Norwalk, Connecticut, USA — After nearly 40 years of distinguished service to the graphic arts industry, Ken-Ichi Shimazu, Corporate Vice President and Distinguished Scientist at Kodak Polychrome Graphics (KPG), retired on November 1. The KPG Leadership Team member exits the graphic arts industry after earning over 30 published patents on innovations ranging from lithographic film to no-preheat thermal computer-to-plate (CtP) technology. “Ken Shimazu’s leadership, intelligence and innate ability to recognize and champion promising new technologies and products places KPG in an excellent position for continued innovation,” said Jeff Jacobson, CEO. “He left an indelible mark on both KPG and the graphic arts industry and for that we are grateful. We wish Ken all the best in the next chapter of his life.” Shimazu began his career with Polychrome Corporation in 1965 as a Senior Chemist, working his way to Vice President of Corporate Research and Development. While at Polychrome, Shimazu helped develop many plate, film and proofing innovations. He also served as a chemist at Oriental Photo Ind. Company, where he worked on unconventional imaging systems. At the formation of KPG in 1998, Shimazu served as Vice President of Corporate Research and Development and led the consolidation of many CtP products from Eastman Kodak Company, Polychrome and Horsell Anitec into a streamlined CtP product offering from KPG. A recipient of the Graphic Arts Award by the Society of Photographic Science and Technology in Japan, Shimazu has served as a chapter president and conference chairman for IS&T (formerly SPSE) and is currently a senior member. Shimazu, a native of Japan, received his undergraduate degree from Chiba University, his master’s degree from Polytechnic Institute and his Ph.D. from Tokyo Institute of Technology.