From 1944 to 1966, John A. Shellenberger, Ph.D., served as head of Kansas State University’s Department of Flour and Feed Milling.

Would the milling and baking industries be different today without the influence of John Shellenberger? Assuredly, yes. He was a natural leader, an educator who strongly promoted the industries his students entered. Throughout his life, he embodied the vigorous application of scientific methods that transformed American agriculture and the milling and baking industries in particular.

From 1944 to 1966, John A. Shellenberger, Ph.D. (1900-87), served as head of Kansas State University’s Department of Flour and Feed Milling (later named the School of Grain Science and Industry). It was an era of tremendous change. During his tenure, he built the world’s leading university program in milling and baking by using his education, administrative ability and extensive industry connections — accomplishments that now lead to his induction into the class of 2016 of the Baking Hall of Fame.

Dr. Shellenberger guided the school through trial and triumph. After the 1957 fire that destroyed its facility, he pushed through construction of a new building, dedicated in 1961 and named in his honor in 1970. He remained active as a distinguished professor emeritus until his death. Dr. Shellenberger epitomizes why the Baking Hall of Fame stands among the industry’s most prestigious honors.