We eagerly anticipate the upcoming celebration of our Print Excellence Awards, where we will recognize outstanding achievements in print across our four regions.
These events promise to be a vibrant gathering of industry professionals, enthusiasts, and leaders, fostering a sense of camaraderie and celebrating creativity and innovation within the print realm. The anticipation is building, and we can't wait to come together to applaud exceptional work, create new connections and collectively celebrate the remarkable individuals shaping the future of print.
Alongside honoring PEA contest winners, we're excited to pay tribute to distinguished individuals who have made significant contributions to the print community. This week, we congratulate our Southern Region special awards recipients.
Since 1963, the Southern Region Printing Week Council, in collaboration with the Cincinnati Litho Club, has recognized a Printer of the Year. The nominee should be actively engaged in any field of the graphic arts industry, have at least 15 years of experience and have distinguished himself/herself with contributions to the industry. Additionally, the nominee should be involved in the community and/or civic affairs.
This year, we are pleased to announce Cathy Lindemann of Evolution creative solutions as the 2025 Printer of the Year!
Cathy Lindemann, President of Evolution creative solutions, is a visionary leader, creative problem solver, and passionate advocate for the printing and graphic communications industry. With a career dedicated to helping businesses elevate their brands through innovative print, promotional, apparel, and marketing solutions, Cathy has built Evolution creative solutions into a premier, award-winning company that consistently delivers exceptional quality and bold creative solutions.
Under Cathy’s leadership, Evolution creative solutions has been recognized twice as WBEC Ohio River Valley’s WBE Supplier of the Year and is a multi-year recipient of Graphic Design USA and Graphic Media Alliance awards. She has cultivated a company culture centered on integrity, creativity, and collaboration, ensuring that each client benefits from personalized service, cutting-edge print technology, and a strategic approach to branding. By fostering genuine connections and delivering customized, high-impact solutions, Cathy has positioned Evolution as a trusted partner for organizations of all sizes.
Beyond her business success, Cathy is a dedicated champion of the printing industry and an influential leader within Graphic Media Alliance (GMA). She serves on the Southern Region Advisory Council, playing a pivotal role in shaping the future of the association and ensuring it remains a powerful resource for printers across the region. As a trusted voice within GMA, she contributes strategic insights, mentorship, and advocacy, helping to strengthen industry education, workforce development, and the overall health of the printing community.
Cathy’s leadership extends into the broader business community, where she is a staunch advocate for economic inclusion, women’s entrepreneurship, and workforce development. She serves as a board member for the City of Cincinnati Economic Inclusion Advocacy & Accountability Board, a forum member of WBENC, a Business Advisor for the 10KSB Goldman Sachs Program at Cincinnati State Technology College. Additionally, she is a founding member of WISe Wellness Guild, an organization dedicated to empowering women in leadership and business.
Outside of her professional accomplishments, Cathy finds great joy and support in her personal life, particularly through her husband, Charley Lindemann. Charley has been an unwavering source of encouragement throughout her journey, sharing in her commitment to personal and professional growth. Their partnership is a testament to the power of mutual support, respect, and shared ambition, helping Cathy excel as both a business leader and a trusted mentor to others.
For her exceptional leadership, commitment to innovation, and tireless advocacy for the printing industry, Cathy Lindemann is honored as the 2025 Printer of the Year. Her work continues to inspire, empower, and elevate both the print industry and the business community at large.
The William Maxwell Award is given to a graphic arts organization that has distinguished itself in the manner of the city’s first printer, William Maxwell. The organization should be forward-thinking, a market leader, and recognizable for its industry and local community contributions. The recipient of the 38th William Maxwell Award is Innomark Communications.
Since its founding in 1991, Innomark Communications has been a trailblazer in the visual marketing and retail solutions industry. With a steadfast commitment to excellence, the company has grown into a nationwide leader, providing cutting-edge, end-to-end marketing solutions for some of the world’s most recognized brands. Headquartered in Ohio, with production facilities in Indiana and additional design and customer support centers in California and Pennsylvania, Innomark delivers a seamless, integrated experience for its clients across the retail, beauty, consumer goods, and automotive sectors.
Innomark's success is built on its dedication to innovation and creative excellence. The company offers a comprehensive suite of services, from conceptual creative and structural design to engineering, manufacturing, and fulfillment. Its in-house capabilities enable clients to achieve brand consistency and maximize consumer engagement through dynamic in-store displays, packaging solutions, and retail décor. By blending artistry with strategic execution, Innomark ensures that every project meets the highest industry standards and leaves a lasting impression on the marketplace.
A hallmark of Innomark’s success is its investment in cutting-edge technology. The company continuously enhances its capabilities by integrating state-of-the-art printing, fabrication, and digital solutions into its workflow. Advanced digital printing, high-speed prototyping, and precision engineering allow for greater customization and efficiency, ensuring that clients receive innovative and cost-effective marketing solutions. This commitment to staying ahead of industry trends has positioned Innomark as a preferred partner for brands looking to elevate their retail presence.
Beyond its technical expertise, Innomark is deeply committed to sustainability and responsible manufacturing practices. Recognizing the growing importance of environmental stewardship, the company incorporates eco-friendly materials, energy-efficient production processes, and waste-reduction initiatives across its operations. By prioritizing sustainable sourcing and recyclable packaging solutions, Innomark helps clients achieve their environmental goals without compromising quality or impact.
Collaboration and customer service are at the heart of Innomark’s philosophy. The company takes a consultative approach to every project, working closely with clients to understand their unique needs and challenges. Whether developing a custom retail experience or executing a large-scale national rollout, Innomark’s team of designers, engineers, and production specialists delivers innovative solutions tailored to each brand’s vision. This customer-centric approach has fostered long-standing partnerships and a reputation for excellence in the industry.
As the retail landscape evolves, Innomark continues to push boundaries and redefine what’s possible in visual marketing. With a strong foundation of creativity, technology, and sustainability, the company remains dedicated to helping brands captivate audiences, enhance shopper experiences, and drive results.
Its ability to adapt and lead in an ever-changing marketplace ensures that Innomark will remain an industry innovator for years to come.
Receiving the 2025 Maxwell Award is a testament to Innomark Communications’ enduring impact on the graphic communications industry. This recognition highlights the company’s leadership in advancing marketing technologies, its unwavering commitment to sustainability, and its role in shaping the future of brand engagement. As Innomark celebrates over three decades of success, it continues to set new standards of excellence, proving that innovation and responsibility can go hand in hand.
We look forward to you joining us at The Backstage Event Center on Thursday, February 27 to honor these well-deserving award winners! Registration details can be found below.
Southern Region - February 27 from 6:00 - 9:00 pm
The Backstage Event Center
625 Walnut St., Cincinnati, OH 45202
Registration is $75 / Non-members is $120
Join us at the annual Southern Region reception to celebrate the winners of the Print Excellence Awards and cast your vote for the People's Choice Award. We'll also be recognizing the company that has received the 38th Maxwell Award and unveiling the 2025 Printer of the Year.
We will be featuring a delicious buffet of heavy hors d'oeuvres as well as great beer and wine.
Central Region - March 6 from 6:00 - 9:00pm
Brick & Mortar
580 N 4th St, Columbus, OH 43215
Registration is $75 / Non-members is $120
Join us at the Central Region reception as we pay tribute to the winners of the Print Excellence Awards. Be part of the celebration not only for the outstanding print achievements but also to applaud the recipient of the prestigious 2025 Franklinton Award. Your presence will make the evening truly special!
We will be featuring a delicious buffet of heavy hors d'oeuvres as well as great beer and wine.
Northern Region - March 13 from 6:00 - 9:00 pm
New location this year!
Lakeside at Nuevo
1000 E 9th St., Cleveland, OH 44114
Registration is $75 / Non-members is $120
Experience the perfect blend of enjoyment and recognition at the Northern Region event. Beyond honoring the Print Excellence Awards winner, we will also be inducting a distinguished new member into the Hall of Distinction. This promises to be the pinnacle of the print scene – an event not to be overlooked!
We will be featuring a delicious buffet of heavy hors d'oeuvres as well as great beer and wine.
Michigan Region - March 20 from 6:00 - 9:00 pm
New location this year!
Atheneum Suite Hotel
1000 Brush St., Detroit, MI 48226
Registration is $75 / Non-members is $120
Join us in commemorating the Print Excellence Awards winners in Michigan. Be there to discover the outstanding printed pieces that clinched gold, silver, and bronze, and find out which companies will be honored with the Best of Region title and the coveted People's Choice Award. Don't miss this opportunity to witness excellence in print!