The National Paper Trade Association (NPTA), Chicago, Ill., USA, has presented the 2018 Stanley O. Styles Industry Excellence Award to Tom O'Connor Jr., chairman and CEO of Mohawk Fine Papers, Cohoes, N.Y. With more than 30 years in the industry, O'Connor's tremendous amount of institutional knowledge, creative approach, and leadership make him deserving of NPTA's highest honor.

O'Connor began his career with Mohawk Fine Papers in 1986 after graduating from Northeastern University in Boston, Mass. In 2004, he was named chairman and CEO, and since then has morphed Mohawk Fine Papers into the largest privately-owned manufacturer of fine papers and envelopes. Additionally, he has lead the company into new areas of growth through strategic business initiatives.

O'Connor is a former NPTA chairman and has served on the boards of American Forest and Paper Association (AF&PA), St. Gregory's School, and the Advisory Board of M&T Bank. He is also a former member of The Capital Region Economic Development Council (CREDC).

"Tom's contributions to the paper industry certainly deserve recognition at the highest level the industry bestows. His stewardship of Mohawk Paper and their continuing leadership in the text and cover segment of the paper industry speak volumes to his dedication to our industry," said David Butler, president, Butler-Dearden.

Morris Dennis, CEO, Dennis Paper Co., Nashville, Tenn., noted that "Tom's commitment, passion and integrity to the fine paper industry and his community has been next to none." 

William C. Meany, president, Lindenmeyr Munroe, Purchase, N.Y., added that "Tom is an admired leader within our industry and has led Mohawk Paper with distinction. He has been innovative in his approach to markets, products, and customers. He has continued to grow the Mohawk business and has expanded into a variety of ancillary businesses to maintain his organization’s position in the industry. His vision, creativity, and approach continue to position Mohawk as one of the most admired companies in our business." 

O'Connor will accept the 2018 Stanley O. Styles Industry Excellence Award at Paper2018, which will be held at the Lotte New York Palace in New York City, March 11-13, 2018. He will be presented with the award at Paper2018's luncheon on Tuesday, March 13. Donations to honor O'Connor can be made to the Paper and Plastics Education Research (PAPER) Foundation 2018 Scholarship Program.

The National Paper Trade Association, founded in 1903, is the association for the $50-plus billion paper distribution industry. More information about NPTA is available online.