April 12, 2007 -- SAN LUIS OBISPO -- Cal Poly graphic communication students captured first-place honors in an international competition for producing a research journal. The university’s student chapter of the Technical Association of the Graphic Arts (TAGA) won the grad prize award at TAGA’s annual convention. TAGA is comprised of researchers, scientists and technical specialists spanning all facets of the graphic arts industry. The students are judged on how well their research is written, produced and presented as a journal, and the extent of student involvement in the project. There are two levels of judging, one by conference attendees and one by the TAGA board of directors. The Cal Poly entry won on both levels. Eight students and Graphic Communication Department Head Harvey Levenson attended the conference in Pittsburgh, where they received the award. Approximately 25 TAGA student chapters worldwide are eligible to participate in the competition. “This is a tremendously impressive achievement from one of the most competitive student contests in the graphic arts field,” Levenson said. “Winning the Grand Prize demonstrates the level of focus we place on not only research but also on writing and graphic presentation. The award also speaks volumes about the hard work and dedication of Xiaoying Rong, who serves as faculty advisor for Cal Poly's chapter of TAGA.” Cal Poly's winning entries include the following research papers: "Highlight Dot Shoulder Angle Using Bank Source Exposure & Point Source Exposure In Digital Platemaking for Flexography," by Nancy Schueneman "On the Fence: The Future of JDF," by Michael Bayard, Sharon Ernst & Peter Uzzi "Printability of Biodegradable Film," by Jessica Jacobson "Plasma Substrate Treatment," by Elise Sanders.