Pittsburgh, Pa - 9/11/2008 - Michael Riordan, Assistant Professor, School of Print Media, Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT), Rochester, New York has been named the sixth recipient of the Print and Graphics Scholarship Foundation (PGSF) Educator of the Year Award.  This award recognizes excellence in educational instruction for graphic communication and printing.  The award will be presented at the R & E Council of NAPL Critical Trends Breakfast Monday, October 27, 2008 during GRAPH EXPO '08.  

"The award is unique in that only students receiving PGSF scholarships are invited to nominate candidates."  Says Ted Ringman, Vice Present of Development at PGSF.  "Students nominate educators that have had a significant impact on their education and, in many cases, their lives.  Professor Riordan brings a fresh approach to all of his classes in the School of Print Media.  He challenges his students with the latest technology and the students respond with a high degree of respect for all that Professor Riordan brings to the classroom."  

Professor Riordan is a nationally recognized expert in color management and workflow systems.  He is a frequent speaker and is often called on to lead seminars in his areas of expertise.  Beyond the college classroom he is also involved with the RIT Print Industry Center, the Society for Imaging Science and Technology and is the faculty advisory for the local TAGA chapter.  Staying connected with industry allows Professor Riordan to be sure that his students are receiving current state of the art education.  

Currently 220 students attending 80 colleges are receiving approximately $500,000 in scholarship assistance through PGSF.  However, the Scholarship Foundation had to turn away 500 students due to lack of funds.  For information regarding tax-deductable contributions, establishing a scholarship through PGSF or scholarship applications contact Bernie Eckert, PGSF Program Administrator, 200 Deer Run Road, Sewickley, PA. 15143-2600, 412-259-1740, Fax 412-741-2311, [email protected].