Credit: DEMA
Nathan Lee Norris Sr. was posthumously honored with the Robert A. Fischer Distinguished Service Award by the American Society of Baking (ASB) on Feb. 18, 2025, during the ASB's BakingTech conference in Orlando, Fla.
This prestigious award recognizes outstanding service and leadership within the society. Presenting the award was Xochitl Cruz, ASB chair and vice president of sweet goods operations for Bimbo Bakeries USA, Horsham.
His commitment to the ASB was evident through his active involvement on the board of directors, where he served as secretary and treasurer in 2020. He was slated to be ASB’s 2027-2028 board chair at the time of his passing.
The Robert A. Fischer Distinguished Service Award, established in 2000, honors individuals who have made significant contributions to the ASB. Norris became the 25th recipient of this award, underscoring his profound impact on the society and the baking industry as a whole.
Norris, who passed away on October 30, 2024, at the age of 64, was a distinguished U.S. Army veteran and dedicated over 45 years to the baking industry. He served as the Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Highland Baking Co. in Spartanburg, South Carolina, where he became a respected mentor and leader.
