Romano (pictured), emeritus professor at the Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) and author of over 45 books about print and publishing, is just third person revealed to be receiving the honour at Ipex 2010, which event organisers are attributing to his “contribution to education in the print industry”.

“Many people have nominated him and it is easy to see why,” said event director Trevor Crawford. “For decades, he has played an important role in advancing knowledge of print both within and outside of the industry through his books, publications and appearances in consumer media.

“What’s more, his work in educating the next generation will help to retain and widen the skills pool so that the industry can continue to recruit bright talent.”

“I am delighted to receive this award,” said Romano. “Print has survived many challenges in the past, and I believe that new technological developments will continue to offer many opportunities for printers to prosper in the future.”

Renowned for his love of print and an avid collector of rare books on the subject, Romano authored the Encyclopedia of Graphic Communications with his son Richard.

The ‘Champions in Print’ Awards were launched in April 2008 to “honour individuals who have influenced and shaped the printing industry across the world”.

Winners are announced every quarter in the run-up to Ipex 2010, which will take place from the 18th to the 25th of May in Birmingham. Indigo founder and industry pioneer Benny Landa, and J.K Rowling, author of the top-selling Harry Potter novels, have also been announced as Award recipients thus far.

The next winner will be announced in June.

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