IAPHC Announces the
2004 International Craftsman of the Year
Raymond V. Rafalowski

The International Craftsman of the Year award is presented annually to that Craftsman who best exemplifies the ideals, spirit, and standards of Craftsmanship; who has served our organization in an outstanding manner; and who is recognized for their leadership, and contribution to our industry and our association. 

Many dedicated individuals have received this award over the years, people who are all deserving of great recognition, for their personal and professional contributions toward the betterment of this association as a whole. Many more of these same selfless Craftsmen have been nominated.

A true International Craftsman shows leadership by accepting responsibility and by encouraging new concepts and models, and possesses a full understanding of the sheer complexity within the IAPHC.

The 2004 award recipient has belonged to numerous industry associations and has chosen the IAPHC his primary focus for the past 30 years.

Through a remarkable contribution of personal time, including International Gallery Judge, International Bulletin Judge, traveling to clubs, districts and international meetings this year's Craftsman of the Year has an in-depth understanding of the work done by the Chairs, as well as the Board of Governors, the Executive Officers, Headquarters staff, and each volunteer member in every club.

Raymond V. Rafalowski, our one and only Polish Prince was personally responsible for instigating contact with and sponsor support from 7 supplier companies totaling $ 87,000.00 toward the programs of the IAPHC. Thousands more dollars were never requested as reimbursement for travel or expenses, while he visited with the clubs and districts of the IAPHC over a 5 year period while in office as International Secretary/Treasurer, Vice Chairman, Chairman and 2 years as Advisory Chair to the International Board of Governors. Ray continues to travel, and support the international association.

Through his broad ranging personal and professional experiences, Ray exemplifies the ideals that anyone can do well when they are supported by others.

Motivation through Communication:
Ray was the first International Chairman to commit to reaching out to every member of the IAPHC on an every month basis through his messages distributed to the club bulletin editors. He encouraged, challenged, and praised. He supplied a voice of the IAPHC and was committed to sharing knowledge through eloquent regular communication with all members as an International Executive Officer.

Guidance through Experience:
Ray has been judge of the Gallery of Superb Printing several times, and offered insight into the process through his experience as a PIA judge. Additionally, Ray single handedly guaranteed that the International Gallery had a Best of Show sponsor for the premier program we have become so dependent upon to operate our association.

CraftNet Connection from Sponsor Contribution:
Without the continued support of our sponsors CraftNet would not have received the financial backing required to give our membership the benefits of our current website. With 25% of the sponsor income designated toward CraftNet development, Ray has helped a dream come to fruition and to ensure its continued growth.

Membership Sales 101:
Ray optimized the "We must ask for the order", on a personal and individual basis to every contact we have in the graphic arts. We have new members simply because Ray asked them.

Knowledge Networked:
Often times we have witnessed Ray's comments and/or contributions to the Y'KNOW requests received from members and business associates alike. Through his employment experience with Enovation, many technical or business questions received Ray's personal response epitomizing the 85 year old motto of our
association, "Share Your Knowledge".

The International Craftsman of the Year Award is the highest honor the IAPHC presents to an individual.
The 2003-04 International Board of Governors and Executive Officers recognized the financial, personal and professional contributions made for the betterment of this association as a whole, by a dedicated, selfless Craftsman and has wisely chosen this year's recipient.

The 2004 IAPHC International Craftsman of the Year.
Raymond V. Rafalowski