This is GraphEx

A celebration of extraordinary work—and the people who make it possible.

Meet the 2026 Executives of the Year

2026 Executive KS/MO

Pat Maher

As a third-generation leader of Allied Litho, Pat Maher carries forward a legacy that began in 1949. Growing up on the shop floor, Pat learned the business from the ground up, turning early tasks into a lifelong passion for print. His career gained momentum in sales, where his ability to connect with customers expanded Allied’s market presence. Recognizing that packaging and large-format printing would shape the future, Pat led bold investments in specialized 73-inch and 56-inch presses, followed by a seven-color KBA press in 2019. After purchasing the remaining shares from his cousin, Pat now holds full ownership of the family-founded company. Outside the office, Pat is an avid golfer and baseball fan who supports the Kansas City Royals Foundation. He is committed to philanthropy, donating printing services to veteran-focused organizations like Red White and Bluma. Above all, Pat is a leader who cares for his employees, ensuring Allied Litho continues to earn industry respect.

2026 Executive OK/TX

John Abbott

John Abbott is the President and Founder of Abbott Label, a Dallas-based wholesale manufacturer with additional facilities in Illinois, Georgia, Tennessee, and Arizona. Since 1978, John has built a career defined by integrity and innovation. In 2000, he founded Abbott Label with a vision to provide high-quality solutions exclusively to the trade, growing the company into the nation’s largest trade-only converter. Under his leadership, Abbott Label has earned a reputation for technical excellence and responsiveness. John drives strategic growth by fostering partnerships with key industry leaders and vendor partners. His philosophy emphasizes investing in people and mentoring others, guided by his core values of God, family, health, and work. Respected for his steady leadership and deep industry knowledge, John remains committed to the loyalty and respect he brings to both his professional and personal life, valuing the deep-rooted connections he has forged over four decades.

A Celebration of Those Who Make It Possible

2026 Print Champion KS/MO

Melissa Dupin

Alpine-Litho Graphics

Melissa Dupin began her career in the printing industry on September 1, 1990, at a time when office management was narrowly defined, and technology was limited. Over the past 35 years, as the company evolved and expanded, so did Melissa’s role—growing from essential office support to serving today as both Chief Financial Officer and Vice President. Throughout her career, Melissa has been a cornerstone of the company’s success, balancing strategic leadership with hands-on involvement. Her day-to-day responsibilities span customer service and direct client interaction, estimating, pricing, vendor sourcing, and presenting detailed quotes to customers. Melissa introduced and continues to manage employee healthcare and retirement benefit programs, researching options and negotiating contracts for the best coverage for employees. Melissa Dupin exemplifies what it means to be a Print Champion: a trusted leader, a dedicated client advocate, and a steady force whose commitment, adaptability, and integrity have made a lasting impact on both Alpine Litho-Graphics and the communities we serve.