Samantha McKenna, Tau 2010
What does Alpha Chi Sigma mean to you?
To me, Alpha Chi Sigma is a lifelong brotherhood and an organization that has helped me grow personally and professionally by serving the needs I've had throughout my collegiate and professional life. From providing me with a group of friends and contacts when I moved across the country for graduate school, to a professional network of chemists in a variety of fields, I've always been able to count on Alpha Chi Sigma when I wanted help or advice.
Why do you stay active in Alpha Chi Sigma?
I remain active in Alpha Chi Sigma because as my life circumstances have changed, so has my relationship to Alpha Chi Sigma and the ways I've been able to reach out and interact with my fellow brothers. I always say that the best decision I made in college was to join Alpha Chi Sigma, because it has paid off immensely for me in lifelong friendships, career connections, and an expansive network of resources. As a more established professional with several years of industry experience under my belt, I get great satisfaction from mentoring and guiding younger brothers in their professional journey as well. I also want to pay back to the organization that has provided too much for me, which is why I choose to volunteer with my District Committee, local Professional Chapters, and as a Professional Representative.
Tell me about your career (what do you do, how did you get where you are, what education do you need, etc.)
I'm currently the Product Development Specialist for the Amazing Grass brand, which sells plant-based protein powders and greens powders for smoothies and drinks. I am responsible for creating new products and managing their development from concept to store shelves. I found myself wanting to work in the food industry after I took a food chemistry course in college and loving the application of chemistry to our everyday lives through food! After completing an undergraduate degree in Chemistry I proceeded to get an MS in Food Science & Human Nutrition, and began working as a Food Technologist at Glanbia Performance Nutrition. After three years there, I transitioned to my current role with the Amazing Grass brand. I love product development because it is a highly creative frield that also requires robust technical knowledge of ingredients and processes.
What is something that collegiate brothers or other professionals may not know about your profession?
I often think that the public has a negative view of the food industry as misleading or untrustworthy, but in my experience all the food scientists i know want to create safe, sustainable, accessible, and delicious food products. Also, you might be surprised about how much work and thought (and sleepless nights conducting pilot plant trials) goes into your favorite food products!