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PGSF Holds Annual 2021 Student T-Shirt Design Contest
by Jules VanSant in Press Releases
The Print and Graphics Scholarship Foundation (PGSF) is pleased to announce its annual promotional t-shirt design competition. High school and college students are invited to submit entries by April 10, 2021. The t-shirt design will be used to promote PGSF scholarship opportunities and highlight how graphic communications fit into today’s world. The winning entrant will receive a $500 check, an award certificate, and will be recognized in PGSF’s promotional materials. Schools are encouraged to offer the design competition as a real-world working assignment. Abigail Carter of Mattoon High School won the 2020 design contest thanks to graphic arts teacher Laura Roberts who offered the design project as a school assignment. Roberts recognizes the importance for students to participate in real-world design competitions. “It is important that we educate students on various vocational trades that are in high demand. Many high schools no longer offer vocational classes. I am happy to educate and inspire graphic communications to our high school students giving them a viable career path in higher education. 2020 has definitely demonstrated the flexibility and possibilities creating endless opportunities for students in this ever-changing field,” comments Roberts. “We encourage educators to incorporate the PGSF t-shirt design contest as part of their yearly curriculum. It’s a great way to reinforce the value of careers in the graphic communications industry, while providing an opportunity for students to challenge themselves in a national contest,” comments Jules Van Sant, Chair, PGSF. Design entries must include the following:
- Prominently display Print and Graphics Scholarship Foundation name and logo in the right or left hand corner. Download PGSF logos here.
- Design theme options (Pick one and showcase): a. Graphic Communications in Today’s World b. Career Opportunities in Graphics & Print c. Apply for Scholarships in Graphic Communications
- Submit entries as a pdf HERE. -Files should be named as follows: -Firstname_Lastname_Schoolname_2021
- Include entrant’s school name and name of creative designer or names of team members.
- The winner of the contest must submit all files required for reproduction. File becomes property of PGSF.
- T-shirts will be produced and printed on the show floor at Printing United.
- Entries are due by April 10, 2021. Judging will be in May and the winner will be notified by May 31.
PGSF Gives Scholarship Opportunities to Industry Professionals for Continuing Education
by Printing Industries in About, Press Releases
Visual & Print Technology Week in January 2021 to Showcase Resources Available for Career Advancement
Pittsburgh, PA — December 1, 2020 — The Print and Graphics Scholarship Foundation (PGSF) is pleased to announce scholarship opportunities to professionals in the graphics communications industry for the second consecutive year. Scholarships are available to individuals who are currently employed by a graphic communications company and are seeking education on a part-time basis. Click here to start an online application for enrollment. PGSF’s 2021–2022 scholarship application period runs from November 1, 2020, to May 1, 2021. To apply for a scholarship, applicants must be confirmed by their employer by May 1, 2021. The employer must be in the graphic communications industry, either as a service provider or as a supplier to the industry. The applicant must also intend to continue a career in graphic communications, printing technology, printing management, or publishing. The PGSF scholarship application must indicate the courses the applicant plans on taking and their costs, which will be used to establish the amount of an award. Scholarship applications are evaluated during May and June, and recipients will be notified in July and August of 2021.Workforce Programs to Advance the Graphic Communications Industry
PGSF scholarship applicants are encouraged to attend the upcoming Visual & Print Technology Week taking place January 18-22, 2021. Hosted by the Graphics Communication Workforce Coalition, this virtual program will provide an opportunity for the current workforce, as well as high-school students, to learn about the value of graphic technologies and the opportunities for career development within the industry. Members of PGSF will be available during the virtual event to answer any questions about scholarship opportunities and career development.Read moreCoalition Elects Additional Board Members
by Jules VanSant in Press Releases
The recently formed Graphic Communications Workforce Coalition has elected several industry leaders to its board of directors. The Coalition consists of concerned associations, educators and industry representatives who are uniting to address a key industry concern. As stated in its organizing documents, “The purpose of the coalition will be to coordinate the efforts of all organizations representing the broad scope of the graphic communications industry for creating awareness, recruitment of new people into the industry, providing a framework for apprenticeship and training programs, and the retention of the existing workforce. By combining the separate efforts, experiences and initiatives of various organizations, coordinating actions and the sharing of ideas and resources, it is expected that all will benefit.”
To date, 53 organizations have joined the group, with additional interested parties welcome to sign on.
The new board members are:
Carl Blue (Clemson University)
Steve Bonoff (Printing Industry Midwest)
Jules Van Sant (Bubble & Hatch, PGSF)
Brian Regan (Semper International)
This important initiative addresses the number one issue that faces the industry today. That is the recruitment, retention, and training of its workforce. Numerous studies and surveys have documented that this is a major concern for nearly every company in the industry. Various associations and individual companies have taken steps to address this issue, but there has never been an organized joint effort. The Coalition will serve to bring together and focus efforts and energy for the mutual benefit of all parties.
Membership is open to interested parties representing a broad spectrum of the graphic communications industry. This includes associations, vendors to the industry, educational institutions, and all areas of print and graphic communications service providers. Those interested in participating are encouraged to visit the website at gccoalition.org and use the link to join the group. Currently, there is no cost to join, only the desire to participate in the process. The coalition is actively seeking service providers and industry vendors to both its membership and to represent their constituencies on the board.
For more information, or to answer any questions about the Coalition please contact John Berthelsen at johnb@pgsf.org or 608-575-3904.
Now Accepting Scholarship Applications
by Jules VanSant in Press Releases
PGSF Now Accepting Scholarship Applications for 2021–2022 Academic Year
Annual program is open to full- or part-time students pursuing an education in the graphics communications industry. The Print and Graphics Scholarship Foundation (PGSF) is pleased to announce that it’s accepting scholarship applications for the 2021–2022 academic year. PGSF provides scholarships to individuals interested in an education and a career in the graphic communications industry. The 2021–2022 scholarship application period runs from November 1, 2020, to May 1, 2021. PGSF’s goal is to attract individuals to the graphic communications industry and to inform them of the wide variety of career opportunities available. The organization awards scholarships to high school seniors or students already enrolled in a post-secondary program, as well as to individuals who are currently employed by a graphic communications company and are seeking additional education. This is the second consecutive year that PGSF is offering scholarships to part-time students. “We strive to help students pursuing an education in the graphics communications industry, and we’re excited to offer scholarships to those already in the workforce for the second year in a row. It’s a valuable resource to employers and employees looking to expand and grow within their organization,” comments Jules Van Sant, Chair, PGSF.Full-Time Applications
Scholarship applications are evaluated during May and June, and recipients will be notified in July and August of 2021. The following requirements are necessary for full-time students to be considered by the selection committee:- Application submitted by May 1, 2021.
- Two recommendations.
- Official transcripts or a copy (must be submitted online with the application).
- 3.0 GPA or better.
- Full-time status (12 or more credits per term).
- Enrolled in a printing or graphics program at a technical school, college, or university within the United States.
- The student must be pursuing a career in printing technology, printing management, graphic communications, or publishing.
Part-Time Applications
Individuals who are currently employed by a graphic communications company and are seeking additional, part-time education are encouraged to apply for a PGSF scholarship. In order to be considered, applicants must be confirmed by their employer by May 1. The employer must be in the graphic communications industry, either as a service provider or as a supplier to the industry. The applicant must also intend to continue a career in graphic communications, printing technology, printing management, or publishing. No transcripts or GPA are required for the initial application; however, in order to be considered for scholarship renewal, the recipient must achieve and maintain a cumulative 3.0 or higher GPA. Grades are to be submitted upon completion of coursework and sent to PGSF. Scholarships for part-time applicants may be awarded for online-only programs. The application must indicate the courses the applicant plans on taking and their costs. This information will be used to establish the amount of any award. Click here to start an application for part-time enrollment.About PGSF
The Print and Graphics Scholarship Foundation is a not-for-profit, private, industry-directed organization that dispenses technical and college scholarships and assistance to talented youth interested in graphic communication careers. The mission of PGSF is to promote the graphics industry as a career choice for young people and then to support them through their education process. Contact: Bernie Eckert, Managing Director Print and Graphics Scholarship Foundation 724-553-4028 Bernie.eckert@pgsf.orgRead more
Print is Everywhere
by Jules VanSant in Press Releases
PGSF supports this industry-wide effort that Print is Everywhere!
- THE PRINT IS EVERYWHERE CAMPAIGN Website
- SURVEY: Show Your Interest in PRINT IS EVERYWHERE
- Download PRINT IS media release
PGSF Marks a Major Milestone for Graphic Communications Students
by Jules VanSant in Press Releases
The Foundation Has Awarded $10 Million in Scholarships Since 2000
Pittsburgh, PA — October 1, 2020 — The Print and Graphics Scholarship Foundation (PGSF) is pleased to mark the milestone of $10 million in scholarships distributed to students seeking higher education in graphic communications since 2000. PGSF and its donors award hundreds of scholarships each year to support future members of the graphics communications industry. In the current academic year alone, the organization awarded more than 200 scholarships, collectively valued at over $500,000, ranging from $1,000 to $7,100 per recipient.
“The $10 million milestone is one that everyone should be proud of. Each scholarship is an investment in the students, the schools, and the businesses that support PGSF and the graduating students. PGSF is pivotal for strengthening the education cycle and the future of the graphic communications industry,” comments Jules Van Sant, Chair, PGSF. PGSF is a nonprofit dedicated to dispensing undergraduate college and technical school scholarships and graduate fellowship assistance, funded by annual and endowed funds provided by individuals, companies, and associations.Educators Praise PGSF
“I truly admire the hard work of the PGSF making so many opportunities available to our students in this difficult time. Their support is an ongoing beacon of encouragement for me as a teacher and an aspirational point for our students, who through the support of the PGSF have been able to achieve a high-quality education in printing and graphic arts,” comments Dr. Grant Tedaldi of Orange Technical College in Orlando.
“PGSF scholarships are a good investment by the industry in the future of young professionals who will continue to develop and improve the field of graphic communication,” Dr. Mark Snyder, Professor, Millersville University of Pennsylvania. “PGSF helps our students in so many ways that I can just suggest that it is a lifeline to students who really need it. I know the students really appreciate any help they can get,” comments Lois Lemon, Master Faculty Specialist, Western Michigan University.PGSF Acknowledges Donors
PGSF receives donations from individuals as well as large corporations. Contributions are made to an existing endowed fund established in the name of a person, organization, or local area, or as a memorial or honorary gift for someone in the industry. Individuals can also make a gift to PGSF through a bequest in a will.
PGSF acknowledges the donors that make it possible for the organization to deliver scholarships to students. EFI, GLGA Foundation, Graphic Arts Alliance, Print America, Bruce Tietz, Alcom and Nova have all created permanent endowed scholarships. Heidelberg, O’Dell and PIAG all contribute to annual scholarship programs.
About PGSF
The Print and Graphics Scholarship Foundation is a not-for-profit, private, industry-directed organization that dispenses technical and college scholarships and assistance to talented youth interested in graphic communication careers. The mission of PGSF is to promote the graphics industry as a career choice for young people, and then to support them through their education process.
Read moreWow – Specialty Print Communications (SPC)
by Jules VanSant in Press Releases
Wow – Specialty Print Communications (SPC) has really done an incredible job of helping to promote our industry and provide valuable insight and direction in how to become a part of it. This piece provides detailed recommendations on not only how to become a part of the graphics industry but also provides specific ideas useful to anyone about to enter secondary education as well looking to find that first job. SPC provides a model that should be followed by all Graphic Arts companies to help ensure the future success of the industry. CLICK HERE to access their White Paper.
Read more
PGSF Adds New Board Members in 2020
by Jules VanSant in Press Releases
Pittsburgh, PA.— At its summer board meeting, the Print and Graphics Scholarship Foundation (PGSF) elected several new members as well as re-electing existing members to additional terms. The PGSF Board directs an endowed fund of just under $10 million that is dedicated towards encouraging young people to consider the graphics field as a career and then assisting in their education process to facilitate that end.
Nominated for new three-year terms on the board were:
- Nick Gawreluk, Heidelberger Druckmaschinen AG (Germany)
- Stephanie Hill, HP
- Teresa Campbell, Printing Industries Mid-America
Nominated for additional three-year terms were:
- Peter Schaefer, New Directions
- Amela O’Gorman, Quad Graphics
- Frank Kanonik, Intellective Solutions
PGSF Awards More Than $500,000 in Scholarships for the 2020–2021 Academic Year
by Jules VanSant in Press Releases
Pittsburgh, PA — August 4, 2020 — The Print and Graphics Scholarship Foundation (PGSF) is pleased to announce 226 winners of its scholarship program for the 2020–2021 academic year. The nonprofit, dedicated to dispensing undergraduate college and technical school scholarships, and graduate fellowship assistance, has awarded a total of $501,500 in scholarships for the coming academic year, ranging from $1,000 to $7,100 per recipient. PGSF scholarship winners are attending 120 accredited colleges, technical schools, and universities in the United States, such as Cal Poly, Clemson University, Ferris State University, Appalachian State University, Pittsburg State University, University of Cincinnati, and University of Wisconsin-Stout. “We are excited to offer the PGSF scholarships to a very deserving group of individuals, especially in this unprecedented year,” comments Jules Van Sant, Chair, PGSF. “The 2020 - 2021 group is one of the best qualified in years, exhibiting a high interest in the graphic communications field.” Students in Print PGSF accepts scholarship applications from full- and part-time students from November 1 through April 1 for the coming academic year. In addition to high school seniors or students already enrolled in a post-secondary program, PGSF accepts scholarship applications from individuals who are currently employed by a graphic communications company and are seeking additional education. A selection of scholarship recipients are featured on PGSF’s Students in Print Web page. Video testimonials provide insight into the thoughts and motivations of the future generation who will be joining the graphic communications industry. Since its inception in 1956, the PGSF has awarded millions of dollars in scholarships to support future members of the graphics communications industry. Individuals, companies, and associations provide both annual and endowed funds to PGSF, which administers the scholarship and fellowship programs for the industry. Scholarship recipients are determined by industry educators, consultants, and PGSF alumni. Testimonials
Read more2020-2021 PGSF Scholarship Recipients
by Jules VanSant in Press Releases
A HUGE congratulations to all our 2020-2021 academic year Scholarship winners. We are thrilled to announce over 200 scholarships awarded to 187 students, amounting to over $500,000!! Following is a listing of recipients by state and listing the lucky school that will be welcoming them this fall.