 1899, Shank’s has operated out of Lancaster, PA, and in SQF, Kosher and Organic Certified.
Breakfast
Welcome, Students
Students participating in the 2015 program were welcomed by Student Outreach Program Chair Mark Freeman, Shank’s Extracts, as well as mentors representing numerous confectionery companies. Students had the opportunity to meet with their mentors as well as the other students participating in the program while enjoying breakfast and learning about events for the week ahead.
Dinner
Annie Bailey’s Dinner Night
A new feature for 2015, students were treated to dinner at Annie Bailey’s Monday night. They enjoyed Irish cuisine and lots of laughs during the “games” portion of the evening. This evening gave students and mentors time to unwind and get to know one another. Sweet treats were graciously donated by Blommer Chocolate and Asher’s Chocolates for the evening’s prizes and favors.
Luncheon
An “Amazing” Guest for Lunch
Special guest speaker Amy DeJong from the University of Wisconsin and winner (with teammate Maya Warren) of the CBS show The Amazing Race gave a fun and inspiring talk about her experience on the show. Amy was a participant in the 2011 and 2012 PMCA Student Outreach Program and shared her excitement for the confectionery industry.
Farewell Gathering
Thank You and Farewell!
The Student Outreach Program concluded with a pizza party send-off for students and mentors. Students discussed their time at the the conference and shared their thoughts on the program. Student Outreach Chair Mark Freeman, Shank’s Extracts thanked all the students who participated and awarded each with a certificate of completion. As is tradition, students did not leave empty-handed. Besides receiving a PMCA Basics and Beyond or history book, special student-inspired gifts were available to take, as well as an additional PMCA candy bag.