Develop: Advance and Promote Careers in the Science of Food
Enhance and promote the knowledge of CSIFT members and prospective members worldwide

• Provide educational opportunities and leadership development that can be leveraged for individual career goals propelling food industry professionals
• Recognize, promote and elevate exceptional volunteer and academic accomplishments in the science of food through CSIFT sponsored awards
• Support students and future professionals through the Chicagoland Food Science Foundation with scholarship awards and donations to programs that foster education in food science

Network: Establish productive and interactive communities
Engage and convene relevant stakeholders to debate, create, and transfer knowledge, and communicate the latest information affecting the science of food.

• Provide an essential regional network and source of scientific and industry content to deliver local member value and strengthen connections to IFT
• Cultivate collaborative relationships with industry, academia, and other food related organizations to articulate the value of CSIFT and IFT engagement
• Sponsor outreach activities to promote professional development in the food industry

Innovate: Promote the Application of Science and Technology
Be a source of influence and thought leadership for the development, application and communication of the science of food.

• Create access to the Chicagoland food industry through events such as the Annual Supplier’s Expo and Symposium, quarterly professional development events, and monthly technical programs
• Unite with industry partners to add value and broaden our avenues for the distribution of educational information

Include: Enable Diversity, Inclusion, and Equity
Leverage diversity and inclusion within CSIFT to advance our mission and the science of food.

• Embrace an inclusive culture where all CSIFT members and volunteers experience an elevated sense of community, belonging and opportunities to succeed
• Promote understanding and alignment to IFT’s Diversity and Inclusion definition and related mission and vision
• Demonstrate awareness that CSIFT serves a diverse population within its membership and professionals in food science and nutrition