Cyngient donates materials to Illinois State University

Cyngient has donated materials and expertise to Illinois State University (ISU), which participates in The Phoenix Challenge. This annual competition challenges graphic arts students to develop and present real-world flexo-based packaging.

ISU’s graphic arts program has been boosted as students and faculty utilize a complete set of printing materials to elevate the overall curriculum and its Phoenix Challenge entry.

Cyngient is providing ISU its premium UV flexo ink set, as well as specialty embellishments and print effect coatings such as functional coatings, Invisi-Glow, glow-in-dark technology and more.

In addition to inks and coatings, Cyngient also donates its insight and expertise. Company experts deliver educational presentations covering flexographic printing challenges related to inks, adhesives, coatings and primers. Students then take the content and techniques they are learning and put them to the test on the press. The ISU program has installed a Mark Andy Digital Pro 3 hybrid press, among other equipment.

Adam Burke, program coordinator at ISU, said: ‘Graphic communication programs in this country are becoming rare, even though the need for young talent in the industry is in high demand. Support from industry is critical to keep our programs relevant while allowing the students to experiment with the newest trends and technologies.’

Going forward, Cyngient plans to continue supporting the education of the industry’s future workforce by offering internships and extended guidance outside the classroom.

Andrew Wasserman, Cyngient’s managing partner, commented: ‘At Cyngient, we are deeply committed to advancing flexographic printing by investing in education and inspiring the next generation of talent. Our support for young adults reflects our belief that the future of our industry depends on knowledge, innovation, and continuous reinvestment.’