Medtronic

Currently, Ericka Bennett is a Senior Quality Engineer at Medtronic with over 10 years of experience in quality project management, product development, cosmetic research/product validation. Ericka has experience with OTC pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, and medical device quality systems that has helped improve quality testing and manufacturing, at various companies. Ericka has held positions as a Validation Engineer (GlaxoSmithKline), Validation Chemist (J. Strickland & Co.), Quality Control Chemist (GlaxoSmithKline), and Quality Control Technician (Vanguard Soap). Ericka received her Master of Public Administration in Healthcare Management from Grand Canyon University, and her Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from Tennessee State University.

SurfaTech Corporation

Thomas recieved his PhD in Polymer chemistry from the University of Tennessee. He is the technical director for a family owned chemcial company. His focus, since leaving Tennessee, is on naturally derived raw materials for the cosmetic market. He has been a member of the SCC since 2005 (student member). He is excited and honered by being announced the Chapter-elect of the Southeast Chapter. 

J. Strickland & Co.

At present, I hold the position of treasurer for the Southeast Chapter. In 2022, I served as treasurer- elect.  I have nearly 10 years of experience in the cosmetic Industry.  As a Quality Control Supervisor at J. Strickland & Co., it is my responsibility for assuring that raw materials and products we manufacture meet required qualifications and safety standards. Prior to J. Strickland & Co, I worked as a R&D Chemist at Vanguard Soap, LLC. I led the development of products for fortune 500 companies and small businesses. I have a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry with a minor in Biology and Sociology from the University of Memphis, a Graduate Certificate in Business Project Management from the University of Memphis, and an MBA from Grand Canyon University.

Crown Laboratories

Dexter Williams is an accomplished Research Scientist with over 20 years’ experience working in the OTC/Personal care/Cosmetic industry. Dexter has held research positions at Johnson & Johnson, Ashland, Lonza & Revlon and has been a member of the SCC since 1998. Dexter is a graduate of Fairleigh Dickinson University, Teaneck NJ where he earned a BS in Chemistry.  Dexter joined Crown Laboratories in Johnson City, TN in June 2022. He is responsible for delivering growth for all brands in the Crown portfolio.

J. Strickland & Co.

Hi, my name is Cynthia Thomas. I am the 2024 SESCC Chapter Secretary. This will be my second year as Secretary. I joined the cosmetic community in 2021, when I became employed with J. Strickland. I have been a Chemist since 1999. I have a background in Environmental, Pharmaceutical, Chemical, Consumer Health Care and now Cosmetic Chemistry. I have recently worked in Project Management, bringing our Stability Program in house, instead of outsourcing. My hobbies are riding motorcycles, skating, karaoke, and traveling/hanging with friends and family.

J. Strickland & Co.

Cathy is currently a consultant for J. Strickland & Co, working on quality and regulatory issues for the company.  I served as Research Director at Strickland until retiring early in 2022.  I am currently co-editor of the Southeast Chapter Newsletter.  In addition to serving as Newsletter Editor, I have previously served as Chapter Treasurer, Chair Elect, Chair and as Area IV Director during my time as a member of the SCC and the Southeast Chapter since 1985

Colonial Chemical

Kitrius is originally from Memphis, TN, and currently living in Chattanooga, TN. I have a bachelor's degree in business management from UOP. 

I work as a sales administrator for Colonial Chemical Inc, and I have been with the company for 3 years now. I volunteered to help out as a newsletter editor for the chapter to provide contributions and network amongst colleagues in the industry.