03/31/2026
The Power of Print
Our Print Week celebrations are always a special time for our industry. It’s a chance to step away from the presses and production floors and recognize the remarkable work being produced across our region, while also honoring the individuals whose leadership, passion and dedication continue to move print forward.
Print Week opened in the Southern Region with a celebration of the creativity, craftsmanship and dedication that define the industry, and even a rainy/foggy evening couldn’t dull the view or the energy in the room. The Cincinnati skyline still managed to shine, providing the perfect backdrop as members of our print community came together to celebrate another incredible year of creativity, craftsmanship, and innovation.
One of the night’s highlights was the presentation of the Printer of the Year award, presented to Duff Arnold of Arnold Printing.
Last year’s recipient, Cathy Lindemann of Evolution creative solutions, introduced Duff by highlighting the depth of his career and the leadership he has demonstrated throughout the years. When he took the microphone, Duff expressed his gratitude to GMA and shared heartfelt thanks to those who have supported him along the way including his wife, Sue, his sons Dustin and DJ, his brother and business partner Tim, and the many mentors who helped shape his path. He reflected on the foundation set by his father and uncle, noting that they taught him lessons that go far beyond anything found in a book.
Duff also shared his perspective on the industry, acknowledging that while print may not always seem glamorous, it is truly magical. He emphasized his “we” mindset, crediting the team at Arnold as the real stars behind the success and recognizing the collaborative spirit that drives the company forward. Honored to join the impressive list of past Printer of the Year recipients, Duff expressed joy for the future of print, describing it as looking both "exciting" and "magical". He closed by saying the recognition is one he will appreciate for years to come.
The ceremony continued with another standout moment as we presented the 39th Annual William Maxwell Award to Western & Southern Financial Group.
While the temperature dropped outside, it was warm inside at the Central Region celebration surrounded by the community, creativity and craftsmanship that make print such a powerful industry. Conversations filled the room as colleagues reconnected, new relationships were formed and attendees celebrated the work and people that continue to move print forward. It was especially exciting to see so many students in attendance, connecting with professionals and getting a firsthand look at opportunities in the printing and graphic communications field.
This year’s Franklinton Award was presented to two individuals this year. The first went to Ohio Governor Mike DeWine for his role in vetoing Ohio House Bill 96 which would have had detrimental effects on the printing industry. There was a scheduling conflict for this event, but GMA President Andrew Schall is in talks with the governor's office for Governor DeWine to attend our PEA Grand Ceremony in August to accept his award in person.
The second Franklinton Award was kept a surprise until the event and was presented to a very surprised Evan Baker of Millcraft, recognizing his remarkable contributions and dedication to the industry. In presenting the award, John Carpenter of Millcraft shared that it was a privilege to recognize “a special person and trusted colleague” who has long been a respected member of the Millcraft team. He highlighted Evan’s consistent support of the Buy and Give Paper Program, noting that Evan earns the “biggest heart” distinction year after year for his generosity and commitment to giving back.
Evan’s approach to his work has always been grounded in a simple but meaningful philosophy: doing whatever it takes to help a customer, as long as it is moral, legal, and ethical. As he looks ahead to retirement, Evan is excited to spend more time with family, closing this chapter with a legacy defined by integrity, service, and a genuine care for others that has left a lasting impression on colleagues and customers alike.
With sunshine overhead and a stunning sunset over Lake Erie as the backdrop in the Northern Region, the evening couldn’t have been more fitting for a celebration of our industry. The venue’s glass walls gave us a perfect view all night long, but while the setting was unforgettable, it was the people inside who truly made the night memorable. It’s always inspiring to see our industry come together to celebrate the creativity, craftsmanship and innovation that keep print moving forward.
Kim Kunimoto of Weekley’s Mailing Service was inducted into this year’s Hall of Distinction, an honor recognizing a career of dedication and impact within the print and mailing industry. Dave Kaufman began by sharing the history and significance of the Hall of Distinction, setting the stage for the evening’s recognition. Christian Weekley then proudly introduced Kim, highlighting his more than 30 years in print production, as well as his service in the Air Force. She spoke about the meaningful contributions Kim has made at Weekley’s, including leading “Printing 101” efforts to help bridge the gap between print production and the mailing side of the industry.
In accepting the honor, Kim graciously thanked God for the ability to do the work he loves and reflected on the values that shaped his career including a deep love of country and pride in his military service. He credited his father for instilling the importance of honesty and always doing the right thing, and shared heartfelt appreciation for his wife and family, noting he couldn’t have achieved his success without their support. Kim also applauded the industry professionals and print business owners in attendance, expressing his admiration for their work and the strength of the print community.
We closed out this year’s celebrations in the Michigan Region, and it couldn’t have been a better finale. With a record-breaking turnout of almost 180 attendees, the room was full of energy, conversation and pride for an industry that continues to evolve and thrive. One of the most exciting highlights of the evening was the strong student presence. Seeing so many future print professionals connecting, learning, and celebrating alongside industry veterans was a powerful reminder that the next generation is ready to carry print forward.
New this year, Graphic Media Alliance, along with the Michigan Advisory Council, has created the Benjamin Franklin Innovation Award, recognizing outstanding leadership, advocacy and forward-thinking contributions within the printing and graphic communications industry. The award honors individuals who embody the spirit of innovation while advancing the industry through advocacy, sustainability, and leadership, reflecting the enduring legacy of Benjamin Franklin, one of America’s earliest printers and champions of free expression.
The inaugural award was unanimously award to Brad Thompson of Inland Press. GMA President Andrew Schall introduced Brad and noted that he exemplifies the spirit of the award through his leadership, innovation and tireless advocacy at both the state and national levels. A fifth-generation leader, Thompson has spent more than four decades guiding Inland Press, driving investments in modern technologies, data-driven workflows, and sustainable practices while honoring the company’s heritage. He is also widely respected for his legislative advocacy, regularly engaging with policymakers to protect public notice, support postal policy and uphold First Amendment principles—efforts that help ensure print remains a trusted resource for informed communities.
In accepting the award, Brad Thompson shared that he was truly honored, noting that he has never done the work for a title or recognition but as part of a larger team of dedicated and creative professionals. He reflected on the many lessons learned from his father, as well as from colleagues and teams at Inland who demonstrate integrity, curiosity, and the belief that progress comes from people working together. Brad expressed sincere gratitude to everyone who supported him throughout his career, especially his family. He also offered advice to students and the next generation of print leaders, encouraging them to “lead boldly, listen deeply and never underestimate what you can do.”
We extend a very warm thank you to all of our sponsors who truly make events like these possible.