Cathy Strange, Whole Foods Market’s Global Cheese Buyer, has been honored with the American Cheese Society’s Lifetime Achievement Award.
Known and widely recognized across the cheese industry for her achievements and experience, Strange has long been regarded as an expert in her craft. This award recognizes the lasting impact she has made in the industry, as well as her inspirational and respectful character.
“ACS is delighted to honor Cathy Strange for her accomplishments and contributions to our organization and the cheese industry,” Nora Weiser, Executive Director of the American Cheese Society, said in a press release. “She continues to inspire, mentor, educate, and develop the next generation of cheese professionals.”
Strange has worked in the cheese industry for more than 30 years, creating and nurturing strong relationships with farmers and cheesemakers. She has been instrumental in increasing the number of Certified Cheese Professionals (CCP) at Whole Foods Market, which has now employed 58 percent of the world’s CCPs.
Love the Team Members! Love the cheese! pic.twitter.com/9r30IV6WwQ
— Cathy Strange (@WFMCheese) August 1, 2015Her other achievements include being named as the only American and non-Italian to ever receive the “Coltellino d’oro” from the Consortium of Parmigiano Reggiano, as well as being awarded the French Order of Agricultural Merit. The “Coltellino d’oro,” or golden knife, was given to Strange for her expert selection of Parmigiano Reggiano wheels, which she makes by personally visiting northern Italy yearly to meet with cheesemakers and hand select the cheese.
She has also served as a judge for ACS competitions, the World Cheese Championships, the U.S. Cheese Championships, the World Cheese Awards, and the British Cheese Awards.
Deli Market News would like to congratulate Strange on this achievement, as well as thank her for her service to the cheese industry!
