SAN LUIS OBISPO - Cal Poly's Graphic Communication Department in the College of Liberal Arts and the Polymers and Coatings Science Program in the College of Science and Mathematics have formed a unique, interdisciplinary partnership to address specific needs in the coatings, ink and toner industries. The Coatings, Ink and Toners Partners in Education Fund was created to provide private support for initiatives at the core of the interdisciplinary education and research efforts of these industries. The private funds will allow: - Training in the theory and practice of coatings, inks and toners - Opportunities to conduct research in polymers and coatings laboratories and apply that research using graphic communication equipment - Opportunities to conduct research, testing and product evaluations in the university's Substrates, Ink and Toner Lab - Classroom exchanges between the two programs to create a better understanding of the scientific and practical skills needed in the industries - One-day to one-week short courses for industry members - Sponsored research with some of the university's premier faculty members - Faculty and students to travel to regional and national conferences to gain experience in presenting their research to scientific colleagues - Internet-based virtual training and teaching programs. "This unique partnership between two programs and colleges is evidence of Cal Poly's commitment to addressing the future viability of the coatings, ink and toner industries," said Cal Poly Graphic Communication Department Head Harvey Levenson. "We want to prepare students who are well qualified to enter these fields by providing programs that serve the research, testing and continuing education needs of the industries."