About Us

Phi Tau Sigma (ΦΤΣ) is the Honor Society for Food Science and Technology, dedicated to recognizing and celebrating academic excellence, leadership, and professional achievement in the field.

Founded in 1953 at the University of Massachusetts, Phi Tau Sigma was established by Dr. Gideon "Guy" Livingston and six graduate students: W. D. Powrie, M. P. Baldauf, R. V. Decareau, E. Felicioti, M. A. Steinberg, and D. E. Westcott. Since its founding, the society has grown into a national organization that honors outstanding students and professionals while promoting scholarship, service, and lifelong engagement within the food science community.

The Hoosier Chapter At Purdue University

The Hoosier Chapter at Purdue University was established in 1966, with Dr. William J. "Bill" Stadelman, poultry scientist in the Department of Animal Science, serving as its founding president. When Purdue's Department of Food Science was created in 1983, Dr. Stadelman joined Dr. Philip Nelson and nine other faculty members to help establish and lead the newly formed department.

For many years, Dr. Suzanne Nielsen served as the faculty advisor for the Hoosier Chapter. Through her dedication to education, mentorship, leadership, and service, she inspired generations of students and strengthened the chapter's tradition of excellence.

Following six years of inactivity, the Hoosier Chapter was reactivated in 2026 in honor of Dr. Nielsen. This renewed chapter celebrates her enduring legacy and recognizes the profound impact she has had on Purdue students and the broader food science community through her passion, guidance, and commitment to advancing the profession.