Washington, DC – The American Bakers Association (ABA) recognized the champions of the baking industry during the 2022 Bakers’ Dozen Congressional Awards Ceremony. Traditionally held in-person on Capitol Hill with nearly 900 Congressional staff, featuring products from ABA Members, this year’s virtual celebration gave the opportunity for ABA Members throughout the country to hear directly from their champions.
“This year, the baking industry has continued to experience unprecedented challenges, however, the industry continues to be resilient and nimble,” said Lee Sanders, Senior Vice President of Government Relations and Public Affairs, ABA, at the Virtual Awards Ceremony. “I'm grateful to be able to advocate and share the great stories of our industry's innovation up on Capitol Hill and through the country.”
“The laws and regulations that are passed have a significant impact on the baking industry,” said Cordia Harrington, CEO of Crown Bakeries and ABA Chair. “It's important that we stay engaged and continue to educate members of Congress about our industry.”
Those honored with ABA’s 2022 Bakers’ Dozen Award:
“We need to get better at knowing what we need to grow, what we need to eat, and then make it widely accessible to those who are not as fortunate to live in a place like America,” said Senator Mike Braun of Indiana. “And even here in our own country, we've got food deserts; we've got things that we need to improve on.”
“I'm honored to earn the Bakers Dozen Award and proud to lead efforts in Congress that protect the baking industry from burdensome regulations and allow bakers and small businesses across the country to thrive,” said Rep. Elise Stefanik (NY-21) at the Bakers’ Dozen Awards Ceremony.
ABA also recognized the late Rep. Jackie Walorski (IN-2), who was a past Bakers’ Dozen Awardee and a champion of the baking industry. “She championed issues for the baking industry in new nutrition policy, and SNAP Choice,” said Lee Sanders. “We wanted to take a moment to honor her service to the baking industry, Indiana, and the country.”
