PGSF Grant Report of Activities and Accomplishments–Amanda Bridges

Grant award testimonial from Amanda Bridges, Clemson University, September 2025

I received a $1,000.00 travel award from PGSF to attend the 2025 GCEA 100^th Annual Conference titled “Navigating the Future: Prospects, Pathways, Possibilities” held in Alpharetta, GA July 20-23, 2025. The grant funds were used to purchase my annual membership to the GCEA organization, the conference fee, and my hotel stay.

Activities during the conference began Sunday afternoon with a pre-conference board meeting followed by a welcome reception. Monday, we spent the day at the HP Experience Center, where we heard an excellent presentation from Bob Raus, followed by a tour of the facility. We also heard several presentations from colleagues and industry professionals. The day wrapped up with a 100-year GCEA Celebration Banquet where we recognized accomplishments from our members. Tuesday began with a trip to Heidelberg North America where we started our visit with a tour of the facility followed by keynote speakers Clarence Penge and Jan Steiner. The day concluded with additional presentations from colleagues. Our final day we were back at HP for colleague presentations and a preview of next year’s conference to be held at Pitt State. The conference ended with the induction of new GCEA officers. 

I had several goals for what I hoped to accomplish at this conference. The first was to be inducted as President of the organization for the 2025-26 year. It was important for me to have conversations with other board members, current and new members, as well as our PGSF partners to begin to define goals for GCEA going forward and what benefits, resources, and outcomes members would like to receive from the organization. Upon returning from the conference, I believe I have a better understanding of what my role as President is and what kinds of changes and updates are needed, in addition to identifying areas where we just need to stay the course.

Another goal for this conference was to hear from colleagues from other schools and universities regarding current activities in their classrooms. Much of the presentations focused on artificial intelligence (AI) which was very helpful for me as I am currently conducting research in AI teaching strategies for graphic communications educators and educators in general. With tours of both the HP Experience Center and Heidelberg, I was able to see the latest trends in print technology, including AI, automation, and production. In addition, I had the opportunity to make some meaningful industry connections that I plan to take back to my department at Clemson with the intent of establishing and continuing important industry partnerships. 

Overall, this was an incredibly valuable experience and was my favorite GCEA conference yet. I am grateful to PGSF for supporting educators and providing faculty travel funds to help us grow as we continue to navigate the changing landscape of graphic communications and prepare our students for their futures.