FFTA announces 2025 scholarship recipients

The Foundation of Flexographic Technical Association (FFTA) has announced the recipients of the 2025 FFTA Scholarship and Gary Hilliard FQC Scholarship, recognizing two outstanding students whose academic excellence, leadership and passion for flexography position them to shape the future of the industry.

Andrew Kidd, a Graphic Communication student at California Polytechnic State University-San Luis Obispo, has received the 2025 FFTA Scholarship. The full-time student, parent and accomplished wine label designer brings a unique blend of industry experience and creative vision to his studies.

'With this scholarship, I can contribute to bridging the gap between design and flexographic production by allowing me to focus more on creating resources that empower designers and elevate print quality and efficiency,' said Kidd. 'I hope to help reduce prepress time and boost profitability across the industry.'

Maxon Morse, a senior at Clemson University studying Graphic Communications, has received this year's Gary Hilliard FQC Scholarship. His research project explores how the use of foil in four-color process printing affects color management, addressing a critical question for brands and converters.

'The goal of this project is to get a better understanding of color management of a four-color process run in relation to foil,' said Morse. 'This can be especially important when using brand-critical spot colors to ensure consistency across packaging elements.'

'Congratulations to our 2025 FFTA Scholarship winner,' said Kristen Shields, FFTA scholarship committee chair. 'Andrew stood out amongst a group of highly qualified candidates. We are proud to support his journey towards advancing printing excellence.'

The scholarship programs continue to support students pursuing careers in flexography and graphic communications. Recipients must demonstrate academic excellence, commitment to the field and potential to advance the printing and packaging industry.

'Maxon Morse exemplifies the next generation of innovators in flexographic printing,' said Catherine Haynes, chair of the FQC committee. 'His project exploring the relationship between color management and foil effects demonstrates both technical curiosity and a passion for advancing package printing. We're excited to support emerging talent like Maxon, whose work promises to help shape the future of packaging and print.'