Howard Smith, president of Virginia Dare, was honored with the Flavor & Extract Manufacturers Association of the United States (FEMA)’s 2024 Lifetime Achievement Award.

As the national association of the U.S. flavor industry, FEMA awards this honor annually to individuals who have demonstrated leadership and service to FEMA and the flavor industry at large over the course of their career. Specifically, FEMA’s Board of Governors identifies professionals who are committed to FEMA’s mission to promote the safe use of flavors and who serve as role models for others in the industry.

Smith began his career in flavor nearly 40 years ago and has been serving as fourth-generation president of Virginia Dare since 2000. During his career, Smith has advanced the industry through his service with FEMA and the International Organization of the Flavor Industry (IOFI). He served on the FEMA Board of Governors from 2002 – 2014 and as president from 2008 – 2009, as well as president of IOFI from 2016 – 2018. Smith is currently acting as the FEMA representative to the IOFI Board.

"I'm humbled and honored by FEMA's recognition of Virginia Dare's impact on the flavor industry," Smith said. "We so greatly appreciate FEMA's efforts to advance the safe and responsible use of flavorings, and we are committed to always upholding this mission in all we do."