Girls Who Print awards three industry members

Girls Who Print, the largest global network of women in the print and graphic communication industry, has presented three awards during the online Girls Who Print Day Conference on November 7.

The 2024 Rising Star Award was presented to Kiki Heron, account manager, training and development leader at Specialty Print Communications, by Kelly Mallozzi, principal at Success in Print, who runs the Girls Who Print mentorship program. The award recognizes women who have stepped up and taken the initiative to proactively help the industry, their company, and their colleagues.

‘I am honored to receive recognition as a young woman in the print industry,’ said Heron. ‘I hope my journey can inspire the next generation of women to pursue careers in this space, confidently share their ideas for innovation, and embrace leadership opportunities.’

The inaugural Girls Who Print Ally Award was presented to Ryan LeFebvre, executive vice president of sales and marketing at Specialty Print Communications. He has supported Girls Who Print for over ten years and created initiatives and events to celebrate Girls Who Print Day. He is also a champion of graphic communication programs, provides internships for students, and has cultivated a culture at SPC where employees can rise and thrive.

‘I am truly humbled and honored to receive the first-ever Girls Who Print Ally Award,’ said LeFebvre. ‘I am passionate about growing the next generation of print professionals and proudly support Girls Who Print. I believe in its importance to the industry now and in the future.’

The pinnacle 2024 Girls Who Print Girlie Award for leadership and community service was presented to Christine Hagopian, president of Printing Industries of New England (PINE). For the past 18 years, she has played a pivotal role in helping her membership thrive in an evolving marketplace through educational initiatives, networking opportunities, and resources that foster growth and innovation.

Hagopian is a staunch supporter of women in the industry, producing and hosting an annual event providing women and allies an opportunity to network and strengthen their relationships, hear from speakers on relevant topics and feel supported by their regional organization.

‘I am honored to be the 2024 Girls Who Print Girlie Award recipient,’ said Hagopian. ‘As the first female president in PINE’s 137 years, it is with pride and passion that I lead this organization and the amazing team at PINE. I work on behalf of our membership without question or hesitation, and to be recognized for that is truly humbling.’

‘The 2024 Girls Who Print Day award recipients stand out for their dedication to the industry and the company, customers, and members they serve,’ said Deborah Corn, president of Girls Who Print. ‘On top of that is their dedication to supporting women across their careers in print, making the industry more welcoming for women and students, giving back to their communities, and advocating the Girls Who Print’s mission to “Empower Long and Prosper” through their partnership.’