Graphics of the Americas (GOA) is pleased to announce that Sr. Gustavo Adolfo Morales Velilla has been named the 2013 Graphic Arts Leaders of the Americas (GALA) Award recipient for Latin America. The North American GALA winner will be announced shortly. Both winners will officially be honored at the elegant GALA festivities in Orlando, on February 21, 2013 at the Rosen Shingle Creek hotel.

The annual GALA Award, established in 1982, is one of the printing industry's most prestigious honors. It is given to professionals who excel in management, technology, business and quality; as well as those who significantly contribute to the graphic arts industry as well as back to the community. Members of the Printing Industry of America and CONLATINGRAF associations nominate the award recipients.

The GALA banquet coincides with the Graphics of the Americas Conference & Exposition in Orlando, Fla., on February 21-23, 2013 at the Orange County Convention Center.

George Ryan, GOA President, says, "We are pleased to name a professional with such extensive qualifications as Gustavo Adolfo Morales Velilla, as this year's GALA winner representing the Latin American community. There is a very positive outlook for our industry given that individuals like he are leading initiatives with such impact on our industry."

Sr. Gustavo Adolfo Morales Velilla
The 2013 Latin American GALA Award recipient is Sr. Gustavo Adolfo Morales Velilla, CEO of Talleres Gráficos Emasa in Asunción, Paraguay. He is also president of AIGP - the Paraguayan Printing Association; and managing Director of EMASA S.R.L, a printing company located in the capital city of Asunción.

Morales Velilla served as AIGP president in 2005 and 2011, and was named the Graphic industry business representative to Feprinco, the Federation of Production, Industry, Trade and Services. He is an active participant in CONLATINGRAF assemblies. His local work is focused on creating opportunities for education and training, and improving the workforce to meet qualifications required by the graphic industry. He was also instrumental in restructuring the Center for Graphic Arts.

To reserve tickets for the GALA reception, or for more information about GOA 2013, please visit: www.goa2013.com.