October 2, 2003 -- Ray Roper, who retired in May after sixteen years as the President and CEO of Printing Industries of America, was presented the industry’s top award at ceremonies in Chicago on September 28th. The award, known as the Lewis Memorial Lifetime Achievement Award, is co-sponsored by Printing Industries of America and Graphic Arts Monthly magazine. In presenting the award, Roger Ynostroza, Editor and Chief of Graphic Arts Monthly, stated: “Roper transformed the PIA family from being a club into being an effective, responsive industry association working for the benefit of the industry.” Roper has been recognized for his contributions to both the association profession and the printing industry. In 1991 he was selected for the top award granted by the American Society of Association Executives, the Key Award. In 1995 he was named association executive of the year by Association Trends newsletter. In January, 2003, the Printing Association of Florida selected Roper for its Graphic Arts Leader of the Americas award. In commenting on the Lewis Memorial Lifetime Achievement Award, Roper noted he had been doubly blessed. “Not only was it my good fortune to pursue a career in association management, but I also had the opportunity to work with and for men and women for whom I have the utmost respect and admiration. To be recognized by them with this award is a truly humbling experience.” Roper and his wife, Judy, have opened a management consulting firm, Roper & Roper, LLC which provides management consulting services to both associations and graphic arts companies. The firm's services are outlined on its website, www.roperconsulting.net.