Effie EpkeRecipient of IFT scholarships 2001, 2002, and 2004

Scholarship RecipientAs a food scientist, Effie Epke specializes in all aspects of food product development at the International Food Network. How exactly did Effie acquire her taste for a career working with clients in the food and beverage industry? “I attended a summer workshop at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln after graduating from high school. I have been hooked ever since!”

Mentor Dr. Susan Cuppett provided Effie with academic guidance in her transition from undergraduate to graduate school. Effie participated in several internships in college: She worked in product development at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, in quality assurance at Meadow Gold Dairy, and as a product development intern with ConAgra Frozen Foods. Effie’s multiple internships helped identify product development as her primary interest.

What is Effie’s cuisine of comfort for students in food science majors? “Food science is ever changing and advancing, and it is really exciting to be on the forefront of new product development. An [IFT scholarship] is a valuable resource not only monetarily but also in terms of networking with other students and professionals.”