FTA launches Gary Hilliard Memorial Scholarship

Flexographic Technical Association (FTA) has launched a new scholarship, the FFTA/FQC Gary Hilliard Memorial Scholarship, offering a 2,500 USD grant to a full-time student enrolled in a graphics communication curriculum.

FTA launches Gary Hilliard Memorial Scholarship

Sponsored by the Flexo Quality Consortium (FQC), the scholarship is open to full time students enrolled in a graphics communication curriculum. The 2,500 USD grant will be offered to the top student with plans to execute a class project focused on flexographic printing. The award is available to sophomores, juniors or seniors enrolled in a two- or four-year institution. The application deadline is February 1, 2016.

‘Gary Hilliard was an active member of FTA and the flexographic industry, volunteering his time and expertise to chair numerous committees focused on the development and technology of flexography,’ said Jean Engelke of RR Donnelley, and FQC executive committee chair. ‘He authored numerous articles, was a significant contributor to FTA’s First Design Guide, served as chair of the FFTA and was the recipient of several FTA Awards, including the prestigious FTA Hall of Fame.

‘It is in recognition of Gary’s drive and passion of our industry that the FQC decided to create this scholarship in his name.’

FTA hosted a golf tournament earlier this year in honor of Gary Hilliard, with net proceeds from the event going toward the Gary Hilliard Scholarship Fund.

FTA is also now accepting entries for the 2016 Sustainability Excellence Awards. Entries will be judged in two categories, Sustainability Programs and Innovations in Sustainability, and the deadline for entries is December 18 this year.

The Sustainability Excellence Awards program is open to any stakeholder in the flexographic printing supply chain, whether an FTA member or not. This includes printers, suppliers, designers, pre-press providers, educational facilities and print buyers. Since 2000, FTA has been recognizing companies for their efforts in developing innovative processes, products and management approaches that have had a positive impact on the environment, people and profits.