Growing up in Hungary, Laszlo Horvath, Ph.D., began his lifelong love affair with wood by helping to build high-end, custom pieces for his father’s small furniture company. But, it wasn’t until he began his wood engineering studies at the University of West Hungary that he discovered his true passion: the mechanics of structure and design.

He’s now living his dream as an Assistant Professor and Director of the Center for Packaging and Unit Load Design at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech). One of his tasks since starting at the university in 2010? Create a new TAPPI Student Chapter to help facilitate students’ industry knowledge and networking abilities.

 

"We already have a strong connection with local corrugated and paperboard companies such as PCA, Corrugated Containers, and Carded Graphics, and we are hoping that building an active and strong club will help students gain additional connections in the industry," he said.

Find out more by reading this month’s Member Spotlight. Spotlight participants are recommended by fellow members and staff. If you would like to nominate a member, just send his or her name (or names) to MemberSpotlight@tappi.org. We will forward a Spotlight Questionnaire to fill out and return.  

We look forward to seeing you in the Spotlight!