Pittsburgh, PA, May 8, 2008--Printing Industries of America/Graphic Arts Technical Foundation (PIA/GATF) is seeking to honor a dedicated teacher and an industry trainer from the graphic communications field. Nominations for the Education Awards of Excellence are due June 20, 2008.

The Education Awards of Excellence were established by PIA/GATF in 1984 as a way to recognize that the success of graphic arts education and training programs depends heavily on the motivation, enthusiasm, and leadership of those dedicated to teaching.

Nominations for both academic educators and industry trainers are often merited by one or more of the following selection criteria:

    1.    A distinguished educational service provided as a direct result of the individual's leadership

    2.    A special education or training program that is attributed to the efforts of the individual

    3.    A significant educational project that was the result of the individual's efforts

    4.    A special display of graphic communications leadership at the local, state, or national level

    5.    A special educational or training accomplishment attributed to the individual

The selection criteria merely serve as guidelines; unique contributions not covered by the stated criteria will also be considered, with more significance attached to contributions that go beyond routine professional responsibilities. Educators from all academic levels and instructors in all segments of the printing industry are eligible for the award, and nominees do not have to be PIA/GATF members.

Nominations are judged by a selection committee comprised of educators and individuals from the graphic communications industry. The recipients will be honored at the 2008 GASC/PIA/GATF Teacher's Conference, October 25–27 in Chicago, IL.

For more information, contact Deena Hower, PIA/GATF Marketing Coordinator, at 412-259-1702 or [email protected]. Written requests can be directed to Deena Hower, 200 Deer Run Road, Sewickley, PA 15143-2600.