Paramus, N.J. - The National Association for Printing Leadership (NAPL) has continued its ongoing support of the Print and Graphics Scholarship Foundation (PGSF) with a $2,500 donation to the fund, bringing NAPL's contributions to well over $20,000 since 2002. The 2010 gift was presented by Bob Whitton of NAPL to Ted Ringman, PGSF Vice President of Development, during NAPL's Critical Trends Summit breakfast at Graph Expo in Chicago on October 4. Part of the proceeds from each year's Critical Trends program goes to the PGSF scholarship fund.

"NAPL is pleased to support the work that PGSF does in helping the students who will play key roles in our industry's future success, and we encourage everyone in the industry to join us in helping it fulfill its mission," said NAPL President and Chief Executive Officer Joseph P. Truncale. "PGSF now helps some 200 printing and graphic communications students at 80 schools throughout the country, but it is forced to turn down many more applicants because it simply does not have the funds to help them. Any company concerned about where they will find the skilled and knowledgeable employees they will need in the years ahead should strongly consider supporting its important work in helping young people who want to join our industry."

The NAPL Critical Trends Summit also played host to ceremonies honoring Professor Pat Klarecki with the 2010 PGSF Educator of the Year Award, which recognizes excellence in educational instruction for graphic communication and printing. Klarecki is Professor of Printing Management and Interim Director of the School of Design and Manufacturing at Ferris State University, Big Rapids, Mich. He was introduced to the industry gathering by PGSF Elected Chair Doug P. Yeager, Chief Operating Officer, Alcom Printing, Harleysville, Pa.

"With the rate and volume of change occurring in the print media industry, it is absolutely mission critical that educators and industry professionals build strong partnerships," said Professor Klarecki. "Research data shows that the current workforce is beginning to retire in larger numbers, with fewer and fewer young people entering our industry through educational channels. Educators need the industry leaders' voice in local and state governmental debates about the future of career and technical education.

"Educators also need direction and assistance from our industry to teach the skills and concepts that will drive businesses forward," he continued. "And lastly, there are significant numbers of talented young people who want to pursue careers in print media but simply cannot afford the cost of college education; your support of PGSF is more important than ever."

"If an educator can reach out and inspire many students, it is a winning combination for the industry, the college, and the students," said Ringman. "Professor Klarecki has combined his industry experience, his love of printing, and excellent academic credentials to bring an exciting learning experience into the classroom and the Printing Management Department."

NAPL's donations to PGSF have supported two annual scholarships to college students in graphic communications who maintain a minimum 3.0 average.